Diabetes, known as prameha in Ayurveda, is a condition that affects many worldwide. According to Ayurveda, prameha is derived from two words: pra, meaning excess, and meha, from the word for watering, indicating excessive urination. This excessive urination, both in quantity and quality, is considered the major symptom of prameha.
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There are two main classifications of prameha:
- Sahaja, which is hereditary, passed down through families
- Dosha, which results from consuming the wrong foods or engaging in unhealthy activities.
Clinically, prameha is also classified by body type, with some people being obese (sthoulya pramehi) and others thin (krusha pramehi).
Ayurveda has recognised prameha for thousands of years, as evidenced by its mention in the Charaka Samhita, which was written roughly 3,000 to 4,000 years ago. This ancient text also details the complications of prameha, such as boils and slow-healing wounds due to elevated blood glucose levels.
Ayurveda mentions 20 types of prameha, by dosha predominance. 10 Kapha, 6 Pitta and 4 Vata. Kapha is treatable while Vata variety is incurable (only manageable).
Key Symptoms of Diabetes According to Ayurveda
- Excessive urination is often the first symptom, followed by a dry throat.
- Increased thirst accompanies the need to pass urine frequently.
- Hunger and fatigue are symptoms that may develop later.
- Dark patches around the neck, knees, and mouth are also signs.
- A thread of saliva sticking between the lips when speaking can be an early symptom of pre-diabetes.
Management and Prevention
- Ayurveda emphasises the importance of addressing the root causes of diabetes, particularly in cases that are not hereditary.
- If diabetes is due to poor lifestyle, the key is to avoid the causative factors.
- For obese individuals with diabetes, cleansing processes may be used, while for thin individuals, nourishment is preferred.
- Lifestyle changes such as avoiding overeating, excess sleep, and sedentary behaviour are essential.
- Intermittent fasting can be a beneficial practice if it is combined with early sleep, as this can help the body to recycle.
- Stress management is also crucial.
- It is important to support those with diabetes, find the cause, and work to reverse the condition through lifestyle changes.
Questions and Answers
1. Do dark patches around the neck, knees and mouth appear due to diabetes or pre-diabetes and how can one get rid of the pigmentation?
a. Yes, these dark patches can be a symptom of pre-diabetes, and they will likely clear up once the sugar levels are managed.
2. What are the general symptoms of diabetes?
a. The first symptoms are excessive urination and a dry throat that leads to excessive thirst. Increased hunger and fatigue come later.
3. What lifestyle changes should one adopt to avoid diabetes?
a. According to Ayurveda, if diabetes is not hereditary, you need to avoid the causative factors which can be poor diet and lifestyle choices.
4. If someone is suffering from insomnia for a few years, what should they do?
a. It's important to understand the reason for the lack of sleep, such as any trauma or stress. Sleeping pills might physically induce sleep, but finding and addressing the root cause is essential for proper rest.
Ayurveda views diabetes not merely as a disease but as an imbalance that can be addressed through lifestyle and dietary changes. It emphasizes a holistic approach to health, focusing on understanding the root causes of illness rather than just treating the symptoms.