Category: Ayurveda

November 27, 2025

AYURVEDIC ALTERNATIVE OF METFORMIN / GLUCOPHAGE

ABSTRACT

Diabetes is one of the most challenging lifestyle disorders in the present era. It is a condition where the body cannot properly control blood sugar, leading to high glucose levels in the blood. It can cause fatigue, excessive thirst, frequent urination, and long-term complications if not managed. Metformin is a commonly prescribed oral medicine for type 2 diabetes. It works by reducing sugar production in the liver and improving the body’s response to insulin. It is often the first choice for doctors worldwide in managing type 2 diabetes. Though it provides temporary control it often leads to various side effects. Ayurveda however offers a timeless, holistic, and side-effect-free solution. The goal of Ayurveda is not merely to lower glucose but to restore complete metabolic harmony (Dhatu Samya).

 

INTRODUCTION

Metformin is an anti diabetic drug that is commonly used for the management of diabetes. It is a biguanide drug that is a first choice medication in case of diabetes. It is commonly prescribed as monotherapy or in combination with other drugs. It is available as both immediate and extended release formulations. It does not stimulate pancreatic β cells. It also improves lipid profile in type 2 diabetic patients. Its absorption mainly occurs in the intestine and the presence of food affects the rate of absorption. Glucophage:  It is the brand name for metformin. It is most commonly prescribed in type 2 diabetes. It is taken 2-3 times in a day. Other brand names are Fortamet, Glumetza, Metabet, Diagemet.

MODE OF ACTION

  • The mechanism involves activation of AMPK enzyme (Adenosine monophosphate activated protein kinase).
  • It suppresses gluconeogenesis from the liver and prevents glucose output from the liver.
  • It enhances insulin mediated glucose uptake and disposal in skeletal muscle and fat.
  • Metformin reduces intestinal absorption of glucose.

INDICATION

  • Type 2 Diabetes
  • Antipsychotic-induced weight gain (AIWG)
  • Gestational Hypertension
  • Oligomenorrhea due to PCOS

CONTRAINDICATION

  • Severe renal dysfunction
  • Hypersensitivity reactions
  • Hepatic impairment
  • Heart disorders
  • Diabetic ketoacidosis
  • Hypotension

ADVERSE EFFECTS

  • Diarrhea
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Chest discomfort
  • Headache
  • Lactic acidosis
  • Abdominal pain
  • Malaise and weakness

In Ayurveda, Diabetes type 2 correlates with Madhumeha which is one of the 20 types of prameha. It is primarily a Vata-predominant metabolic disorder caused by derangement of Kapha and Meda (fat tissue) leading to Agnimandya (weak digestion) and improper Meda-Dhatu (fat body tissue) metabolism. Over time, this also results in Ojas Kshaya (depletion of vital essence). There are various drugs that are used in the management. Some of them are:

Gurmaar

  • Gurmaar or Gymnema slyvestre is known as Gurmaar which means sugar destroyer. Gymnemic acids in it block sugar absorption in the intestine and stimulate insulin secretion. It exhibits inhibitory effects on the levels of plasma glucose.
  • It temporarily suppresses the sweet taste sensation on the tongue and reduces sugar cravings.
  • Chewing its leaves daily is very beneficial for diabetic patients.

 Vijaysar

  • Pterocarpus marsupium or vijaysar is an Ayurvedic herb known for its anti-diabetic properties that help regulate blood sugar. It helps in managing diabetes (Madhumeha) by enhancing insulin sensitivity and reducing blood sugar levels. It increases cAMP content of the islets which helps in increasing insulin release and conversion of proinsulin to insulin.
  • बीजक: कुष्ठविसर्पश्वित्रमेहगुदकृमिन।।    (भावप्रकाश)

It means बीजक (Pterocarpus marsupium ) is used in diabetes (मेह).

  • Its heartwood decoction is very effective in Diabetes Type II. Drinking water kept in vijaysar bark wood glasses in the morning helps to keep blood sugar levels in control.

   Methika

  • Trigonella foenum-graecum or fenugreek is widely used in diabetes mellitus. An amino acid (4-hydroxyisoleucine) is found in fenugreek which contains the anti-diabetic properties.
  • It contains alkaloids like trigonelline, gentianine, carpaine and is rich in soluble fiber (galactomannan). It increases glucose uptake by peripheral tissues (muscle and fat), enhancing insulin receptor activity.
  • Taking its seeds or seed powder daily is beneficial in diabetes.

    Jambu

  • Syzygium cumini or jamun is widely used to manage diabetes. Its seeds are mostly used in hyperglycaemia and polyuria. It contains bioactive compounds like jamboline, jambosine, ellagic acid, and anthocyanins which helps to regulate blood sugar levels.
  • It has jamboline which slows down starch conversion into sugar in the intestines.
  • 300mg – 1gm powder of its dry seeds helps to stop the release of sugar in urine.

Karvellak

  • Momordica charantia or karela is also one of the most well known herbs used in diabetes. Its active constituents like charantin, polypeptide-p, vicine, and momordicin helps in stimulating insulin secretion, improving glucose uptake by cells, and inhibiting glucose production in the liver.
  • It is Kleda shoshaka (reduces excess fluid), Medohara (reduces fat) and Rakta prasadaka (improves blood quality).
  • Its fresh fruit juice is beneficial in diabetes and cooked fruit can also be used.

    Saptarangi

  • Salacia chinensis or saptarangi has active component Salacinol which is a unique thiosugar sulfonium compound that inhibits intestinal α-glucosidase enzyme thus reducing postprandial glucose absorption and the kotalanol helps to delay carbohydrate digestion and glucose absorption.
  • It reduces the urine output and regulates blood sugar levels. Its root powder twice daily is effective to manage diabetes.

    Shilajit

  • Shilajit or Asphaltum punjabinum is a sticky blackish compound and is rich in many bio active compounds.
  • It helps to regulate blood sugar levels by enhancing the body’s response to insulin and the fulvic acid in it enhances mitochondrial function and this further increases glucose metabolism and thus benefits the diabetic person by promoting better energy balance and glucose management.
  • It is considered as Rasayana (Rejuvenator) in ayurveda and as diabetes often causes weakness and fatigue, Shilajit helps to restore energy.

    PLANET AYURVEDA’S PRODUCTS

    Planet Ayurveda is a reputed herbal manufacturing company that provides pure, natural and authentic Ayurvedic products formulated on the foundation of ancient wisdom and produced under modern quality standards. All the products are prepared in compliance with strict GMP (Good Manufacturing Practice) guidelines. Products are formed under the supervision of MD doctors and following all the principles of ayurveda.

    Planet Ayurveda offers various formulations that have verified results in Diabetes and we will discuss some of the products:-
    Combo Pack

DIA-BETA PLUS

It is a capsule formulation of Planet Ayurveda. Its main ingredients are Gurmaar (Gymnema slyvestrae), Karela (Momordica charantia), Vijaysar (Pterocarpus marsupium), etc. which are known for their potent action in Prameha (Diabetes). It enhances the body’s ability to utilize glucose. It promotes pancreatic beta-cell regeneration, reduces blood sugar. It specifically acts on Medo dhatu (Fat body tissue) and Kapha dosha which are primarily involved in Prameha (Diabetes).

Dosage – 1-2 capsules twice a day with plain water ½ hour before meals.

DIAB SALACIA

It is another capsule formulation of Planet Ayurveda. Its ingredients are Saptarangi (Salacia chinensis) and Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum ). Its active constitution includes Salacinol, kotalanol which inhibits intestinal α-glucosidase enzymes. It enhances insulin sensitivity, regulates lipid metabolism, and protects pancreatic β-cells from oxidative stress.

Dosage – 1-2 capsules twice a day with plain water after meals.

DIABLEEN CAPSULES

It is also a capsule formulation of Planet Ayurveda which is very beneficial in Diabetes. It consists of Methika (Trigonella foenum-graecum), Gurmaar (Gymnema slyvestre), Jambu (Syzygium cumini), etc. Its active compounds like Trigonelline, gymnemic acid and ellagic acid are responsible for the anti-diabetic property. Tikta (bitter), Kashaya (astringent) rasa (taste) and Ruksha (Dry), Laghu (light) properties reduce Kapha Dosha and Medo (fat) Dhatu (tissue) and normalize sugar metabolism.

Dosage – 1-2 capsules twice a day with plain water  after meals.

CONCLUSION

Metformin is a widely used modern medicine for type 2 diabetes, providing rapid and effective blood sugar control through reduction of hepatic glucose production and improved insulin sensitivity. However it primarily manages symptoms and may cause side effects like gastrointestinal upset and vitamin B12 deficiency. Ayurveda, on the other hand, approaches diabetes (Prameha) holistically, focusing on balancing Kapha Dosha and Medo (fat) Dhatu (tissue), enhancing Agni (metabolic fire), and improving overall metabolism. Herbal remedies like Gudmar (Gymnema sylvestre), Vijaysar (Pterocarpus marsupium), Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum) support blood sugar regulation naturally. Ayurvedic management addresses root causes, promotes lifestyle changes, and has minimal side effects. Ayurveda offers a safe, natural, and holistic alternative while Metformin provides rapid symptomatic relief.

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December 28, 2023

Herbal Treatment For Friedreich Ataxia

Abstract

Friedreich ataxia (FA) is a rare inherited disorder that causes progressive deterioration of the neurological system and movement problems. The nerve fibres in your peripheral nerves and spinal cord weaken and degenerate. (In addition to directing muscles to contract, peripheral nerves are in charge of sending information from the brain to the body and back again. Friedreich’s ataxia is a rare inherited disorder that causes problems walking, loss of feeling in the arms and legs, and difficulty speaking. Spinocerebellar degeneration is another term for it. Disorder is what the name “ataxia” refers to. Different types of ataxia can result from a variety of reasons. Apart from its impact on the heart, the illness also causes harm to specific regions of the brain and spinal cord.

Friedreich Ataxia

Introduction

Friedreich’s ataxia is an uncommon hereditary condition. There is a mutation in chromosome 9 that causes this uncommon autosomal recessive genetic illness. The neurological system is impacted by Friedreich’s ataxia, which results in a movement disorder. Impaired muscle coordination is a long-term side effect of Friedreich’s ataxia. This condition also results in visual and hearing impairments. This condition is mostly characterised by poor balance and poor coordination. There is brain, spinal cord, and cardiac damage associated with Friedreich’s ataxia.

Causes

A genetic condition known as “autosomal recessive transmission” causes Friedreich’s ataxia, which is inherited from both parents. The FXN gene is implicated in the illness. This gene typically results in the production of up to 33 copies of a particular DNA sequence in your body.

Symptoms

While a person with Friedreich’s ataxia can be diagnosed at any age up until they are in their early 50s, the most usual age range for a diagnosis is between 10 and 15. The most prevalent early symptom of the illness is difficulty walking. Additional signs consist of

  • Changes in eyesight
  • Loss of auditory perception
  • Weakened limbs
  • Your legs’ lack of reflexes
  • Insufficient or inadequate coordination
  • Issues with speech
  • Unintentional eye movements
  • Foot abnormalities, such as clubfoot, the inability to feel vibrations in your limbs
  • A significant number of individuals with this illness also suffer from heart disease. Heart problems are seen in around 75% of individuals with Friedreich’s ataxia. The most prevalent kind, hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, causes the heart muscle to thicken.

DIAGNOSIS

  • Medical history (family history)
  • Physical examination (appearance of improper movements)
  • Blood test (for elevated glucose and vitamin E level)
  • X-ray of head, spine and chest.
  • CT Scan
  • MRI
  • Electromyography
  • Nerve conduction test

MANAGEMENT

Friedreich’s ataxia is not curable but symptomatic treatment is there

  • Physiotherapy
  • Speech therapy
  • ACE inhibitor
  • Beta blockers

AYURVEDIC VIEW

The Ayurvedic culture effectively treated all rogas (diseases) in the ancient times. Since ancient times, Ayurvedic medicine has successfully treated people. Vata is responsible for muscular spasms, muscle stiffness, and an inability to synchronise motions. All neurological conditions are primarily caused by the body’s preponderance of the vata dosha, which also results in symptoms of elevated vata. By modifying our lifestyles, we can maintain a balanced state of health and improve our quality of life. Ayurvedic treatments help to balance all three doshas in the body and reduce vata. Due to the potential for allopathic side effects, the disease’s symptoms may recur or disappear. Ayurveda can keep the dosha balance intact to manage illness. When treating sickness, Ayurvedic medicine offers tremendous health benefits; its primary goal is to treat a disease from its roots. In contrast, allopathic therapy causes numerous health issues. The three main tenets of Ayurvedic medicine are the body’s constitution (Prakriti), universal interconnectedness, and dosha. According to Acharyas Charak and Sushruta in the Samhita, the objectives of treatment help the patient by getting rid of impurities, lowering symptoms, boosting resistance to illness, lowering anxiety, and enhancing harmony in life. Every neurological condition is primarily caused by the body’s preponderance of the vata dosha, which also results in symptoms of elevated vata. Ayurvedic remedies reduce vata and aid in balancing the body’s three doshas. We can also improve our quality of life and preserve balanced health by making lifestyle changes.

Herbal Remedies For Friedreich Ataxia By Planet Ayurveda

A well-known company in the world, Planet Ayurveda offers patients the greatest herbal therapies. The herb’s pure raw ingredients are extracted, producing 100% authentic products with the best overall outcome in 20 years and no negative side effects. Additionally, the greatest Ayurvedic medications are offered by planet Ayurveda to address the imbalanced dosha. The herb and medicinal plant are the natural source of its pure vegetarian products. In order to provide the greatest possible product, Planet Ayurveda rigorously complies with legal regulations. Planet Ayurveda is a manufacturer of herbal products with GMP certification. Herbal supplements from Planet Ayurveda offer excellent and very high success rates.

PRODUCTS LIST

  1. Brahmi Capsules
  2. Boswellia Curcumin
  3. Yograj Guggul
  4. Gotu Kola Capsules
  5. Shilajit Capsules
  6. Ashwagandha Capsules

Friedreich Ataxia

PRODUCT DESCRIPTION

1. Boswellia Curcumin

The primary ingredients are curcumin (Curcuma longa) and shallaki (Boswellia serrata). It is effective against arthritis, a condition that causes pain and swelling in the joints, because of its anti-inflammatory properties. It is quite effective in relieving morning stiffness. Both cervical and ankylosing spondylitis respond well to its treatment. It functions well as an analgesic and relieves pain.

Dosage – Once a day, take one capsule with plain water after meals.

2. Yograj guggul

The main ingredients are Gokhshur (Tribulus terrestris), Bibhitaki (Terminalia bellirica), Haritaki (Terminalia chebula), Guggul (Commiphora mukul), and Chitrak (Plumbago zeylanica). Yograj guggul helps to reduce joint discomfort and facilitate joint mobility. It helps the body eliminate harmful substances. It supports the body’s vitiation of the vata dosha.

Dosage – Twice daily, take two pills with lukewarm water.

3. Brahmi capsules

Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri) is a major component. It helps with conditions of the brain. Moreover, it revitalises brain cells and boosts mental function. It is one of the medications that keeps the mind healthy and is part of Medhya Rasayana. As a member of the Medhya Rasayana, brahmi enhances intelligence. Cortisol levels are lowered by it. Brahmi aids in the alleviation of mental illness symptoms, including Alzheimer’s disease. Brahmi enhances memory and increases focus. It keeps the proper ratio of tridosha in our brains, making it the greatest medication for brain-related issues.

Dosage – Take one capsule with plain water twice a day, following a meal.

4. Gotu kola capsules

Gotu Kola, or Centella asiatica, is a key component. It relieves diarrhoea, promotes wound healing, and increases vitality. lowering nervousness. managing menstruation abnormalities, reducing stretch marks, improving sexual potency, and curing venereal illnesses. It strengthens the brain’s mental capacity in addition to improving memory. It aids in the treatment of brain disorders as well.

Dosage – Take one capsule with plain water twice a day, following a meal.

5. Shilajit capsules

Shilajit (Asphaltum) is one of the main constituents, and 500 mg of pure Shilajit extract is present. Shilajit is an extremely potent immune system stimulant, an anti-inflammatory, anti-ulcer, and beneficial in relieving weakness, exhaustion, tension, and anxiety as well as overall health debility by boosting blood circulation. In addition to providing nutrients and vitamins, it helps in burning maturation, reduces tension, and helps with urine incontinence.

Dosage – Once a day, take one capsule with milk or plain water after eating.

6. Ashwagandha capsules

A 500 mg pure extract is found in an ashwagandha capsule. For glossopharyngeal neuralgia, ashwagandha capsules are utilised, which are effective. Withania somnifera, also known as ashwagandha, is used for its antioxidant qualities, to treat neuropathy brought on by diabetes, chronic fatigue syndrome, tonic that improves both physical and mental stamina, immunity booster, and nerve tonic that calms the nervous system.

Dosage – Following meals, take 1 capsule twice a day.

Contact Planet Ayurveda Support Team to provide you the costing/ordering and delivery information at – costing.planetayurveda@gmail.com or Call at 0172-521-4040 (India), +91-172-521-4040 (Outside India) or Whatsapp at (+91) 842-749-4030.

CONCLUSION

The Ayurvedic culture effectively treated all rogas (diseases) in the ancient times. Since ancient times, Ayurveda has successfully treated patients. Taking Ayurvedic medicine is preferable since it has been shown to have no negative effects over time, provides the best results, and is devoid of preservatives and other potentially harmful additives. Ayurvedic medicine focuses on treating the underlying cause of the illness and has the ability to completely eradicate ailments. In summary, it is possible to effectively improve the quality of life of patients by managing the three basic energies described in ayurveda (tridosha) that is present in their bodies in an appropriate and timely manner.

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