Ayurvedic Medicine and Herbal Therapy for Diabetes

Ayurveda considers diabetes a kapha disorder of low agni (digestive fire) and offers a variety of treatments, including the following that can be undertaken with the guidance of a qualified practitioner: Take turmeric daily to control blood sugar (you can take it alone or in combination with ground bay leaf and aloe vera gel); follow a pacifying diet by avoiding too many sweets; and participate in a supervised pancha kanna program. Consult your doctor before starting a new regimen; diabetes must be carefully monitored.

Bodywork and Somatic Practices

Reflexology, polarity therapy, and Oriental bodywork therapies can be helpful in balancing energy and reducing stress.

Herbal Therapy

Garlic can aid in stabilizing blood sugar. Ask your healthcare provider if garlic capsules are right for you.

Many herbs are known to affect blood sugar levels, which in turn can cause significant variation in the need for insulin. Such variation could ultimately result in insulin shock or diabetic coma. Therefore, persons with known diabetic conditions should take precautions and try herbal preparations only under close medical supervision.

Traditional Chinese Medicine

Acupuncture Acupuncture can be used to help control stress, which in turn impacts the patient's blood sugar level. Acupuncture also can be used to fortify overall immunity and strengthen organs that may otherwise be compromised by diabetes. Usually the practitioner works on points associated with the bladder, kidneys, spleen, pancreas, and related organs and meridians.

Acupressure Acupressure may be used to control diabetes-related symptoms, such as fatigue, cramps, and menstrual problems. In addition, applying pressure to Bladder points 18, 19, 20, and 23 can help stimulate liver and pancreas functioning, making the body better able to cope with the disease.

Chinese Herbal Therapy Ginseng has been shown to regulate blood sugar levels and is often used to treat diabetes. Major Four Herbs Formula and Rehmannia Six Combination also may be used, but a full diagnosis is needed.

Yoga and Meditation

Yoga, mediation, and breathing exercises can improve blood circulation and enhance digestion, therefore helping you cope with diabetes. Establish a daily routine of at least four poses, such as the Chest-Knee, Sun Salutation, Peacock, Locust, and Leg Lift. Yogic exercises can also be helpful; see a trained therapist for instructions on yogic exercises.