Tag: Herbal Remedies for Diabetes

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.

How Do We Treat High Blood Sugar With Natural Remedies?

Abstract

Chronic metabolic conditions like diabetes are a fast spreading global obstacle with a large number of health, social and economic fallout. Diabetes is a most common health issue in humans that develops when your blood sugar (glucose) level is too high. When blood sugar concentration is upraised, it signs to pancreas to discharge insulin. Blood sugar or glucose is essential or major sugar which is located in your blood that carries to all cells to provide energy. Glucose is a fundamental source of energy, which is obtained from food that you consume. Several risk factors increase the production of diabetes which may include – obesity, weight, unhealthy diet and lifestyle choices. In this article we are going to discuss high blood sugar level, its symptoms, causes, risk factors, diagnosis, healthy recommendations and herbal solutions which are provided by PLANET AYURVEDA.

Blood Sugar Levels

Introduction

High blood sugar is also known as hyperglycemia, this condition occurs when there is high concentration of sugar in blood. This happens only when your body does not utilise insulin accurately or has very little amount of insulin – a hormone which transfers glucose into the blood. People affected with type 1 diabetes have a pancreas that does not create insulin while type 2 diabetes patients have cells in the body that are opposed to insulin or have a pancreas that slows down the production of insulin. Both types of diabetes cause unusual blood sugar. High blood sugar is a common issue, which is connected with diabetes. Hyperglycemia can cause faster heartbeat, vomiting, vision difficulties and excessive thirst and hunger. If you are not treated with this condition it can lead to several health disorders.

The common types of Diabetes are

1. Type 1 Diabetes

It is caused by an autoimmune reaction that stops your body to produce insulin. It generally occurs in teenagers and young adults.

2. Type 2 Diabetes

if the person is affected with type 2 diabetes, his body does not use insulin properly or blood sugar level is imbalanced.

3. Gestational Diabetes

It occurs in pregnant women who never had diabetes. If you are affected with gestational diabetes, your baby could be at high risk of health disorders.

Symptoms of High Blood Sugar Level

  • Fatigue
  • Weight loss
  • Boost up thirst
  • Frequent urination
  • Headaches
  • Blood sugar level more than 180 mg/dl
  • Blurred or double vision

Moderate to Severe High Blood Glucose

  • Excessive thirst
  • Flushed, dry, hot skin
  • Drowsiness
  • Vomiting and nausea
  • Lower abdomen pain
  • Rapid breathing
  • Weak pulse or quick heart rate
  • Troubles in waking up
  • Lightheadedness
  • Numbness in feet and hands
  • Skin or vaginal infections
  • Dryness and blisters

Causes of High Blood Sugar Level

Your blood sugar level may increase if you have:

  1. Your body does not utilise insulin appropriately.
  2. Less Active than normal.
  3. Emotional stress like (family or work stress, emotional behaviour).
  4. Physical stress such as flu, cold, illness or infection.
  5. Taking steroids for other health conditions.
  6. Insulin or diabetes medication.
  7. Perform physical activities, when your blood sugar level is high or insulin is less.
  8. Consume excess amounts of carbohydrates but do not work efficiently.

Other possible Causes may include:

  1. Trauma or surgery.
  2. Taking other medication such as steroids and diuretics.
  3. Gestational diabetes.
  4. Pancreatic disorders such as cystic fibrosis, pancreatitis and pancreatic cancer.
  5. Endocrine ailments for example cushing’s syndrome that cause insulin resistance.

What are the complications of high blood sugar level?

  1. Dental problems
  2. Hearing loss
  3. Depression
  4. Erectile dysfunction
  5. Kidney damage that can result in kidney failure, or the requirement of dialysis and kidney transplantation
  6. Nerve damage which causes numbness and tingling in many parts of the body
  7. Cardiovascular disorder such as chest pain, high blood pressure, atherosclerosis, high cholesterol level and coronary artery disease
  8. Eye related disorders

How to diagnose Hyperglycemia?

High blood sugar levels can be diagnosed by using following test:

  1. Blood test
  2. Oral glucose tolerance test
  3. Fasting plasma glucose test
  4. A1 c test
  5. Random plasma glucose test

How do I prevent high blood sugar?

You can prevent your unusual blood sugar level by following recommendations which are listed below:

  1. Physical exercise helps to reduce abnormal blood sugar.
  2. Manage a healthy weight.
  3. Avoid smoking and limit alcohol consumption.
  4. Follow your healthy diet plan.
  5. Check your blood sugar level many times a day.
  6. Drink plenty of water.

Diabetes – according to ayurveda

As per ayurveda, diabetes is called “Prameha” which is caused due to abnormal concentrations of sugar in the bloodstream. “Prameha” which means “obstinate urinary disease”, is a collection of several health disorders which are stated in Ayurveda. This classification involves health problems like diabetes, frequent urination and so on. However, In ayurveda Diabetes is categorized into 20 types which are based on doshas in the human body. The types may include 4 vata dominant types, 6 pitta related and 10 kapha dominant dosha. If Prameha is not controlled at an exact time, it produces “Madhumeha” (Type 2 diabetes).

As per ayurvedic point of view, diabetes develops due to Avarna (obstructions of pathways due to imbalances in kapha dosha) and Dhatu Kshaya (loss of dhatus in the body). PLANET AYURVEDA is an ayurvedic organization which provides various herbal solutions for the treatment of unusual blood sugar levels. How To Raise Low Blood Pressure With Diet And Natural Remedies?. All products by PLANET AYURVEDA are formulated by strictly following guidelines and principles of Ayurveda. Let’s discuss herbal formulations of PLANET AYURVEDA.

Ayurvedic Treatment For High Blood Sugar

Product Description

1. Fenugreek Capsules

It is an aromatic herb (Trigonella foenum) in the family fabaceae which helps to treat diabetes, digestive system, bronchitis and weight loss and its natural ingredients helps to stimulate appetite and reduce hot flashes during menstrual periods. It is helpful to improve breast enhancement and it maintains the overall reproductive system of females. These herbal capsules lowers the risk of high blood sugar levels. Fenugreek seeds contain vitamins like vitamin A, B6, C, thiamine, folic acid, niacin and minerals like zinc, copper, calcium, manganese and magnesium.

Dosage: 1-2 capsules two times a day, after half an hour of meals, with plain water.

2. Karela Capsules

Bittermelon is called karela in Indian literature. Karela (Momordica charantia) is a very popular herbal treatment for diabetes. Karela capsules which are offered by planet Ayurveda act as natural anti diabetic and lessen the blood sugar level. These capsules are prepared without using chemical, artificial and preservatives. This herbal remedy is formulated from pure extracts of karela which is highly effective for the enhancement of the immune system.

Dosag: 1- 2 capsules to be taken 2 times a day, ½ to 1 hour after meals with lukewarm water.

3. Dia-Beta Plus

It is an amazing herbal remedy which is formulated by using variou ingredients such as Tulsi (Ocimum tenuiflorum), Karela (Momordica charantia), Saptrangi (Salacia oblonga), Gurmaar (Gymnema sylvestre) and many others. Dia beta plus helps to fight with symptoms of diabetes as an efficient herbal capsule. These capsules contain several natural herbs which are helpful to control hyperglycemia. Planet Ayurveda offers this herbal supplement which is effective and free from side effects because there are no chemicals, color, fillers and binders in it.

Dosage:

  • For non insulin dependent: 2 capsules 2 times a day before ½ hour of meals, with normal water.
  • For insulin dependent: 4-6 capsules twice daily before ½ hour of meals, with normal water.

4. Madhumehantak Churna

This herbal churna is combination of different natural herbs like babool (Acacia arabica), saptrangi (Salacia chinensis), bilva patra (Aegle marmelos), methi (Trignolla foenum graceum), sadabahar (echonera rosea) and many other herbs. It is a traditional remedy which is not only effective for lowering blood sugar level but also advantageous to treat diabetes. Madhumehantak churna is helpful for treating all health complications which are caused due to diabetes. This herbal churna is 100% vegetarian and safe to use.

Dosage: 1 teaspoonful twice daily, before ½ hour meals with apple juice, iced tea or plain water.

Outcomes

After reading this article, we conclude that diabetes is a common health issue which is raised due to several factors. It is a curable condition, There are several allopathic treatments and ayurvedic treatments are available which are helpful for lowering the high blood sugar. Moreover, Ayurveda is aan old-fashioned healthcare system which has been used since ancient times due to its efficiency resulting in each and every disease. Planet Ayurveda is offering these above-mentioned products, regular consumption of these herbal medicines helps you to control blood sugar level and is also helpful for treating other health problems. These all products are prepared by following guidelines and principles which have been used from ancient times. The Ayurvedic natural health care system is spread worldwide because ayurvedic treatments are very helpful for each and every disease. For more details of our products, you can check our website www.planetayurveda.com. For more queries, you can send your queries to our email id herbalremedies123@yahoo.com.