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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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January 27, 2025

Ayurvedic Treatment for Sarcoidosis with Herbal Remedies

ABSTRACT

Sarcoidosis is a granulomatous disorder which affects the multiple organs of the body. Where lungs and lymphatic system being the most affecting sites of the body, there are more patients in there initial stage remains asymptomatic and thus it makes the disease remain unnoticeable for prolonged period of time. Later after some years the disease may be diagnosed after witnessing patients being symptomatic or suffering from various organ failure. It could affect the middle age group also its clinical features are co-related with Tuberculosis. On histopathological and immunological examination it reveals non-caseating granuloma. Further research has to be done to know exact pathogenesis, early detection and plan for better treatment for sarcoidosis. In ayurveda we have to cure this with the help of some herbal medication which provides better results in the Sarcoidosis and improves the health of the patient. Also with medication diet and lifestyle modification plays a very important role in ayurveda. Regular exercise, yoga and breathing pranayama such as kapalbhati can help to open the blocked channel. So in ayurveda it can be managed. Let’s discuss it in detail!

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INTRODUCTION

Sarcoidosis is a condition which develops when a group of cells in your immune system form red and inflamed lumps called granulomas in various organs of the body. The inflammation that leads to granuloma can be caused due to infection or by other certain things you came into contact with. Sarcoidosis can affect any organ of your body. Most commonly it affects the lymph nodes of the chest and lungs. It also affects the eyes, heart, skin and various other organs.

CAUSES

The cause of sarcoidosis is not known. But a combination of genetic predisposition of disease may be triggered by bacteria or viruses or environmental factors are responsible. Some of various causes are chemicals, infectious agents, dust and potential abnormal reactions to own body proteins could be responsible for formation of granulomas.

SYMPTOMS

Sarcoidosis can be begin with these sign and symptoms like:

  • Swollen lymph nodes
  • Fatigue
  • Fever
  • Weight loss
  • Muscle ache and weakness
  • Pain and swelling of joints

Symptoms present in lungs

  • This disease most affects the lungs and may cause various lung problems
  • Shortness of breath
  • Dry Cough
  • Pain in chest
  • Wheezing sounds

Symptoms present in eyes are

  • Eye pain
  • Blurred vision
  • Burning and itching of eyes
  • Sensitivity to light

Heart symptoms

  • Fainting
  • Chest pain
  • Shortness of breath
  • Irregular heartbeat
  • Swelling caused by excess fluid
  • Rapid and fluttering heartbeat

Skin symptoms

  • Light or dark patches on skin
  • Red tender bumps present in your skin
  • Raised tender bumps on your skin
  • Lesions on nose, cheeks, and ears

Lymph node symptoms

  • Affects lymph nodes in your neck and around the lungs, but sometimes the lymph nodes in your armpit and under the chin
  • Tenderness and enlargement of lymph nodes

STAGES

  • Stage 0: (No Pulmonary) – In this stage, there are no signs of granulomas in the lungs or lymph nodes.
  • Stage 1: (Lymphadenopathy) – In this stage, granulomas are present in lymph nodes only.
  • Stage 2: (Lymphadenopathy and pulmonary infiltrates) – In this stage, granulomas are present in both the lymph nodes and lungs.
  • Stage 3: (Pulmonary infiltration) – In this stage, granulomas are present in the lungs only.
  • Stage 4: (Pulmonary fibrosis) – This is the last stage of scarring of lung tissues and permanent damage.

However, the stage of pulmonary scarring does not indicate the progress of the disease but the area affected by it. In 4 stages permanent lung damage. In this stage, the patient experiences symptoms of pulmonary fibrosis.

Lofgren syndrome

This sudden onset of sarcoidosis is defined by several groups of symptoms that affect various organs.

  • Fever
  • Arthritis of various organs
  • Swelling of lymph nodes in the chest
  • Red, tender bumps on the skin

Diagnosis

Sarcoidosis can be difficult to diagnose because it often produces very low signs and symptoms at early stages. Further on, we start with physical examination and discuss the symptoms.

  • Chest X-ray
  • Blood and Urine tests
  • Lung Pulmonary test
  • Eye exam to check for vision problems
  • Biopsy
  • Tuberculosis
  • Angiotensin receptor enzymes (ACE) level
  • Electrocardiogram
  • Echocardiogram
  • PET/CT-scan
  • Slit lamp examination

Treatment

Treatment of sarcoidosis is usually used for managing the symptoms and preventing organ damage. There is no need for treatment if you don’t have symptoms or have very mild symptoms.

Medications used for sarcoidosis are:

  • Corticosteroids
  • Anti-tumor necrosis factor-alpha antibodies (Anti-TNF-alpha antibodies)
  • Immunosuppressants
  • NSAIDs

RISK FACTORS

  • Age: This disease can occur at any age group but mostly occurs between 20 to 60 years of age.
  • Gender: Women are prone to this disease.
  • Family History: If you have a family history, you are more likely prone to the symptoms of sarcoidosis.

Ayurvedic Overview

Ayurveda is the talk of the town everywhere in the world. Ayurveda offers the holistic approach to treating Sarcoidosis by addressing the underlying imbalance in the body. This disease can be attributed to an imbalance of doshas which are the fundamental energies that govern the functioning of the body. In this the most important thing we need to have understanding of dosha involved in the disease for the treatment of the disease. Sarcoidosis primarily impacts lymph nodes. Where lymph are all about Kapha dosha. There is abundance in kapha reason-lungs. When the pitta starts affecting these lymph nodes these lymph nodes lose their nature and become hard. This is the basic pathological process of sarcoidosis. Because this place belongs to kapha dosha. As we know sarcoidosis is an autoimmune disease. Because no autoimmune condition can occur without tridoshas. The condition of lungs is all about Kapha and Vata dosha. As in case of low levels of kapha, vata causes dryness. Ayurveda also recommends improving the immune system. Improving your immune power by increasing the intake of medicinal herbs. Good quality of herbs and formulation strengthen the immunity and overall health of well being.

Diet

Diet also plays a very important and crucial role in sarcoidosis. Person should take a Satwik diet like green leafy vegetables, food with bitter and astringent taste in particular. A highly anti-inflammatory diet is very beneficial in sarcoidosis. In diet you should also avoid dairy products, citrus fruits, cold drinks, junk or packed food.

Lifestyle Alteration

Lifestyle alteration means practising regular exercise or yoga, pranayam may also help in managing the signs and symptoms of sarcoidosis.

Natural Treatment

  • Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera): This herb is very useful in breathing difficulty by controlling inflammation in the airways and lungs. Due to immune benefit properties.
  • Giloy (Tinospora cordifolia): Use of giloy can help to stimulate the regeneration of the tissues and organs affected.
  • Turmeric (Curcuma longa): It mainly helps to reduce the inflammation.

HERBAL REMEDIES FOR SARCOIDOSIS BY PLANET AYURVEDA

Planet Ayurveda is a US FDA Organic or GMP certified company. They provide the best combination of herbal remedies. Their medications are prepared by expert doctors. All the medication made naturally does not use any kind of chemicals and preservatives in their medication. They strictly follow the basic principles of ayurveda. They provide many medications for many diseases but in the treatment of Sarcoidosis they provide the best Sarco Care Pack.

  1. Kanchnaar Guggul
  2. Curcumin Capsules
  3. Aller-G-Care
  4. Chitrak Haritaki
  5. Punarnava Mandur
  6. Vasasav
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PRODUCTS DESCRIPTIONS

    1. Kanchnaar Guggul

    This is a herbal tablet which is formed of herbs like Kanchnaar (Bauhinia variegata) and Guggul (Commiphora mukul) and some other herbs which are good in handling the symptoms of Sarcoidosis. This is very useful and good for handling the pain, inflammation and cyst formation in bones and lymphatic blockage. This is a good product for carrying out normal and healthy functioning of cellular symptoms.

    Dosage: 2 tablets thrice a day with warm water after a meal.

    2. Curcumin Capsules

    These are in the form of capsules which are made up of single herb and standardised extract of Haridra (Curcuma longa). It has anti-inflammatory and anti oxidant properties also it helps in infection, reduces pain and improves swelling. As we know, inflammation of various organs is one of the major symptoms of sarcoidosis.

    Dosage: 2 capsules twice a day with warm water after meals.

    3. Aller-G-Care

    These are in the form of capsules which are formed of wonderful herbs like Haridra (Curcuma longa), Neem (Azadirachta indica) as the name indicates this is very profitable in allergies. It also helps to detoxify the body. These capsules are best for improving lung function and maintaining a healthy breathing pattern.

    Dosage: 2 capsules twice daily with warm water after meal.

    4. Chitrak Haritaki

    This is a classical preparation which is prepared with many wonderful herbs as this name suggests that this is made up of Chitrak (Plumbago zeylanica) and haritaki (Terminalia chebula), Pippali (Piper longum), Amla (Emblica officinalis), Maricha (Piper nigrum), Guduchi (Tinospora cordifolia), Tejpatra (Cinnamomum tamala), Ela (Elettaria cardamomum), Dalchini (Cinnamomum zeylanicum), Gud and Madha are some ingredients. It is very effective and useful. It has many wonderful properties like anti-inflammatory, and improves respiratory illness. This preparation is very useful in removal of mucus from the lungs and provides relaxation in the symptoms like breathlessness. It also has a cardiovascular supportive effect.

    Dosage: 1 tsp with warm water after a meal.

    5. Punarnava Mandur

    This is in the form of herbal tablets which are formed from the herb Punarnava (Boerhavia diffusa). This is one of the best herbal remedies for sarcoidosis. These tablets are used in swelling and inflammation of affected parts of the body. It also helps in eliminating the toxins from the body and clear the channels. It supports healthy cells functioning.

    Dosage: 2 tablets twice a day with warm water after a meal.

    6. Vasasav

    This is an ayurvedic Asav and Arishta are one of the best preparations which are prepared from the process of fermentation and also have self generated alcohol in this. This is prepared with many herbs but the key ingredient is Vasa (Justicia adhatoda), Choti Elaichi (Elettaria cardamomum), Pippali (Piper longum), Sonth (Zingiber officinalis), Dalchini (Cinnamomum zeylanicum), Shital Chini (Cubebae fructus), Tejpatra (Cinnamomum tamala), Nagkesar (Mesua ferra), water and gud etc which has many functional properties and is used in many conditions commonly used in bleeding disorder, bronchodilator or sinusitis. It helps in respiratory symptoms and melts the accumulation of kapha dosha. Kapha dosha is mainly the resulting blockage of Strotas. So this preparation is helpful in opening the blocked Strotas.

    Dosage: 2 tsp twice a day daily.

    CONCLUSION

    In this article we concluded a topic on Sarcoidosis here we start the topic with introduction further we discuss about causes, symptoms, stages, investigation and treatment protocol further we discuss about Ayurvedic overview, diet lifestyle and best ayurvedic treatment by Planet Ayurveda. Their Sarco Care Pack is super effective in this condition.

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