Role of Abhrakadi Yogam in the Management of Type II Diabetes Mellitus

Glossary definitions and references:

Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Role of Abhrakadi Yogam in the Management of Type II Diabetes Mellitus”. This list explains important keywords that occur in this article and links it to the glossary for a better understanding of that concept in the context of Ayurveda and other topics.

1) Abhrakadi:
Abhrakadi refers to a herbomineral formulation mentioned in the Yoga Ratnakara text. It is used in Ayurveda for managing Prameha, which includes Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus. Its ingredients provide Deepana, Pachana, Rasayana, and other properties, helping normalize sugar levels and overall metabolism.

2) Prameha:
Prameha is an Ayurvedic term describing a spectrum of urinary disorders, often compared with diabetes mellitus. It involves the vitiation of Kapha, Pitta, and other doshas, leading to symptoms such as excessive urination and other systemic issues.[see source text or glossary: Prameha]

3) Blood:
Blood is involved in the pathophysiology of diabetes, where hyperglycemia reflects elevated blood sugar levels. Insulin action and the subsequent metabolic processes are directly implicated in the regulation of blood glucose levels.

4) Dhatu:
Dhatu refers to the seven fundamental tissues in Ayurveda that sustain the body. In the context of diabetes, abnormalities in the process known as Dhatu Parinama, or tissue metabolism, are crucial. Correcting Agni (digestive fire) ensures proper Dhatu Poshana (nourishment).

5) Madhura:
Madhura primarily denotes sweetness in taste or Vipaka (post-digestive effect). In the context of diabetes, the predominance of Madhura Rasa can exacerbate hyperglycemia. Conversely, certain ingredients with Madhura properties (like Abhraka) help normalize various bodily functions.

6) Dosha (Dosa):
Dosha represents the three fundamental bodily humors in Ayurveda: Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. Their balance is vital for health, while their vitiation leads to diseases like diabetes. T 2 DM is often related to Kapha-Pitta dosha disbalance.[see source text or glossary: Dosha]

7) Kapha:
Kapha is one of the three doshas, responsible for structure and lubrication in the body. In Prameha, vitiated Kapha combines with other Dushyas (affected bodily elements) to obstruct various bodily channels, contributing to symptoms like excessive urination and metabolic imbalances.

8) Vata:
Vata is another dosha associated with movement and communication within the body. In Madhumeha, Vata dosha gets obstructed by vitiated Kapha and Pitta, leading to compromised cellular metabolism and impaired glucose regulation.[see source text or glossary: Vata]

9) Laghu:
Laghu refers to lightness, a quality (Guna) desirable in managing Kapha-related disorders like diabetes. Ingredients with Laghu Guna help in Srotoshodhana (clearing channels), preventing the accumulation of Medas (fat) and other Dushyas.

10) Ushna (Usna):
Ushna means heating potency. Substances with Ushna Virya (heating effect) counteract the cold, heavy qualities of vitiated Kapha, making them useful in Kapha-dominant conditions like T 2 DM. They aid in enhancing digestion and metabolic processes.[see source text or glossary: Ushna]

11) Katu:
Katu denotes a pungent taste, known for its Deepana (digestive fire-kindling) and Pachana (digestive) properties. It helps in breaking down Ama (toxins) and enhancing Agni, thus beneficial in managing diabetes due to its Kapha- and Meda-hara properties.

12) Guna:
Guna refers to the qualities or attributes of substances in Ayurveda, influencing their therapeutic actions. For instance, Laghu (light) and Ruksha (dry) Gunas are crucial in managing Kapha-predominant diseases like diabetes by promoting Srotoshodhana and reducing Medas.

13) Rasayana (Rasa-ayana):
Rasayana refers to rejuvenation therapies in Ayurveda aimed at enhancing overall health and longevity. Ingredients like Abhraka Bhasma are used in Rasayana to improve Dhatu Sarata (tissue quality) and systemic functions, offering benefits in chronic conditions like diabetes.

14) Ruksha (Ruksa):
Ruksha means dryness, a quality that counteracts the moisture-retaining properties of Kapha. Ruksha Guna assists in reducing Kleda (excess moisture) and Medas, making it useful for Srotoshodhana and managing symptoms like polyuria in diabetes.

15) Pitta:
Pitta is the dosha associated with metabolism and transformation. In T 2 DM, Pitta, along with Kapha, may be vitiated, contributing to metabolic imbalances. Correcting Pitta with appropriate herbs helps restore normal metabolism and glucose levels.[see source text or glossary: Pitta]

16) Rasa (Rasha):
Rasa refers to taste as well as essence in Ayurveda. Different Rasas like Katu, Tikta, and Kashaya play crucial roles in managing Prameha (diabetes) by enhancing digestive fire (Agni), clearing Srotas (channels), and removing Dushyas (toxins).[see source text or glossary: Rasa]

17) Disease:
Disease in Ayurveda is often attributed to the imbalance of doshas and the malfunctioning of Agni (digestive fire). In the case of Prameha (diabetes), the imbalance predominantly involves Kapha and Pitta doshas, leading to symptoms like excessive urination and metabolic disorders.

18) Medas (Meda, Medash):
Medas, or fat tissue, becomes vitiated in diabetes, leading to Srotorodha (blockage of channels) and impaired metabolism. Reducing excessive Medas through Lekhana (scraping) and Srotoshodhana (channel-clearing) therapies is crucial for managing the condition.

19) Anulomana:
Anulomana refers to the regulation of the natural flow of Vata dosha, especially in the digestive and excretory systems. In T 2 DM, herbs with Anulomana properties like Hareetaki help maintain regular bowel movements and relieve Viguna Apanavayu (disordered downward-moving Vata).

20) Ayurveda (Ayus-veda):
Ayurveda is an ancient system of medicine from India focusing on a balanced interaction between the body, mind, and environment for health. It offers holistic approaches to managing diseases like diabetes through diet, lifestyle, and herbal formulations like Abhrakadi Yogam.

21) Haridra:
Haridra, known as Curcuma longa or turmeric, is a key ingredient in Abhrakadi Yogam. It has properties like Pramehaghna (diabetes curative), Vishaghna (toxin neutralizer), and Kaphapittanut (balancing Kapha and Pitta), making it beneficial in managing T 2 DM.

22) Kashaya (Kasaya):
Kashaya refers to the astringent taste, known for its Sthambhana (stabilizing) and Ruksha (drying) properties. In Ayurveda, Kashaya taste is used to manage excessive urination and Kleda in conditions like Prameha (diabetes), helping in Srotoshodhana (clearing channels).

23) Dushya (Dusya):
Dushya refers to the bodily elements like Dhatus (tissues) and Malas (waste products) that get vitiated in diseases. In Prameha (diabetes), Dushyas like Medas (fat) and Kleda become vitiated, obstructing channels and contributing to the pathology.

24) Kleda:
Kleda signifies bodily fluids that, when vitiated, contribute to the pathology of diseases like Prameha (diabetes). Managing Kleda through Ruksha (drying) and Sthambhana (stabilizing) herbs helps in controlling symptoms like excessive urination and polyuria.

25) Tridoshahara (Tridosahara, Tridosha-hara):
Tridoshahara denotes substances that balance all three doshas: Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. Ingredients in Abhrakadi Yogam possess Tridoshahara properties, making it effective in managing the systemic imbalance seen in conditions like T 2 DM.

26) Vatadosha (Vatadosa, Vata-dosha):
Vata-dosha is primarily responsible for movement and communication within the body. In Prameha (diabetes), Vata may get obstructed by vitiated Kapha and Pitta, leading to impaired metabolism and cellular function.

27) Vikara:
Vikara represents a pathological condition or disease. In Ayurveda, diabetes or Prameha is seen as a Kapha-Pitta predominated Vikara affecting various bodily processes, requiring specific treatments to restore doshic balance.

28) Vipaka:
Vipaka describes the post-digestive effect of a substance. Katu Vipaka, for instance, helps in Deepana (enhancement of digestive fire) and Pachana (digestion), which are crucial in managing diabetes by optimizing metabolic functions.

29) Srotas (Shrotas):
Srotas are bodily channels through which nutrients and waste products travel. In diabetes, the obstruction (Srotorodha) of these channels by vitiated Medas and Kapha leads to metabolic dysfunctions and necessitates Srotoshodhana (channel-clearing) treatments.

30) Tikta:
Tikta translates to the bitter taste, known for its Deepana (digestive fire-enhancing) and Pachana (digestive) properties. Tikta Rasa is essential in managing Kapha-predominant disorders like diabetes by reducing Ama (toxins) and optimizing metabolism.

31) Virya:
Virya is the potency or inherent power of a substance. Ushna Virya (heating potency) in herbs helps counteract cold, heavy qualities of vitiated Kapha, making it beneficial for managing conditions like diabetes where metabolic enhancement is needed.[see source text or glossary: Virya]

32) Balya:
Balya refers to substances that provide strength and stability. In the context of managing diabetes, Balya herbs like Hareetaki help in countering muscle wasting and emaciation, thereby restoring overall health and vitality.

33) Honey:
Honey is used as an Anupana (adjuvant) in many Ayurvedic formulations. In Abhrakadi Yogam, honey's Lekhana (scraping) property helps in Kleda Shoshana (removing moisture), enhancing the formulation's efficacy in managing diabetes.

34) Madhurarasa (Madhura-rasa):
Madhura-rasa stands for sweet taste, which is generally reduced in diabetes management due to its Kapha-increasing properties. Instead, antagonistic tastes like Katu and Tikta are emphasized for their ability to mitigate hyperglycemia and enhance digestion.

35) Dhatvagni (Dhatu-agni):
Dhatvagni refers to the metabolic fire responsible for the transformation and nourishment of bodily tissues (Dhatus). In diabetes, Dhatvagni is often impaired, necessitating treatments that correct metabolism and improve tissue health.

36) Tridosha (Tridosa, Tri-dosha):
Tridosha represents the three fundamental bodily humors (Vata, Pitta, Kapha) whose balance is essential for health. Disruption of Tridosha, particularly Kapha and Pitta, is a key factor in the pathogenesis of diabetes, requiring multi-faceted treatment approaches.

37) Shoshana (Sosana):
Shoshana means drying, a property useful for reducing excess Kleda (moisture) in the body. Herbs with Shoshana properties help manage symptoms like polyuria and fluid retention in diabetes by absorbing excessive bodily fluids.

38) Parinama:
Parinama refers to the transformation of Dhatus (bodily tissues) in Ayurveda. Impaired Parinama reflects metabolic dysfunctions, as seen in diabetes, where improper tissue conversion leads to systemic imbalances and requires metabolic correction.

39) Kasturi:
[see source text or glossary: Kasthuri]

40) Amalaki:
Amalaki, or Emblica officinalis, is a crucial herb in Abhrakadi Yogam. It has Rasayana properties, aiding in rejuvenation and Dhatu nourishment. Its Sheeta Virya (cooling potency) is beneficial in Pitta-related symptoms like burning sensations related to diabetes.

41) Abhraka:
Abhraka is a mineral ingredient, often used in its bhasma (ash) form in Ayurveda. It is a key component of Abhrakadi Yogam, boasting properties like Rasayana, Tridoshahara, and Deepana, useful for managing metabolic disorders like diabetes.

42) Krishna (Krsna):
Krishna G.S is one of the authors of the review article on the role of Abhrakadi Yogam in the management of Type 2 diabetes mellitus. He contributed to the literature review and analysis of the Ayurvedic formulation's potential efficacy.

43) Samana (Shamana):
Shamana refers to pacifying treatments aimed at reducing symptoms and imbalance in the body. In managing diabetes, Shamana properties help pacify vitiated doshas like Kapha and Pitta, aiding in the restoration of normal metabolic functions.[see source text or glossary: Shamana]

44) Nature:
[see source text or glossary: Nature]

45) Sugar:
Sugar or glucose is the key factor in diabetes management. Elevated blood glucose levels characterize diabetes and are monitored and controlled via dietary, lifestyle, and therapeutic interventions in Ayurveda, including the use of formulations like Abhrakadi Yogam.

46) Agni:
Agni represents the digestive fire crucial for metabolism in Ayurveda. Impaired Agni, particularly Dhatvagni (tissue metabolism), is a central factor in the pathogenesis of Prameha (diabetes), necessitating treatments aimed at igniting and balancing Agni.

47) Drug:
[see source text or glossary: Drug]

48) Terminalia chebula:
Terminalia chebula, also known as Hareetaki, is one of the key ingredients of Abhrakadi Yogam. It has multiple therapeutic properties, including Deepana (digestive stimulant), Pachana (digestive), and Tridoshahara (balances all three doshas), making it effective in diabetes management.

49) Abhrakabhasma (Abhraka-bhasma):
Abhraka-bhasma is the incinerated ash of Biotite, used in Ayurveda for its Rasayana (rejuvenative), Yogavahi (enhancing drug efficacy), and Tridoshahara (balances Vata, Pitta, and Kapha) properties. It plays a crucial role in managing T 2 DM.

50) Dahaprashamana (Dahaprasamana, Daha-prashamana):
Dahaprasamana refers to the property of relieving burning sensations. Amalaki, one of the ingredients in Abhrakadi Yogam, has Dahaprasamana properties, which are beneficial in managing neuropathy or burning sensations in diabetic patients.

51) Kashayanurasa (Kasayanurasa):
Kashayanurasa refers to the post-digestive effect of astringent taste. Kashaya is effective for conditions requiring Sthambhana (stabilization) and drying of excess moisture, beneficial in managing symptoms like polyuria in diabetes management.

52) Kaphadosha (Kaphadosa, Kapha-dosha):
Kapha-dosha is responsible for stability and fluid balance in the body. Its vitiation in diabetes leads to symptoms like excess urination and metabolic imbalances. Treatments aim to pacify Kapha through the use of herbs with Laghu (light) and Ushna (heating) properties.

53) Kaphapitta (Kapha-pitta):
Kapha-pitta represents the dual doshic involvement often seen in diabetes. The metabolic and fluid retention issues arise from the combined vitiation of Kapha (stability, moisture) and Pitta (metabolism, digestion), necessitating specific therapeutic approaches to manage both.

54) Vitiation (Vitiated):
Vitiation refers to the derangement of doshas (Vata, Pitta, Kapha) leading to diseases. In the context of diabetes, Kapha, and Pitta vitiation disrupts metabolic and fluid processes, highlighting the need for therapies to restore dosha balance.

55) Pradhana:
[see source text or glossary: Pradhana]

56) Upadrava:
Upadrava denotes complications or secondary disorders arising from the primary disease. In untreated or poorly managed diabetes (Prameha), complications like neuropathy, retinopathy, and nephropathy can develop, highlighting the need for early and effective treatment.

57) Yogavahin (Yogavahi, Yoga-vahi, Yoga-vahin):
Yogavahi refers to the property of certain herbs that enhance the effectiveness of other drugs. Abhraka Bhasma in Abhrakadi Yogam serves as a Yogavahi, augmenting the benefits of accompanying herbs like Hareetaki and Amalaki in managing diabetes.

58) Lekhana:
Lekhana signifies the scraping property, aiding in the removal of excess fat and toxins. Herbs with Lekhana properties help in clearing obstructed Srotas (channels) and reducing Medas (fat), crucial for managing symptoms and progression of diabetes.

59) Avarana:
Avarana describes the obstruction of Vata dosha by other vitiated elements like Kapha or Pitta. In the context of diabetes, this leads to impaired cellular function and glucose metabolism, necessitating treatments to clear these obstructive factors.

60) Bhasma (Bhasman):
Bhasma refers to the incinerated ash form of metals and minerals used in Ayurveda, known for their therapeutic potency. Abhraka-bhasma in Abhrakadi Yogam has various benefits, including Rasayana (rejuvenative) and Yogavahi (drug-enhancing) properties.

61) Sthana:
Sthana signifies location or seat within the body. In diabetes (Madhumeha), the Basti (bladder) is a significant Sthana affected by the pathological processes involving Doshas and Dushyas, requiring targeted treatments.[see source text or glossary: Sthana]

62) Hridya (Hrdya):
Hridya means beneficial for the heart. Certain ingredients like Hareetaki have Hridya (heart-friendly) properties, contributing to overall cardiovascular health, which is crucial in diabetes management to prevent complications like heart disease.

63) Medhya:
Medhya refers to substances that enhance cognitive functions. Abhraka Bhasma has Medhya properties, improving mental clarity and functioning. This is particularly beneficial for diabetic patients experiencing cognitive decline due to blood sugar imbalances.

64) Vatika:
Vatika type diseases in Ayurveda are primarily Vata dominants, presenting with symptoms like dryness and emaciation. In the context of Prameha (Madhumeha), unmanaged cases can progress to become Vatika, requiring specific Vata-pacifying treatments.

65) Thirst:
Thirst or Trishna is a key symptom in diabetes (Madhumeha). It arises due to the body's attempt to compensate for excessive urination and loss of fluids, highlighting the importance of managing fluid balance through appropriate Ayurvedic treatments.

[Note: The above list is limited to 75. Total glossary definitions available: 145]