Symptoms & Treatments Of Hyperglycemia According To Ayurveda

Hyperglycemia, commonly known as Diabetes is a group of metabolic disorders marked by high level of blood glucose which results from defects in insulin production. It is of two types – type I or Insulin Dependent Diabetes Mellitus (IDDM) and type II or Non-Insulin Dependent Diabetes (NIDDM). Type II diabetes is increasing more rapidly due to changes in lifestyle.

It in turn damages many of the body’s systems leading to many complications, which further exacerbate the diabetic condition and affect the quality of life as well. The increasing worldwide incidence of hyperglycemia constitutes a global public health burden.

What are the symptoms of Hyperglycemia?

• Unexplained weight loss
• Presence of ketones in the urine
• Blurred vision
• Irritability
• Tingling and numbness in the hands and feet
• Fatigue
• Slow healing of wounds
• Recurring infections

Hyperglycemia according to Ayurveda:

Hyperglycemia is known as Madhumeha in Ayurveda. Madhumeha and its management are well-described in Ayurvedic literature. In Ayurvedic texts like Charak Samhita and Sushrut Samhita, it has been described as a disorder in which the patient passes urine frequently characterized as sweet and astringent.

What is the treatment of Hyperglycemia?

Insulin is the only treatment for type I diabetes and there are various drugs available for type II diabetes. The World Health Organization (WHO) has also recommended long back that the search for the products of natural origin should be encouraged, especially in those countries where the access to the conventional treatment of diabetes is not easily accessed.

Ayurveda has described number of plants, minerals or their formulations for the treatment of diabetes.

Ayurveda emphasizes on the avoidance of etiological factors as the main principle of the treatment.

Diabetic people are classified under two categories in Ayurveda which include:

1. Sthula evam balwaan (obese and strong)
2. Krisha (thin and weak)

The treatment of obese and strong patients having diabetes begins with bio-cleansing procedures whereas the treatment of the diabetic patients who are thin and weak comprises undergoing mild cleansing procedures followed by the treatment to nourish the body with specific rasayanas (santarpan chikitsa). Both these conditions are successfully managed with Ayurvedic treatment and diet regimen.

Yamuna Pharmacy is one of the leading Ayurvedic pharmacies serving worldwide. The products guarantee quality and efficiency. It provides world class Ayurvedic herbal formulations at reasonable price.

Yamuna Pharmacy manufactures effective Ayurvedic products for the successful management of Hyperglycemia or Diabetes as well.

Herbal Remedies offered by Yamuna Pharmacy for the treatment of Hyperglycemia are:

1. Madhumehnil Capsule: Madhumehnil Capsule is a poly-herbal mineral compound of herbs and minerals that provides effective management of Diabetes.

• These capsules lower the blood sugar, lower the amount of sugar in urine by stimulating the generation and functionality of insulin hormone.
• These capsules consist of Methi beej, Karela beej, Haridra, Amalaki, Shilajeet, Trivang Bhasam etc.

Dose: Take 1-2 capsules three or four times a day.

2. Kalmegh Capsule: Kalmegh Capsules of Yamuna Pharmacy contain the standardized extract of the herb Andrographis paniculata. This herb is popularly known as ‘King of Bitters’.

• These capsules are beneficial for diabetic patients as it lowers the blood sugar levels by increasing the secretion of insulin.
• It is a liver protecting herb as well and helps in purification of blood.

Dose: Take 1-2 capsules once or twice a day.

In addition to proprietary Ayurvedic formulations prescribed by Yamuna Pharmacy, some classical Ayurvedic medicines are there to treat the condition. These are:

1. Chandraprabha Vati: Chandraprabha Vati is a classical Ayurvedic preparation used for the mitigation of Prameha.

• It is a mixture of 37 herbomineral ingredients which have both glucose and lipid lowering properties.

2. Nisamalaki Churna: Nisamalaki Churna is another Classical Ayurvedic preparation mentioned in Ayurveda for the treatment of Diabetes.

• The composition of Nisamalaki Churna is Amla (Emblica officinalis) and Turmeric (Curcuma longa).
• Amla is considered as the best of the rejuvenative fruits because of its tridoshghana activity and haridra is considered as the best spice for the metabolic disorders like diabetes.

3. Vasant Kusumakar Ras: Vasant Kusumakar Ras is a classical mineral based preparation which is a trusted Ayurvedic remedy for glucose intolerance and its complications.

• It is useful in nerve weakness and peripheral neuritis associated with hyperglycemia.

Diet and Lifestyle:

Diet is prescribed according to the body type and age of the patient, seasonal and environmental conditions.

Wholesome Diet:

• Barley
• Green gram
• Horse gram
• Bitter gourd
• Black pepper
• Blue berry
• Drumstick
• Turmeric
• Amalaki

Unwholesome Diet:

• Juice of sugarcane
• Jaggery
• Alcohol
• Sour beverages
• Curd
• Sweets
• Junk and processed food
• Soft drinks
• Non-vegetarian food

Lifestyle:

• Include exercise and some Yogasanas in your lifestyle.
• Awakening late night is not recommended.
• Don’t suppress natural urges.

Hyperglycemia can be treated successfully with herbal remedies along with changes in diet and lifestyle.

Symptoms & Treatments of Hyperglycemia According to Ayurveda

Hyperglycemia refers to high blood sugar levels, a condition commonly associated with diabetes mellitus. In Ayurveda, hyperglycemia is considered a Kapha dosha imbalance that leads to an accumulation of Ama (toxins) and disrupts the body’s natural metabolic processes. It is often linked to imbalances in digestion, metabolism, and lifestyle factors. Ayurvedic treatment for hyperglycemia focuses on restoring balance to the doshas, detoxifying the body, improving digestion, and regulating blood sugar levels.

Symptoms of Hyperglycemia (High Blood Sugar)

The symptoms of hyperglycemia can develop gradually and may not be immediately noticeable. Common symptoms include:

1. Increased thirst (polydipsia): Feeling excessively thirsty and drinking more fluids than usual.

2. Frequent urination (polyuria): Urinating more often than usual, especially at night.

3. Fatigue or weakness: A feeling of tiredness, lethargy, and low energy.

4. Blurred vision: Vision can become blurry due to fluid imbalances in the eyes.

5. Headaches: Regular headaches or migraines as a result of high blood sugar levels.

6. Slow wound healing: Cuts or sores take longer to heal.

7. Dry mouth or skin: Dehydration can cause dry mouth and skin.

8. Weight loss: Unexpected weight loss, even if you’re eating normally.

9. Increased hunger (polyphagia): An unusual increase in appetite due to the body’s inability to use glucose effectively.

Ayurvedic Perspective on Hyperglycemia

In Ayurveda, hyperglycemia (and diabetes) is classified as Madhumeha, which is essentially a metabolic disorder affecting the Kapha dosha. According to Ayurveda:

• Kapha dosha governs the body’s structure, fat, and bodily fluids. When Kapha becomes aggravated due to poor diet, lack of exercise, or emotional factors, it leads to an excess of Ama (toxins), which disrupts the body’s ability to metabolize sugars properly.

• The Pitta dosha is also involved as it governs digestion and metabolism, and an imbalance can cause improper digestion of food, resulting in imbalanced blood sugar levels.

The Ayurvedic treatment for hyperglycemia aims to balance the doshas, improve digestion (Agni), detoxify the body, and regulate blood sugar levels.

Ayurvedic Treatments for Hyperglycemia

1. Herbal Remedies for Managing Blood Sugar

There are several powerful Ayurvedic herbs that help lower blood sugar levels and support pancreatic function.

• Bitter Gourd (Karela, Momordica charantia):

  • Benefits: Karela is well-known for its ability to regulate blood sugar levels. It contains compounds like charantin, which helps enhance insulin sensitivity and lower glucose levels.

  • How to use: Drink fresh Karela juice daily on an empty stomach or consume Karela powder (1 tsp) mixed with water.

• Fenugreek (Methi):

  • Benefits: Fenugreek seeds are rich in soluble fiber, which helps regulate blood sugar levels by slowing down the absorption of sugars in the bloodstream.

  • How to use: Soak 1-2 tsp of Fenugreek seeds in water overnight and consume the soaked seeds on an empty stomach in the morning.

• Tulsi (Holy Basil):

  • Benefits: Tulsi has anti-hyperglycemic properties and is known to reduce blood sugar levels by promoting proper digestion and improving insulin action.

  • How to use: Drink Tulsi tea or chew fresh Tulsi leaves daily to help regulate blood sugar levels.

• Gudmar (Gymnema Sylvestre):

  • Benefits: Gudmar is traditionally known as the “sugar destroyer.” It helps reduce the absorption of sugar in the intestine and supports insulin secretion.

  • How to use: Gudmar powder (1 tsp) can be taken with warm water twice a day.

• Cinnamon (Dalchini):

  • Benefits: Cinnamon helps improve insulin sensitivity and lowers blood sugar levels by stimulating the receptors that respond to insulin.

  • How to use: Add 1/2 tsp of cinnamon powder to your tea or smoothie every day or sprinkle it on your meals.

• Amla (Indian Gooseberry):

  • Benefits: Amla is rich in vitamin C, which helps reduce oxidative stress and improves pancreatic function. It also regulates blood sugar levels.

  • How to use: Drink Amla juice or consume Amla powder with warm water for better blood sugar control.

2. Ayurvedic Formulations for Hyperglycemia

• Triphala:

  • Benefits: Triphala is a combination of three fruits—Amla, Haritaki, and Bibhitaki. It helps detoxify the body, improve digestion, and balance blood sugar levels.

  • How to use: Take 1 tsp of Triphala powder with warm water before bedtime.

• Diabecon (Himalaya):

  • Benefits: Diabecon is an Ayurvedic formulation that supports the management of blood sugar levels and prevents complications related to diabetes.

  • How to use: Take 1-2 tablets twice a day, as prescribed by a healthcare professional.

• Madhunashini Vati (for Diabetes):

  • Benefits: Madhunashini Vati is known to help regulate blood sugar and improve pancreatic function. It is commonly used in Ayurvedic treatment for hyperglycemia.

  • How to use: Take 1 tablet twice daily with warm water.

3. Dietary Guidelines for Hyperglycemia

• Include high-fiber foods: Incorporate whole grains, vegetables, and fruits like apples, pears, and berries that are low on the glycemic index.

• Avoid processed and refined foods: Stay away from sugary foods, white bread, and foods high in refined sugars and fats that can spike blood sugar.

• Eat smaller, more frequent meals: Eating 4–5 smaller meals per day can help regulate blood sugar levels.

• Healthy fats: Include olive oil, ghee, and nuts (almonds, walnuts) to provide healthy fats that help stabilize blood sugar levels.

• Spices to include: Use turmeric, ginger, garlic, and cinnamon in your daily meals for their anti-inflammatory and blood sugar-lowering properties.

4. Lifestyle Changes

• Exercise: Regular physical activity like walking, yoga, and light aerobic exercises helps to enhance insulin sensitivity and lower blood sugar levels.

• Manage stress: Yoga, meditation, and deep breathing exercises (pranayama) help in reducing stress, which can exacerbate blood sugar imbalances.

• Adequate sleep: Ensure 7-8 hours of quality sleep every night to help regulate hormones that control blood sugar.

• Maintain a healthy weight: Regular exercise and a balanced diet will help in weight management, which is crucial for managing hyperglycemia.

5. Detoxification (Panchakarma)

• Panchakarma therapies like Basti (enema) and Virechana (purgation) can help detoxify the body, remove Ama (toxins), and balance the doshas. These therapies can help improve digestion and metabolism, thereby supporting healthy blood sugar regulation.

Conclusion

In Ayurveda, hyperglycemia is treated through a holistic approach that includes herbal remedies, dietary changes, lifestyle modifications, and stress management techniques. By incorporating herbs like Karela, Fenugreek, Gudmar, and Amla, along with adopting a balanced lifestyle and following a proper diet, it is possible to control blood sugar levels and prevent complications associated with hyperglycemia.

Always consult an Ayurvedic practitioner or healthcare provider before starting any new treatment or herbal regimen, especially if you have existing medical conditions like diabetes.

Hyperglycemia refers to high blood sugar levels, often associated with diabetes mellitus. In Ayurveda, hyperglycemia is considered a result of imbalances in the Kapha dosha (which governs the body’s structure and fluids) and sometimes Pitta dosha (which governs heat, digestion, and metabolism). These imbalances can lead to improper digestion, accumulation of Ama (toxins), and insufficient insulin function, all of which contribute to elevated blood sugar levels.

Symptoms of Hyperglycemia According to Ayurveda:

Hyperglycemia manifests in a variety of symptoms that Ayurveda attributes to doshic imbalances and toxins in the body. Common symptoms include:

1. Increased Thirst (Polydipsia):

   • One of the most noticeable symptoms of hyperglycemia is excessive thirst, which occurs due to dehydration caused by increased urination.

2. Frequent Urination (Polyuria):

   • When blood sugar levels are high, the kidneys attempt to filter out excess glucose, leading to frequent urination.

3. Fatigue and Weakness:

   • Elevated blood sugar levels prevent glucose from entering the cells, leading to a lack of energy and feelings of fatigue and weakness.

4. Blurred Vision:

   • High blood sugar levels can cause fluid imbalances that affect the eye lens, leading to blurry vision.

5. Unexplained Weight Loss:

   • Although the person may eat more due to hunger, weight loss can occur as the body breaks down muscle and fat for energy since glucose is not properly utilized.

6. Increased Hunger (Polyphagia):

   • The body may crave more food due to the inability to properly use glucose, leading to constant feelings of hunger.

7. Slow Healing of Wounds:

   • High blood sugar can impair circulation and immune function, leading to slow healing of cuts and injuries.

8. Dry Mouth:

   • As the body tries to eliminate excess glucose, it leads to dehydration, which can cause dry mouth and skin.

9. Nausea and Vomiting:

   • In extreme cases, high blood sugar levels may lead to nausea, vomiting, or even diabetic ketoacidosis (in type 1 diabetes), a serious condition.

10. Increased Skin Infections:

    • Hyperglycemia can weaken the immune system, making the body more prone to infections, especially skin infections.

Causes of Hyperglycemia According to Ayurveda:

1. Imbalanced Kapha Dosha:

   • Kapha is the dosha that governs the body’s structure and lubrication. When Kapha becomes aggravated, it leads to the accumulation of excess mucus, fat, and toxins (Ama) in the body. This can impair proper digestion, leading to imbalances in blood sugar levels.

2. Poor Digestion (Mandagni):

   • When the digestive fire (Agni) is weak, food is not properly digested, resulting in the creation of Ama, which is a toxic byproduct that can block the pathways of digestion and metabolism, leading to high blood sugar.

3. Excessive Intake of Sweet and Fatty Foods:

   • Overconsumption of sweet, fatty, and processed foods can disturb the balance of Kapha and Pitta, resulting in the accumulation of toxins that affect the body’s ability to process glucose.

4. Lack of Physical Activity (Increased Kapha):

   • A sedentary lifestyle exacerbates Kapha imbalance, contributing to weight gain and poor insulin function, both of which are risk factors for hyperglycemia.

5. Emotional Stress (Aggravating Vata and Pitta):

   • Emotional stress, anxiety, and anger can disturb Vata and Pitta, leading to poor digestion, insulin resistance, and ultimately, increased blood sugar levels.

6. Weakness in Shukra Dhatu (Reproductive Tissue):

   • According to Ayurveda, when the body’s Shukra Dhatu (reproductive tissue) is weak, the metabolism slows down, leading to poor digestion and the development of excess toxins and imbalanced blood sugar.

7. Excessive Consumption of Alcohol and Sugar:

   • Excessive consumption of alcohol and refined sugar is considered to be detrimental to Pitta and Kapha, contributing to poor digestion and imbalanced blood sugar levels.

8. Genetics and Family History:

   • Ayurveda acknowledges that hereditary factors may play a role in the development of hyperglycemia, especially in individuals who are predisposed to Kapha imbalance or diabetes.

Treatments of Hyperglycemia According to Ayurveda:

Ayurvedic treatments for hyperglycemia focus on balancing the doshas (primarily Kapha), enhancing Agni (digestive fire), improving the body’s ability to metabolize sugar, and detoxifying the body. Below are some of the primary Ayurvedic remedies:

1. Herbal Remedies:

• Ginseng (Withania somnifera or Ashwagandha):

  • Ashwagandha is a well-known adaptogenic herb that helps reduce stress and improve overall metabolic function. It also helps balance Vata and Kapha, two doshas often involved in hyperglycemia.

• Guduchi (Tinospora cordifolia):

  • Guduchi, also known as Giloy, is a powerful herb that balances Pitta and Kapha, detoxifies the liver, and helps manage blood sugar levels. It is often used in Ayurvedic formulations to treat conditions like hyperglycemia and diabetes.

• Bitter Melon (Momordica charantia):

  • Bitter melon is widely used in Ayurveda for its ability to reduce blood sugar levels. It is known to stimulate the production of insulin and improve glucose uptake by the cells.

• Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum):

  • Fenugreek seeds are effective in lowering blood sugar levels. They are known to increase insulin sensitivity and support proper digestion, reducing the risk of hyperglycemia.

• Turmeric (Curcuma longa):

  • Turmeric contains curcumin, which has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It is helpful in improving insulin sensitivity and regulating blood sugar levels.

• Neem (Azadirachta indica):

  • Neem is beneficial for reducing excess Kapha and cleansing the blood. It helps reduce blood sugar levels and supports the body’s detoxification process.

• Amla (Emblica officinalis):

  • Amla is high in vitamin C and antioxidants, which can help strengthen the immune system and improve insulin sensitivity, thus helping in the regulation of blood sugar.

• Triphala:

  • Triphala, a combination of three fruits (Amalaki, Haritaki, and Bibhitaki), is a great tonic for improving digestion, detoxifying the body, and balancing the doshas. It is also beneficial in regulating blood sugar levels.

• Shilajit:

  • Shilajit is a mineral resin used in Ayurveda to rejuvenate the body and improve metabolic functions. It can help regulate blood sugar levels and improve overall vitality.

2. Lifestyle Modifications:

• Regular Physical Activity:

  • Regular exercise, particularly aerobic exercises, yoga, and walking, helps to regulate blood sugar levels by improving insulin sensitivity and promoting fat loss, which helps balance Kapha.

• Stress Reduction Techniques:

  • Practices like yoga, meditation, and pranayama (breathing exercises) are essential in managing stress and balancing Vata and Pitta. Reducing stress helps prevent the fluctuation of blood sugar levels and improves overall metabolic function.

• Adequate Sleep:

  • Ensure that you get enough restorative sleep. Sleep deprivation can worsen hyperglycemia, as it affects the body’s ability to regulate blood sugar and reduces insulin sensitivity.

3. Dietary Modifications:

• Follow a Kapha-Pacifying Diet:

  • A diet that is light, dry, and warm is recommended for individuals with hyperglycemia. Foods such as vegetables, whole grains, and lentils are ideal as they help balance Kapha and improve digestion.

  • Limit the consumption of heavy, fatty foods and refined sugars, which can exacerbate Kapha and lead to weight gain, insulin resistance, and high blood sugar.

• Increase Bitter and Astringent Tastes:

  • According to Ayurveda, bitter and astringent tastes help balance Kapha and reduce excess sugar in the body. Include foods like bitter melon, turmeric, and green leafy vegetables in your diet.

• Eat Smaller, More Frequent Meals:

  • Eating smaller meals throughout the day, rather than large meals, can help maintain stable blood sugar levels and improve digestion.

• Avoid Processed and Sugary Foods:

  • Reducing or eliminating processed, sugary, and fried foods is essential in managing blood sugar levels. These foods aggravate Pitta and Kapha and lead to the formation of Ama.

• Incorporate Anti-Inflammatory Foods:

  • Include foods that are known for their anti-inflammatory properties, such as turmeric, ginger, garlic, and cinnamon.

4. Detoxification and Panchakarma Therapies:

• Virechana (Purgation):

  • This Ayurvedic detoxification therapy helps cleanse the digestive system and remove excess toxins from the body, improving metabolic function and blood sugar regulation.

• Abhyanga (Oil Massage):

  • Abhyanga, a full-body massage with warm herbal oils, is beneficial for calming Vata and Kapha, improving circulation, and promoting overall detoxification.

• Shirodhara (Oil Therapy for the Head):

  • This calming therapy helps to reduce mental stress and restore balance to the nervous system, which can indirectly support blood sugar regulation.

• Basti (Enema Therapy):

  • Basti therapy helps cleanse the colon, remove Ama, and promote the overall balance of the body’s internal energies, including digestion and metabolism.

Conclusion:

Hyperglycemia, according to Ayurveda, is primarily caused by imbalances in Kapha and Pitta doshas, weak digestion (Mandagni), and the accumulation of Ama. Ayurvedic treatments focus on improving digestion, reducing stress, detoxifying the body, and balancing the doshas. Herbal remedies, dietary changes, regular exercise, and stress management are central to managing hyperglycemia naturally. Always consult with an Ayurvedic practitioner for personalized treatment and lifestyle recommendations.