subject: Take Control of Diabetes with Ayurveda [print this page] Take Control of Diabetes with Ayurveda Take Control of Diabetes with Ayurveda
Diabetes is a chronic metabolic disorder in which the body is not able to make proper use of glucose, resulting in hyperglycemia (high blood sugar). When there is excess glucose in the blood, it leads to an increase in levels of glucose in the urine (glycosuria). As a result, the patient experiences an increase in urine output and excessive thirst. Other common symptoms of diabetes are extreme tiredness, weight loss, blurred vision, itchy skin, and repeated minor infections such as thrush and boils.
In modern medicine, the treatment of Diabetes involves use of a strict diet and lifestyle regimen, along with doses of insulin, in a huge number of cases. However, the ancient science of Ayurveda believes that you do not need to constrict your lifestyle just because you are a Diabetic. Ayurveda offers an entire range of treatment medicines as well as diet and lifestyle recommendations that can help you lead a life that is not marred by Diabetes.
Ayurveda's Take on Diabetes
In Ayurveda, Diabetes Mellitus is known as Madhumeha; Madhu means honey' and Meha means urine', i.e., urine that has sugar in it. All factors, whether it is genetic, environmental, or body constituency, are taken into account. It can be related to: Kaphaj (caused by aggravation of Water element), Pittaj (caused by aggravation of Fire element) or Vataj (caused by aggravation of Air element).
Medhumeha comes in the third category Vataj Meha. Vata is an Ayurvedic humour, which symbolizes wind and dryness. Deterioration is feature of aggravated Vata. Maximum deterioration of dhatus (body tissues) occurs in this disease due to aggravation of Vata. This is the reason why all vital organs are affected by diabetes.
Causes of Diabetes
Excessive intake of foods that are difficult to digest, such as fried foods, creams, etc.
Lack of exercise
Mental stress and strain
Excessive sleep
Overeating and consequent obesity
Excessive intake of sugar and refined carbohydrates
Overloading of proteins and fats
Hereditary factors
Treatment of Diabetes
Ayurveda does not regard Diabetes as a disease that can be treated by mere medicine or by a dietary regimen. Madhumeha is classified as a Maha Rog (Major Disease) because, if not treated in time, it can lead to several complications in the body, including eye problems, joint pains, impotency, kidney failure, sexual and urologic problems, and more.
Diabetes is a metabolic disorder; it cannot be merely treated by controlling sugar levels. The treatment recommended in Ayurveda as against modern medicine is aimed at rejuvenating the body to not only balance sugar levels, but also ensuring that no further complication is caused.
The Ayurvedic treatment for this disease is based on an entire change in the lifestyle of the person. Along with medication and diet, the patient is also advised to lead a healthy lifestyle and live an active life. Dietary and lifestyle changes rejuvenate the body's cells and tissues, allowing them to produce insulin properly. Even mental aspects of the disease are stressed upon in Ayurveda. Most Vataja disorders originate in the brain, and since Madhumeha is classified as Vataja, it is highly important to keep the brain in its right manner of functioning.
Ayurveda is closely knit with Yoga for the treatment and control of Diabetes. For example, the Paschimottanasana is highly recommended for patients of Madhumeha. Panchakarma, the Ayurvedic treatment procedures, are also extremely beneficial for Diabetic patients, as it helps in rejuvenating the body and strengthening immunity by giving strength to weakened body muscles.
In essence, Ayurveda does not restrict its treatment to controlling sugar levels in a Diabetic patient. It works on the root cause of the disease, strengthening the patient's immunity, enhancing digestion and helping him lead an overall healthy life. Healthcare companies like Jiva Ayurveda specialise in Ayurvedic treatment and medicines for Diabetic patients that are natural and extremely safe.
