Diabetes, or Madhumeha, is one of the most prevalent diseases in the world today. Though the awareness about the disease is growing, it still affects millions of people. Diet, lifestyle, and stress play a crucial role in the management as well as prevention of diabetes.
In Ayurveda, diabetes is known as a maha rog (a major disease) and there are 20 different types of diabetes. Personalized treatment and some modifications in diet and lifestyle help control the blood sugar levels.
Nature has given us many herbs to stay healthy. Here are a few that are known to maintain blood sugar levels.
Ayurvedic herbs that help to regulate blood sugar in natural ways:
Triphala: Triphala has countless health benefits, including lowering the blood glucose level. It stimulates the pancreas and promotes insulin secretion. In a recent study, it was demonstrated that triphala greatly reduces blood glucose level and is known to have compounds that cause insulin-stimulated glucose uptake without converting the glucose in fat and storing it in cells.
Amla: Amla is known for boosting immunity, and is great for your hair and skin. Ayurveda doctors recommend Amla for managing Diabetes as well. It is a rich source of vitamin C, which is a powerful antioxidant and can neutralize free radicals in the body.
Neem: Neem leaves can help lower blood sugar levels. One of the best ways of consuming neem leaves is by making a decoction or Kashayam as they refer to it in Sanskrit. Crush the neem leaves, add water to it and bring it to boil. Filter out the extracts and have this decoction. It is one of the best ways to provide relief from glucose-induced hyperglycaemia.
Bitter gourd juice: This bitter vegetable has glucose-lowering properties. In fact, this vegetable can influence the metabolism of glucose in the entire body. This herb can help stimulate the secretion of insulin and is beneficial to both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes patients. Drink the juice of bitter gourd first thing in the morning for about 2 months to experience a difference.
-The writer is director, Jiva Ayurveda. He is also an author, public speaker, TV personality and Ayurvedacharya.