Category: Diabetes & Complications

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.

September 26, 2023

Ayurvedic View on Latent Autoimmune Diabetes in Adults (LADA)

Abstract

Diabetes is the most widely recognized disease on the planet and a significant danger to worldwide well-being. As it is a persistent infection, essential and optional counteraction is vital to diminish its weight on individuals and society. Individuals with LADA might have symptoms of diabetes type 2, however, their bodies produce antibodies that disrupt the body’s capacity to control glucose. Individuals with LADA might utilize insulin or different drugs to control glucose and slow pancreatic harm. In this article, we will examine causes, Symptoms, risk factors, diagnosis, complications, Ayurvedic overview, and treatment.

Introduction

LADA is a type of diabetes that usually affects older people after the age of 35. Individuals with LADA may experience symptoms of both type 1 and type 2 diabetes. In LADA, people develop antibodies that affect the pancreas’s ability to control blood sugar. Individuals with LADA may not initially be insulin resistant, meaning their pancreas can still produce insulin. Doctors may diagnose these people with diabetes 2 type, but people with diabetes 2 type do not develop the antibodies that cause LADA. Unlike diabetes 1 type mellitus, LADA progresses slowly, which explains why it is not diagnosed until later in life. LADA accounts for 2-12% of all diabetes.

Diabetes 1 Type

On the point, the pancreas produces little or no insulin, known as diabetes type 1. It is a chronic disease. It mostly appears in adolescence.

Diabetes 2 Type

When the body does not use insulin properly, known as diabetes type 2. It manages lifestyle changes and physical activities.

Causes of Lada

It happens when your pancreas is harmed by antibodies and doesn’t create sufficient insulin, which gradually obliterates the insulin-delivering cells in your pancreas. Hereditary elements may likewise be involved. In LADA, during which the pancreas is harmed, the body annihilates the beta cells of the pancreas, like sort 1 type.

Symptoms of Lada

LADA symptoms, such as:

Polydipsia
Polyuria
Skin infection
Weight gain
Blindness or blurred vision
Dry skin
Fatigue
Nausea
Vomiting
Bladder infection
cuts and bruises that heal slowly

Complications of Lada

Similar to type 2 diabetes, LADA patients may be at risk for microvascular complications, including

Renal damage
Disorders of the eye such as vision
Nerve damage causes pain, tingling, and loss of sensation in the hands and feet.
DKA (Diabetic Ketoacidosis)- Diabetic ketoacidosis occurs when cells cannot get the glucose they need and the body switches to burning fat for energy. This creates ketones that are responsible for the fruity odour of the breath. DKA leads to Diabetic coma. Symptoms are as follows: High blood sugar, unintentional weight loss, weakness, vomiting and changes in mental state.

Risk Factors

There are some risk factors for developing LADA include

Excessive weight or obesity
Low birth weight
Low physical activity
Psychosocial stress

Diagnosis of Lada

GADA antibody test – this test is mainly used for latent autoimmune diabetes. It is a touchy marker of this disease as it is a predominant autoantibody.
C-peptide – to find out the level of insulin produced by the body
FPG test- Assuming the glucose level is in excess of 126 mg/dl shows diabetes.
RPG test- Assuming the glucose level is in excess of 200 mg/dl or higher it indicates diabetes
Urinary sugar test- Usually, when blood sugar rises above 180 mg/dl, sugar is released in the urine. However, in the case of renal glycosuria, the kidneys start to work less and even if the blood sugar is below 180 mg/100 ml, glucose can be excreted in the urine
GTT- A night fast for 12 hours or less is required. Glucose (75 g for adults and 1.75 g/kg body weight for children) was given orally after a rapid blood test. After two hours, samples of blood were taken and blood glucose levels were measured. Whenever diabetes is analysed, the test does not need to be repeated.

Ayurvedic Overview of Lada

जात: प्रमेही ————- विकारा भवन्ति तांश्च प्रवदन्त्य साध्यान।। (Ch. chi. ६/५७)

As mentioned above- LADA is related to sahaja prameha and is created by innate factors. People born with Prameha disease or inherited from a father with diabetes have no cure due to genetics. Any family disease is considered incurable. Prameha includes all doshas. Kapha causes premeha by influencing medas (lipid digestion) in the bladder, muscles and body liquids. Pitta, who is uncomfortable with hot things, will do the same by influencing the places mentioned. Vayu causes prameha by consuming dhatus in the bladder with a diminished portion compared with the other two. Dosha produces different sorts of prameha by arriving at the bladder and influencing the urine.

Nidana of Lada (Causes)

आस्यासुखं स्वप्नसुखं दधीनि ग्राम्योैदकानूपरसाः पयांसि।

नवान्नपानं गुडवैकृत च प्रमेहहेतुः कफकृच्च सर्वं।। (Ch. Chi. ६/४)

According To Acharya Charaka

Sleeping too much
Inactivity
Eating too much curd
Eating too much swamp meat.
Eating too many aquatic animals.
Overeating.
Jaggery
New Grains
Foods that increase Kapha dosha too much

Samprapti Chakra (Pathophysiology) of Latent Autoimmune Diabetes

दोषो हि बस्तिं समुपेत्य मूत्रं संदूष्य मेहाञ्जनयेद यथास्वम।। (Ch. Chi. ६/६)

According to Acharya Charak, one of the energies in Vata, Pitta or Kapha condenses and reaches the bladder and contaminates the urine, causing symptoms.

Dosha and Dusya Involved in It

Doshas: Vata, Pitta and Kapha
Dusyas: Marrow, Meda, muscle fat, Rakta, Shukra (semen), fluid, lymph, and so forth

Prameha’s Types

There are clinically two types

Sthula Parmeha- Urinary tract infections in obese individuals.
Krisha Parmeha- Urinary tract infections in thin individuals.

Symptoms of Prameha

Acoording to Acharay Sushruta

तत्राविलप्रभूतमूत्रलक्षणा: सर्व एव प्रमेहा: (Su. Ni. ६/६)

Turbidity and excessive urination is the symptom of all prameha roga.

Management of Parmeha Roga

In Obese patients (Sthula Parmeha)- Sanshodhan chikitsa (purification) should be followed by Brihana chikitsa (nourishing).
In Thin patients, (Krisha Parmeha)- Brihana (nourishment) chikitsa should be given.
Snehan chikitsa (Oleation)- Oils such as Mustard oil (Sarsapa), etc.
Swedan (Fomentation) is strictly contraindicated in Parmeha.

Herbal Remedies for Latent Autoimmune Diabetes by Planet Ayurveda

Planet Ayurveda is a GMP-certified Ayurvedic clinic that manufactures a variety of medicines to treat various health issues and provide relief to patients. All formulations of Planet Ayurveda contain no preservatives, additives or resins. Planet Ayurveda offers many herbal remedies targeting diseases with no side effects.

Dia-Beta Plus
Karela Capsules
Madhumehantak Churna
Fenugreek Capsules

Product Description

1. Dia-Beta Plus

These are polyherbal capsules. It contains various herbs such as Gurmaar (Gymnema sylvestre), Tulsi (Ocimum tenuiflorum), Vizaysaar (Pterocarpus marsupium) etc. Gurmaar is also known as the destroyer of sugar or anti-diabetic. It has been used in combination with other diabetes medicine. Karela has anti-diabetic action, its extract is used as a vegetable insulin. Saptrangi is traditionally used to cure ailments such as obesity and diabetes. These capsules detoxify the body. It purifies the blood and has analgesic, anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.

Dosage: 2 capsules two times a day.

2. Karela Capsules

It consists of one herb that is Karela (Momordica charantia). It is bitter in taste. Karela is very helpful in reducing blood sugar and cholesterol levels. It balances all three principles in your body. It includes charantin which brings down the blood glucose level in the body and helps in maintaining diabetes. Karela also helps in blood purification.

Dosage: 2 capsules after meal.

3. Madhumehantak Churna

This polyherbal churna contains Saptrangi (Salacia chinesis), Vijaysar (Pterocarpus marsupium), Bilva patra (Aegle marmelos), Gurmaar (Gymnema Sylvestre), Neem patra (Azadirachta indica), Karela (Momordica charantia), Tulsi (Ocimum sanctum), Jamun (Syzygium cumini) etc. Neem has carminative, antibacterial and anti-diabetic action. This jamun can control the frequency of urination and help lower sugar in the urine and blood. Using tulsi facilitates kapha and vata, but makes pitta heavier. It helps to clean the blood.

Dosage: 1 tsp twice daily before meal.

4. Fenugreek Capsules

These capsules contain only one herb- Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum graecum). The taste is bitter, the effect is mild, sharp and subtle. It quiets Vata and Kapha but Pitta is aggravated. It increases appetite, improves digestion, is a gentle purgative and has anti-inflammatory properties. Advances lactation and controls post-pregnancy pain. It is hostile to diabetic properties. As well as supporting weight reduction, the cycle likewise lessens serum lipids.

Dosage: 1-2 capsules two times a day.

Conclusion

Latent autoimmune diabetes is an autoimmune disease in adults with features of type 1 and type 2 diabetes. So this is also called type 1.5 diabetes mellitus and you need insulin for at least the first month after diagnosis to control your blood sugar. This is a type of congenital diabetes. In Ayurveda, it is associated with Sehaj Parmeh (hereditary diabetes). It is difficult to treat, but there are some herbs in the Ayurvedic world that can help treat autoimmune diabetes without causing side effects.