A review on ayurvedic prospective and curative herbs for type ii diabetes
Journal name: Ayushdhara
Original article title: A review on ayurvedic prospective and curative herbs for type ii diabetes
AYUSHDHARA is an international peer-reviewed journal. It focuses on research in Ayurveda, Yoga, Unani, Siddha, Homeopathy, Allopathy, and Pharmaceutical Sciences.
This page presents a generated summary with additional references; See source (below) for actual content.
Summary of article contents:
Introduction
Diabetes mellitus, particularly Type II diabetes, has reached epidemic proportions worldwide, with India having over 50 million sufferers, making it the diabetes capital of the world. This metabolic disorder presents significant health challenges, but it is believed that timely detection and proper management can help patients maintain a normal life. The increasing prevalence of diabetes highlights the need for effective treatment strategies. While synthetic medications are available, many patients prefer herbal remedies due to fewer side effects, drawing attention to the role of traditional systems like Ayurveda in diabetes management.
Ayurvedic Perspective on Diabetes
Ayurveda offers a holistic approach to managing diabetes, recognizing conditions such as 'Prameha' and 'Madhumeha' that resemble Type II diabetes. According to Maharishi Charak, diabetes comprises various forms of 'Prameha,' with 'Madhumeha' being directly comparable to modern Type II diabetes due to its clinical features. Ayurvedic texts detail a variety of herbal remedies categorized based on their properties and intended actions. The research conducted by the authors reviewed over 2000 herbs and identified 53 that demonstrated significant anti-diabetic activity. This connection between Ayurveda and modern pharmacological findings serves to validate the effectiveness of traditional treatments for diabetes management.
Research Findings and Herbal Selection
Extensive research identified multiple herbal candidates with anti-diabetic properties. Herbs such as Aegle marmelos, Allium sativum, and Gymnema sylvestre have shown promise in reducing blood glucose levels and enhancing insulin secretion in various studies. The authors found that the phytochemical compositions of these plants, along with their traditional medicinal uses, support their application in treating diabetes. The research further emphasizes the importance of thorough exploration of both single herbs and compound formulations, which have been historically prescribed in Ayurveda for diabetes management, paving the way for potential new drug development.
Conclusion
This review highlights the promising role of Ayurvedic herbs in managing Type II diabetes by integrating traditional knowledge with modern scientific research. The findings support the hypothesis that many Ayurvedic medicines possess anti-diabetic properties, meriting further investigation into their efficacy and application. The authors call upon the research community to explore the potential of novel drug development within the AYUSH system, inspired by successful herbal formulations like AYUSH 82 and BGR 34. This research not only preserves traditional wisdom but also expands the therapeutic landscape for diabetes management, ultimately contributing to improved health outcomes for affected patients.
Original source:
This page is merely a summary which is automatically generated hence you should visit the source to read the original article which includes the author, publication date, notes and references.
*Kurele Rajeev kumar
Manager QC, QA and F&D, Person-in-charge, AYUSH DTL (Govt. Approved Lab.), Indian Medicines Pharmaceutical Corporation Limited, Mohan, Ramnagar, Almora, Uttrakhand
Sukirti Upadhyay
School 0f Pharmaceutical Sciences, IFTM University, Moradabad, Uttar Pradesh
Prashant Upadhyay
School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, IFTM University, Moradabad, Uttar Pradesh
KS Rohit
Research Officer (RO), RARISD (CCRAS, Govt of India Unit) Ahmedabad
Pawar Gajana
Research Officer (RO), RARI (CCRAS, Govt of India Unit) Jhansi
B Srinivasulu
Reader, Kunwar Shekhar Vijendra Ayurved Medical College and Research Centre, Gangoh, Saharanpur, Uttar Pradesh
Ayushdhara:
(A peer-reviewed, bi-monthly open-access journal)
Full text available for: A review on ayurvedic prospective and curative herbs for type ii diabetes
Year: 2017
Copyright (license): CC BY-NC-SA 4.0
Download the PDF file of the original publication
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What is the significance of herbs in managing Type II diabetes?
Herbs can offer alternative treatment options for managing Type II diabetes. The review highlights 53 herbs with significant anti-diabetic properties supported by pharmacological studies, emphasizing the potential of herbal remedies alongside conventional treatments.
Which Ayurvedic texts were referenced for exploring anti-diabetic properties?
The study extensively reviewed Ayurvedic texts such as 'Bhavprakash Nighantu' and the Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India, identifying numerous single and compound drugs that exhibit 'Pramehaghna' activity, which is associated with managing diabetes.
What are some examples of herbs effective against Type II diabetes?
Examples include Aegle marmelos, Gymnema sylvestre, and Eugenia jambolana. These herbs demonstrated hypoglycemic effects in various studies, indicating their potential use in diabetes management and validation of traditional knowledge with modern research.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “A review on ayurvedic prospective and curative herbs for type ii diabetes”. 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) Prameha:
Prameha is a term used in Ayurvedic medicine to describe a group of urinary disorders, which includes conditions like diabetes mellitus. The word consists of two parts, 'Pra' and 'Meha', signifying frequent urination.
2) India:
India is referred to as the diabetes capital of the world, with a significant number of people suffering from type-2 diabetes. It also has a rich tradition of Ayurvedic medicine, which includes treatments for diabetes using natural herbs.
3) Drug:
Several Ayurvedic herbs have been identified as having anti-diabetic properties. Examples include Aegle marmelos, Allium cepa, and Momordica charantia. These can be used in preparing effective anti-diabetic formulations.
4) Blood:
Blood sugar levels are a primary focus in the treatment of diabetes. Many of the identified Ayurvedic herbs show hypoglycemic activity, which means they help in lowering the blood glucose levels.
5) Beta:
Beta cells of the pancreas are responsible for producing insulin. Some of the herbs mentioned, such as Allium sativum, increase insulin release from pancreatic beta cells.
6) Ayus (Ayush):
AYUSH stands for Ayurveda, Yoga & Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha, and Homoeopathy. It is a system of traditional medicine practiced in India, and research under AYUSH involves the development of new drugs for managing diseases like diabetes.
7) Medicine:
Ayurvedic medicine uses herbs with medicinal properties for the treatment of various diseases, including diabetes. These medicinal plants are often described in classical texts like Bhavprakash Nighantu.
8) Sugar:
High blood sugar is a characteristic of diabetes mellitus. Several herbs listed in the review have shown the ability to regulate blood sugar levels and improve insulin sensitivity.
9) Ajadugdha (Aja-dugdha):
Ajadugdha refers to goat's milk and is often used as an adjunct or carrier for certain Ayurvedic medicines and formulations.
10) Godugdha:
Godugdha means cow's milk and it is also used as a carrier for many Ayurvedic formulations to treat diseases, including diabetes.
11) Disease:
In the context of this text, diabetes is the disease under discussion. It is specifically linked to type II diabetes mellitus, which is identified with Prameha in Ayurvedic literature.
12) Momordica charantia:
Momordica charantia, also known as bitter gourd, is a plant with significant hypoglycemic effects. It is commonly used in traditional medicine to manage blood sugar levels in diabetes.
13) Triphala (Tri-phala):
Triphala is an Ayurvedic formulation made of three fruits. It is often used in various Ayurvedic treatments, including those for diabetes, due to its multiple health benefits.
14) Animal:
Various animal models, such as rats and rabbits, are used for in-vivo studies to test the efficacy of herbs in regulating blood glucose levels and treating diabetes.
15) Indian:
Indian context is critical as it provides a rich background for the study and application of Ayurvedic medicine, particularly in the treatment of chronic diseases like diabetes.
16) Kumar:
Kumar refers to Rajeev Kumar Kurele, one of the authors of the review article on Ayurvedic herbs for type II diabetes.
17) Meha:
Meha is derived from 'Meh,' which means to urinate. The prefix 'Pra' forms 'Prameha,' a condition involving excessive urination and is identified with diabetes in Ayurveda.
18) Trigonella foenum-graecum:
Trigonella foenum-graecum, commonly known as fenugreek, has been shown to have hypoglycemic activity and is mentioned in Ayurvedic texts for its 'Madhumeha' (diabetes) treating properties.
19) Mangifera indica:
Mangifera indica, commonly known as mango, has extracts that exhibit hypoglycemic activity. It is traditionally used in Indian folk medicine to manage diabetes.
20) Hordeum vulgare:
Hordeum vulgare, or barley, shows hypoglycemic and hyperinsulinemic effects, making it suitable for managing diabetes mellitus.
21) Syzygium cumini:
Syzygium cumini, also known as Jamun, exhibits hypoglycemic effects and is used in treating Prameha, including Madhumeha.
22) Fenugreek:
Fenugreek seeds, containing 4-hydroxyleucine, have shown to increase glucose-stimulated insulin release, thereby helping to manage diabetes in both animals and humans.
23) Nighantu (Nighamtu):
Nighantu refers to Ayurvedic lexicons or glossaries. Bhavprakash Nighantu is one such text mentioned as a reference for the anti-diabetic properties of herbs.
24) Cinnamon:
Cinnamon, specifically Cinnamomum zeylanicum, enhances insulin release and has been shown to improve glucose uptake in peripheral tissues.
25) Amalaki:
Amalaki, or Indian gooseberry, is used in Ayurvedic medicine for Prameha. It is one of the single drugs recommended for managing diabetes.
26) Vishala (Visala):
Vishala is a component used in certain Ayurvedic decoctions for its drastic purgative properties, aiding in the treatment of Prameha when indicated.
27) Bhasma (Bhasman):
Bhasma refers to calcined preparations in Ayurvedic medicine, often made from metals or herbs, and are used in various formulations to treat diseases including diabetes.
28) Ghrita (Ghrta):
Ghrita refers to medicated ghee, used in several Ayurvedic formulations for therapeutic purposes, including the management of diabetes. Examples include Dhanvantara ghrita.
29) Jamun:
Jamun or Syzygium cumini is an Ayurvedic herb mentioned for its effective anti-diabetic properties, helping in the management of conditions like Madhumeha.
30) Loha:
Loha refers to iron or iron-based compounds used in Ayurvedic medicine, often as bhasma, in various formulations to treat conditions including Prameha.
31) Rasa (Rasha):
Rasa in Ayurvedic context can refer to a sense, essence, or taste. It is also used in compound names like Meghanada Rasa, which are Ayurvedic formulations.
32) Azadirachta indica:
Azadirachta indica or Neem shows hypoglycemic activity and is mentioned in Ayurvedic texts for its use in managing Prameha.
33) Ocimum sanctum:
Ocimum sanctum, also known as holy basil or Tulsi, demonstrates significant hypoglycemic activities, beneficial in managing diabetes.
34) Pharmacological:
Pharmacological studies in the review mention the screening of various herbs for their anti-diabetic activity, conducted through in-vivo experiments.
35) Aegle marmelos:
Aegle marmelos, also known as Bel, improves digestion and lowers blood sugar levels, making it beneficial for diabetes management.
36) Flavonoid:
Flavonoids, such as those found in Psidium guajava, improve insulin sensitivity and have been used in the clinical treatment of diabetes.
37) Ayurveda (Ayus-veda):
Ayurveda is a traditional system of medicine from India, involving natural remedies and holistic practices to treat various diseases, including diabetes.
38) Sanskrit:
Sanskrit is the classical language in which ancient Ayurvedic texts are written. Terms like Prameha and Madhumeha are derived from Sanskrit.
39) Cikitsa:
Cikitsa refers to treatment or therapy in Ayurveda. For diabetes, Ayurvedic texts describe various herbs and formulations used in 'Prameha chikitsa.'
40) Parada:
Parada is purified mercury, used in certain Ayurvedic preparations like Meghanada Rasa for its therapeutic properties in managing diseases including Prameha.
41) Bitter:
Bitter herbs like Momordica charantia or bitter gourd, have hypoglycemic effects and are commonly used in Ayurvedic remedies for diabetes.
42) Powder:
In Ayurvedic medicine, medicinal plants are often used in powdered form, such as the powdered seeds of Mucuna pruriens, for treating diabetes.
43) Dosha (Dosa):
Doshas are the bio-energies in Ayurveda. Diabetes-related conditions like Prameha are often linked to imbalances in the doshas, particularly Vata, Pitta, and Kapha.
44) Bimbi:
Bimbi is the Sanskrit name for Coccinia indica, which has been shown to have anti-diabetic properties, useful in managing Madhumeha.
45) Darvi:
Darvi refers to Berberis aristata or Indian Barberry, used in preparing Ayurvedic decoctions for diabetes management.
46) Musta (Mushta):
Musta is Cyperus rotundus, a plant used in Ayurvedic decoctions and formulations for its health benefits, including diabetes treatment.
47) Diet:
Diet is crucial in managing diabetes. Ayurvedic treatment often includes dietary recommendations to balance doshas and improve health.
48) Tinospora cordifolia:
Tinospora cordifolia, also known as Guduchi, shows anti-diabetic activity and is used in Ayurvedic medicine to manage Prameha.
49) Curcuma longa:
Curcuma longa, or turmeric, used in single drug therapy, has beneficial effects for diabetes, as described by 'Acharya/Vagbhat' in ancient texts.
50) Bitter gourd:
Bitter gourd or Momordica charantia is known for its hypoglycemic effect, making it a popular remedy in Ayurvedic treatments for diabetes.
51) Human body:
Diabetes and its impact on the human body are significant concerns in Ayurveda. Various herbs are used to modulate bodily functions and manage diabetic conditions.
52) Vajikaranadhikara (Vajikarana-adhikara):
Vajikarana-adhikara refers to the chapter dealing with aphrodisiacs and reproductive health in Ayurvedic texts. However, some herbs here may have roles in overall vitality and health, including diabetes.
53) Dhanvantaraghrita (Dhanvantaraghrta, Dhanvantara-ghrita):
Dhanvantara-ghrita is a medicated ghee preparation, used in Ayurveda for various treatments including diabetes.
54) Mimusops elengi:
Mimusops elengi, used in Ayurvedic formulations, has properties beneficial for treating Prameha, as indicated in classic texts.
55) Meghanadarasa (Meghanada-rasa):
Meghanada-rasa is an Ayurvedic formulation containing Purified Parada and other components, used for treating diabetes.
56) Allium sativum:
Allium sativum, commonly known as garlic, has significant hypoglycemic activity and is used in the management of diabetes through increased hepatic metabolism and insulin release.
57) Candraprabha (Candra-prabha):
Chandraprabha is an Ayurvedic tablet formulation used in the treatment of diabetes, usually taken twice a day with water or milk.
58) Phalatrikadi (Phalatrika-adi):
Phalatrikadi Kwath is a decoction made from Triphala that is used in the management of Prameha or diabetes as per Ayurvedic texts.
59) Dravyaguna (Dravya-guna):
Dravya-guna refers to the properties and actions of medicinal substances in Ayurveda, which are detailed in texts like Bhavprakash Nighantu with respect to anti-diabetic herbs.
60) Nagakesara (Nagakeshara, Naga-kesara):
Nagakeshara, or Mesua ferrea, is an herb used in Ayurvedic formulations like Gokshuradyavaleha for treating Prameha.
61) Samshodhana (Samsodhana):
Samshodhana refers to purification or detoxification therapies in Ayurveda, used for strong and extensive treatments of Prameha.
62) Indravaruni (Indra-varuni, Imdravaruni):
Indravaruni or Citrullus colocynthis has anti-diabetic properties and is mentioned in Ayurvedic texts for Prameha management.
63) Vajikarana:
Vajikarana is a branch of Ayurveda that deals with aphrodisiac therapies but also includes general health treatments, contributing to the overall therapeutic approach to diseases like diabetes.
64) Samshamana (Samsamana):
Samshamana refers to palliation or pacification therapies in Ayurveda, used for patients with diabetes who are weak or debilitated.
65) Vatadosha (Vatadosa, Vata-dosha):
Vata-dosha is one of the three bio-energies in Ayurveda. Imbalanced Vata can lead to conditions like Madhumeha, which resemble type II diabetes.
66) Shilajatu (Silajatu, Shila-jatu):
Shilajatu or purified Shilajeet is used in Ayurvedic formulations for its therapeutic properties, including treating Prameha.
67) Meghanada (Megha-nada):
Meghanada refers to Meghanada Rasa, an Ayurvedic formulation used for managing diabetes, consisting of ingredients like Parada and Gandhaka.
68) Vagbhata:
Vagbhata is an ancient Ayurvedic scholar who authored texts like 'Ashtang Sangrah,' describing treatments for Madhumeha, including the use of turmeric and Amalaki.
69) Mauktika:
Mauktika Kamadugha is an Ayurvedic formulation involving pearls and other ingredients, used in treatments including diabetes management.
70) Gandhaka (Gamdhaka):
Gandhaka refers to sulfur, an element used in various Ayurvedic formulations for treating diseases, including Prameha.
71) Devadaru (Deva-daru):
Devadaru is Cedrus deodara, used in decoctions along with other herbs to manage conditions like Prameha or diabetes.
72) Gokshura (Goksura, Go-kshura):
Gokshura or Tribulus terrestris is an Ayurvedic herb mentioned in classical texts for its use in treating diabetes and Prameha.
73) Adhikara:
Adhikara refers to a chapter or section in an Ayurvedic text. For example, 'Prameha chikitsa' is a section dealing with treatments for diabetes.
74) Pratyaya:
Pratyaya refers to grammatical suffixes in Sanskrit. Here it explains the formation of the word 'Meha' meaning urination, leading to the term 'Prameha.'
75) Rasayana (Rasa-ayana):
Rasayana refers to rejuvenation therapies in Ayurveda. Some Rasayana drugs, like Sudha shilajeet, are used for treating diabetes.
[Note: The above list is limited to 75. Total glossary definitions available: 127]