Ayurvedic rasausadhis for managing prameha (diabetes mellitus).
Journal name: Ayushdhara
Original article title: Ayurvedic rasausadhies used in the management of prameha w.s.r. to diabetes mellitus
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 (DM) is increasingly recognized as a significant global health concern, characterized by high blood sugar levels resulting from insufficient insulin production or action. The condition manifests through symptoms such as frequent urination, extreme thirst, increased hunger, and fatigue. In Ayurveda, DM is correlated with a condition called Prameha/Madhumeha, which also presents symptoms of excessive and cloudy urine. Ayurvedic treatment encompasses a range of herbal remedies, but Rasausadhies, which are metallic formulations, have been historically noted for their therapeutic efficacy in managing diabetes. Despite their long-standing use, modern scientific validation of these formulations remains incomplete.
Rasausadhies: The Art of Transformation
Rasausadhies have been utilized since the 8th century AD, particularly following the advancements made by the alchemist Nagarjuna. The use of different purification and processing techniques, such as Sodhana (purification) and Marana (incineration), has allowed Ayurvedic practitioners to transform minerals into non-toxic substances suitable for consumption. This conversion process enhances the therapeutic potency of the minerals and metals, making them highly absorbable. These advanced processing techniques have enabled Rasausadhies to occupy a significant role in Ayurvedic medicine, particularly in the management of metabolic disorders like diabetes.
Herbal and Mineral Contributions to Treatment
In Ayurveda, the treatment of Prameha/Madhumeha utilizes a holistic approach by employing various herbal, mineral, and herbo-mineral formulations. The study reviewed classical texts to compile various Rasausadhies along with their ingredients, dosages, and vehicles for drug administration. For instance, formulations containing essential ingredients such as Vanga Bhasma (tin ash), Abhrak Bhasma (mica), and Swarna Bhasma (gold ash) have been identified, each with specified dosages for effective treatment. The inclusion of supportive vehicles (Anupana) such as honey and various plant juices is crucial in improving the efficacy and absorption of these formulations.
Conclusion
Despite the existence of numerous allopathic therapies for diabetes, they often come with significant side effects and fail to offer comprehensive relief. In contrast, Ayurvedic Rasausadhies present a promising alternative with reported efficacy in managing Prameha/Madhumeha, often without substantial complications. This review highlights the potential of Rasausadhies as a basis for further scientific inquiry into their therapeutic application for diabetes management, suggesting an integrative approach to treatment that combines the ancient wisdom of Ayurveda with modern scientific methods.
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.
Hari Khanal
P. G. Scholar
Abhishek Upadhyay
Lecturer, Department of Kayachikitsa, National Institute of Ayurveda, Jaipur, Rajasthan.
Nischal Gupta
PG Scholar, Department of Kayachikitsa, Dr. B.R.K.R Govt. Ayurvedic College, Hyderabad.
Ram Kishor Joshi
Professor and Head, Department of Kayachikitsa, National Institute of Ayurveda, Jaipur, Rajasthan.
Ayushdhara:
(A peer-reviewed, bi-monthly open-access journal)
Full text available for: Ayurvedic rasausadhies used in the management of prameha w.s.r. to diabetes mellitus
Year: 2020 | Doi: 10.47070/ayushdhara.v7i3.541
Copyright (license): CC BY-NC-SA 4.0
Download the PDF file of the original publication
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What is the relationship between Diabetes Mellitus and Prameha in Ayurveda?
Diabetes Mellitus (DM) is similar to Prameha in Ayurveda, characterized by hyperglycemia and increased urination. Prameha is classified as a Tridoshaja condition, primarily linked to an imbalance in Kapha dosha. Both conditions exhibit similar signs and symptoms.
What are Rasausadhies and their significance in treating Diabetes?
Rasausadhies are Ayurvedic metallic formulations used for centuries to manage Diabetes Mellitus (DM), particularly Prameha. They involve special processing techniques making minerals safe and effective for therapeutic use, and have been recognized for their benefits in managing diabetes without significant side effects.
What were the aims of the study on Rasausadhies for diabetes?
The study aimed to review Ayurvedic classical texts to compile Rasausadhies effective in managing Prameha, particularly Diabetes Mellitus. This information is intended to assist Ayurvedic practitioners in prescribing these formulations with proper dosages and Anupana for optimal treatment outcomes.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Ayurvedic rasausadhis for managing prameha (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) Bhasma (Bhasman):
Bhasma refers to ash obtained through incineration, a vital process in Ayurveda to transform minerals and metals into a fine, absorbable form suitable for consumption. This technique enhances the therapeutic efficacy and safety of heavy metals in treatments such as those for Prameha [Diabetes].
2) Shuddha (Suddha):
Suddha means pure or purified. In Ayurveda, it represents the purification processes applied to raw materials like metals, minerals, and herbs, making them safe for human consumption. Purification is an essential step in preparing potent formulations used in the management of diseases like Prameha.
3) Anupana:
Anupana is the vehicle or medium used to administer Ayurvedic medicines, enhancing their effects and assimilation. In the context of Rasausadhies for treating Prameha, common Anupanas include honey, milk, or specific herbal decoctions tailored to maximize the medicinal benefits.
4) Bhavana (Bha-vana):
Bhavana is a wet-grinding process in Ayurveda where herbal juice or decoction is mixed with powders, usually metals or minerals, enhancing their therapeutic properties. In treating Prameha with Rasausadhies, ingredients undergo Bhavana with substances like honey or herbal extracts to potentiate efficacy.
5) Rasa (Rasha):
Rasa denotes the essence or juice but can refer to metallic and mineral preparations in Ayurveda, known as Rasausadhies. These formulations, once processed through sophisticated alchemical methods, are used extensively in treating chronic conditions like Prameha, showcasing potent medicinal properties.
6) Honey:
Honey, a common Anupana in Ayurveda, is used to administer various medicines. It serves as a medium to enhance the effects and digestibility of formulations. For treating Prameha, honey often accompanies Rasausadhies, aiding in their absorption and amplifying therapeutic outcomes.
7) Vanga (Vamga):
Vanga refers to tin, which is processed into Vanga Bhasma in Ayurveda. This mineral, after undergoing purification and incineration, is used in formulations for managing conditions like Prameha (Diabetes). Vanga Bhasma is known for its therapeutic efficacy in regulating metabolism and managing metabolic disorders.
8) Lauha:
Lauha stands for iron, used in Ayurveda in various medicinal forms like Lauha Bhasma (iron ash). This iron preparation, purified and processed to enhance potency, is employed in managing Prameha among other conditions, benefiting blood health and supporting robust metabolic functions.
9) Lauhabhasma (Lauha-bhasma):
[see source text or glossary: Lauha-bhasma]
10) Prameha:
Prameha is an Ayurvedic term that correlates with diabetes mellitus, characterized by excessive and turbid urine due to metabolic disturbances. Ayurveda classifies it as a Tridoshaja condition, primarily involving Kapha dosha, affecting various body tissues and fluids, including Meda, Shonita, and Oja.
11) Triphala (Tri-phala):
Triphala is a classical Ayurvedic herbal formulation consisting of three fruits: Haritaki, Amalaki, and Bibhitaki. This combination is revered for its balance and therapeutic efficacy, often used in managing Prameha. It aids digestion, detoxifies the system, and supports metabolic health.
12) Mineral:
Minerals in Ayurveda are substances used in various formulations post extensive purification and processing. These include Vanga, Lauha, Tamra among others, which are transformed into Bhasma for therapeutic uses, particularly in the treatment of chronic conditions like Prameha (Diabetes).
13) Powder:
Powdered forms of herbs, metals, or minerals are common in Ayurveda for ease of administration and enhanced absorption. For instance, Abhrak Bhasma (mica ash) or herbal powders like Haritaki are integrated into treatments of Prameha, aiding in consistent therapeutic benefits.
14) Shilajit (Silajit, Shila-jit):
Shilajit is a tar-like, mineral-rich substance used in Ayurveda, especially in managing Prameha (Diabetes). Purified Shilajit is considered a potent Rasayana (rejuvenative) that boosts metabolism, energy, and manages blood sugar levels effectively, enhancing overall vitality.
15) Medicine:
Medicine in Ayurveda encompasses formulations derived from plants, minerals, and animal products, meticulously processed for therapeutic use. Rasausadhies, a category of such medicines, play significant roles in managing chronic ailments like Prameha, showing minimal side effects compared to allopathic alternatives.
16) Milk:
Milk is frequently used as Anupana in Ayurvedic treatments, providing a nourishing vehicle for medicine administration. In the context of Prameha, cow or goat milk may accompany specific Rasausadhies, aiding the body's assimilation of the medicinal compounds and enhancing therapeutic outcomes.
17) Ayurveda (Ayus-veda):
Ayurveda, an ancient holistic healing system from India, encompasses a wide range of treatments using plant, mineral, and animal-derived products. It emphasizes balancing the body's doshas and uses specialized formulations like Rasausadhies for effectively managing diabetes mellitus (Prameha).
18) Haritaki:
Haritaki, one of the fruits in Triphala, plays a vital role in Ayurvedic medicine, particularly for digestive health. In treating Prameha, Haritaki helps detoxify the system, regulates blood sugar levels, and reinforces the overall therapeutic regimen aimed at managing diabetes symptoms.
19) Tamra:
Tamra means copper, used in Ayurveda in forms like Tamra Bhasma after extensive purification (Sodhana). This mineral is incorporated into Rasausadhies for managing conditions like Prameha, leveraging its therapeutic potential to regulate metabolic processes and support health.
20) Suvarna:
Suvarna, or gold, is a precious metal used in Ayurveda as Suvarna Bhasma, following elaborate purification processes. It contributes to the therapeutic efficacy of anti-diabetic formulations (such as those for Prameha), enhancing vitality, metabolism, and providing rejuvenative benefits.
21) Kantalauha (Kanta-lauha):
[see source text or glossary: Kantalauha]
22) Haridra:
Haridra, commonly known as turmeric, is a revered herb in Ayurveda for its anti-inflammatory and healing properties. In treating Prameha, Haridra is often part of formulations due to its ability to manage blood sugar levels and its general health benefits.
23) Shunthi (Sunthi, Sumthi, Shumthi):
Sunthi or dried ginger is used in Ayurveda for its digestive and anti-inflammatory properties. It is a component in many formulations for managing Prameha, aiding digestion, reducing metabolic disorders, and enhancing the overall therapeutic profile of the treatment regimen.
24) Patra:
[see source text or glossary: Patra]
25) Kanta (Kamta):
[see source text or glossary: Kanta]
26) Vati:
Vati refers to Ayurvedic medicinal tablets or pills, formulated through compressing herbs and minerals. Various Vatis are used in the treatment of Prameha, combining ingredients like Suddha Parad, Suddha Gandhak, and various Bhasmas to deliver controlled and effective dosages.
27) Tamrabhasma (Tamra-bhasma):
[see source text or glossary: Tamra-bhasma]
28) Amalaki:
Amalaki, part of the Triphala trio, is renowned in Ayurveda for its high vitamin C content and antioxidant properties. In the context of Prameha, Amalaki aids in regulating blood sugar, improving immunity, and supporting the effects of other therapeutic ingredients.
29) Hari (Harin):
[see source text or glossary: Hari]
30) Samhita:
Samhitas are classical texts in Ayurveda containing comprehensive medical knowledge and practices. They document various formulations, including those for Prameha, guiding the holistic treatment approaches and the use of Rasausadhies in chronic disease management.
31) Pippali (Pippalin):
Pippali, or long pepper, is commonly used in Ayurvedic formulations for its digestive and metabolism-enhancing properties. It is often incorporated into treatments for Prameha to support digestive health and enhance the effectiveness of other medicinal ingredients.
32) Kasturi:
Kasturi, or musk, is a rare and valuable substance used in Ayurveda for its potent rejuvenative properties. It can be found in comprehensive formulations aimed at managing Prameha, contributing to overall vitality and therapeutic efficacy.
33) Amala:
[see source text or glossary: Amala]
34) Naga (Nag):
Naga refers to lead, which is processed into Naga Bhasma in Ayurveda. This preparation, following purification, is used in treatments like those for Prameha to leverage its therapeutic properties, aiding in metabolic regulation and overall health management.
35) Goat milk:
[see source text or glossary: Goat milk]
36) Nagabhasma (Naga-bhasma):
Naga Bhasma is a lead-based Ayurvedic formulation, used for its therapeutic effects after extensive purification. In treating Prameha, it helps in managing metabolic imbalances, contributing to the overall efficacy of the medicinal regimen by regulating bodily functions.
37) Shatavari (Satavari):
[see source text or glossary: Satavari]
38) Vaikranta (Vaikramta):
[see source text or glossary: Vaikranta]
39) Kapittha:
Kapittha, also known as wood apple, is used in Ayurveda for its digestive and therapeutic benefits. It might be part of formulations used in the treatment of Prameha, aiding digestion and influencing metabolic processes positively.
40) Guggulu:
Guggulu, a gum resin, is a critical Ayurvedic ingredient known for its anti-inflammatory and lipid-lowering properties. It is integral to formulations for managing Prameha, helping regulate metabolism, and providing overall therapeutic benefits for chronic conditions.
41) Trikatu (Tri-katu):
Trikatu is a traditional Ayurvedic formulation made of equal parts Pippali, Sunthi, and Maricha (black pepper). This combination is used for its digestive and metabolic benefits, enhancing other treatments for Prameha by boosting digestion and systemic function.
42) Brihat (Brhat):
[see source text or glossary: Brihat]
43) Tankan:
[see source text or glossary: Tankan]
44) Phanta (Phamta):
[see source text or glossary: Phanta]
45) Madhu:
[see source text or glossary: Madhu]
46) Durva:
[see source text or glossary: Durva]
47) Majja:
[see source text or glossary: Majja]
48) Pushpa (Puspa):
[see source text or glossary: Puspa]
49) Ghi (Ghee):
Ghee, clarified butter, is a common Anupana and therapeutic agent in Ayurveda, used for its deep nourishment and absorbability. In treating Prameha, ghee might be used to enhance the effectiveness of powders and Bhasmas, supporting balanced metabolism and health.
50) Drug:
[see source text or glossary: Drug]
51) Cow milk (Cow's milk):
[see source text or glossary: Cow milk]
52) Candraprabha (Candra-prabha):
[see source text or glossary: Chandraprabha]
53) Purification:
Purification, or Sodhana, is a set of processes in Ayurveda to detoxify raw materials like minerals and metals. It is crucial for making substances like Bhasmas safe for consumption and effective in treatments for conditions like Prameha, ensuring therapeutic safety and potency.
54) Pittapapada:
[see source text or glossary: Pittapapada]
55) Science (Scientific):
[see source text or glossary: Scientific]
56) Shilajatu (Silajatu, Shila-jatu):
[see source text or glossary: Shilajatu]
57) Nagarjuna:
Nagarjuna, an 8th-century alchemist, significantly advanced the use of Rasausadhies by developing special processing techniques. His contributions underpin much of the modern Ayurvedic practices in treating chronic ailments like Prameha with complex mineral and metallic formulations.
58) Rajasthan:
[see source text or glossary: Rajasthan]
59) Alchemist:
[see source text or glossary: Alchemist]
60) Shodhana (Sodhana):
Sodhana is the Ayurvedic process of purification used to detoxify and prepare metals, minerals, and other raw materials for therapeutic use. This ensures that formulations like Bhasmas are safe and effective, especially important in treatments for conditions like Prameha.
61) Aushadha (Ausadha):
Ausadha refers to medicine in Ayurveda derived from plants, animals, and minerals. It is one of the three components of Trisutra, essential in treating diseases. In managing Prameha, various ausadhas including Rasausadhies are employed to restore health and balance doshas.
62) Shankha (Sankha, Samkha, Shamkha):
[see source text or glossary: Shankha]
63) Javitri:
[see source text or glossary: Javitri]
64) Lavanga (Lavamga):
[see source text or glossary: Lavanga]
65) Musali (Mushali):
[see source text or glossary: Musali]
66) Gutika:
Gutika refers to pills or tablets made in Ayurveda by compressing powdered herbs, minerals, and other ingredients. These are used for targeted therapeutic effects, including treating Prameha, where precise dosages of Rasausadhies and herbs are administered for maximum benefit.
67) Marana:
Marana is the process of incineration in Ayurveda, used to convert metals and minerals into Bhasmas. This procedure is critical for creating efficacious and safe medicinal compounds for treating chronic ailments like Prameha, ensuring the ingredients are bioavailable and effective.
68) Jaipur:
[see source text or glossary: Jaipur]
69) Pidika:
[see source text or glossary: Pidika]
70) Pipali:
[see source text or glossary: Pipali]
71) Phala:
[see source text or glossary: Phala]
72) Kapha:
Kapha is one of the three doshas in Ayurveda, representing the elements of earth and water. In Prameha, there is a predominance of Kapha, leading to symptoms like sluggish metabolism and fluid retention. Treatments aim to balance Kapha to restore health.
73) Pishti (Pisti):
[see source text or glossary: Pisti]
74) India:
[see source text or glossary: India]
75) Setu:
[see source text or glossary: Setu]
[Note: The above list is limited to 75. Total glossary definitions available: 153]