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What Are The Best Home Remedies For Diabetes Management?

Rebekah Pais

Rebekah Pais
Oct 2023

2 min read
Home Remedies For Diabetes

Table of content

Diabetes has emerged as a formidable health challenge in India. The need for medication or home remedies for diabetes is reaching alarming proportions. With over 77 million reported cases, India stands as the second-largest diabetic population in the world.

This chronic condition not only affects a significant segment of the country’s population but also exerts substantial pressure on its healthcare infrastructure. Despite these daunting statistics, there’s hope on the horizon in the form of simple yet effective home remedies that offer potential relief and support in the management of diabetes.

While it is essential for individuals with diabetes to consult healthcare professionals for comprehensive guidance, several readily available home remedies have gained prominence for their promising effects on blood sugar control.

In this article, we will explore these natural solutions, offering insights into their benefits as well as how they can complement conventional diabetes management.

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Diabetes And India: The Increasing Rate And Mortality

The increasing rate of diabetes in India is a multifaceted issue. Urbanization has brought about a shift from traditional diets to a more Westernized, high-calorie, as well as processed food intake.

This dietary transition, coupled with reduced physical activity, has led to a surge in obesity, a well-established risk factor for type 2 diabetes symptoms. Genetic factors also play a role, with certain Indian ethnic groups being more susceptible to the disease.

Here are some general statistics related to the prevalence of diabetes in India:

  1. Prevalence: As of 2021, India was estimated to have over 77 million people living with diabetes, making it the second-largest diabetic population in the world.
  2. Youth Diabetes: There was a concerning rise in the prevalence of diabetes among younger individuals in India. A study in 2017 indicated that around 97,000 children and adolescents in India had type 1 diabetes, and the number of children with type 2 diabetes was also on the rise.
  3. Rural vs. Urban Divide: Diabetes was previously considered more prevalent in urban areas due to lifestyle factors, but the gap between urban and rural areas was narrowing. Increasingly, rural areas were also reporting higher rates of diabetes.
  4. Mortality Rates: Diabetes-related mortality was on the rise, with complications like heart disease and stroke being the leading causes of death among individuals with diabetes. However, specific regional or state-level mortality rates can vary.
  5. State and Regional Variations: The symptoms of diabetes vary from state to state within India, with southern states such as Tamil Nadu and Kerala reporting higher rates compared to some northern states.
  6. Economic Impact: Diabetes imposes a significant economic burden on individuals and families in terms of medical expenses as well as lost productivity. Managing diabetes can be financially challenging for many.

Natural Home Remedies For Diabetes

Explore these effective antidotes for diabetes. Many of these remedies are easy to incorporate into your daily routine and can complement medical treatment as well as a healthy lifestyle.

However, always remember the wisdom of the Indian proverb: “स्वास्थ्य ही सबसे बड़ी धन है”. While these remedies can complement your diabetes management, consulting a healthcare expert is essential for a holistic approach to your well-being.

1. Karela For Diabetes

Bitter gourd, also known as karela, is a vegetable with several potential benefits that can be used as home remedies for diabetes:

  • Blood Sugar Regulation: Bitter gourd contains compounds like charantin and polypeptide-p that may help lower blood sugar levels. These compounds can increase the uptake of glucose by cells, reduce insulin resistance, and inhibit the conversion of sugar into glucose in the intestines.
  • Weight Management: Bitter gourd is low in calories and carbohydrates, making it a healthy addition to a diabetes-friendly diet. Its high fiber content promotes a feeling of fullness, helping to control appetite and potentially aid in weight management, which is crucial for diabetes control.
  • Antioxidant Properties: Bitter gourd is rich in antioxidants, including vitamin C, which can help reduce oxidative stress in the body. Oxidative stress is linked to various complications of diabetes, and antioxidants can help mitigate its effects.

How To Use Bitter Gourd For Diabetes Management:

  • Bitter Gourd Juice: One standard method is to extract the juice from bitter gourd and consume it on an empty stomach in the morning. It’s advisable to dilute the juice with water to reduce its bitterness and potential side effects. Start with a small amount as well as monitor your blood sugar response.
  • Bitter Gourd As A Vegetable: You can also include bitter gourd in your diet by cooking it as a vegetable. Bitter gourd can be stir-fried, stuffed, or added to curries and soups. Cooking can reduce its bitterness and make it more palatable.
  • Supplements: You should actively consider consulting with a healthcare provider before considering bitter gourd supplements, which are available in various forms like capsules and powders.

2. Amla For Diabetes

Amla, also known as Indian gooseberry, offers several powerful benefits for diabetes management:

  • Blood Sugar Control: Amla is rich in polyphenols, antioxidants, and vitamin C, which may help improve insulin sensitivity and lower blood sugar levels. Including amla in your diet can contribute to better glycemic control.
  • Prevention of Complications: Amla’s antioxidant properties can help reduce oxidative stress, which is associated with diabetes-related complications. By countering oxidative damage, amla may help protect against diabetic neuropathy, retinopathy, and cardiovascular issues.
  • Weight Management: Amla is low in calories and high in fiber, promoting a sense of fullness as well as aiding in weight management. Maintaining a healthy weight is vital for controlling blood sugar levels in diabetes.

To Use Amla For Diabetes Management:

  • Fresh Amla: You can consume fresh amla directly or make amla juice by blending it with water. Amla juice is known for its health benefits and can be consumed on an empty stomach in the morning.
  • Amla Powder: Amla powder is a convenient option and can be added to various dishes, and smoothies, or mixed with water for consumption. It’s readily available in most health food stores.
  • Amla Supplements: Amla supplements, such as capsules or tablets, are available and can be considered after consulting with a healthcare provider.

3. Neem For Diabetes

Neem (Azadirachta indica) is known for its potential home remedies for diabetes. Here are three powerful benefits of neem for diabetes and three ways to use it:

  • Blood Sugar Regulation: Neem leaves contain compounds that may help lower blood sugar levels. These compounds can stimulate insulin production and improve the body’s ability to use glucose. This can be particularly beneficial for people with type 2 diabetes.
  • Improved Insulin Sensitivity: Neem may enhance insulin sensitivity, reducing insulin resistance. This can be helpful in managing type 2 diabetes, as it allows the body to use insulin more effectively.
  • Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Effects: Neem has strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Diabetes is often associated with chronic inflammation and oxidative stress. Neem’s properties can help mitigate these effects and protect against diabetes-related complications.

To Use Neem For Diabetes Management:

  • Neem Leaf Tea: Make neem leaf tea by steeping a handful of washed neem leaves in hot water for a few minutes. Strain the leaves, and drink the infused water. You can consume this tea daily to potentially help regulate blood sugar levels.
  • Neem Capsules or Powder: Neem supplements in the form of capsules or powder are available in some health stores. These can be a convenient way to incorporate neem into your routine. However, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare professional before using neem supplements, as they can interact with other medications.
  • Neem Leaves in Cooking: Neem leaves can be incorporated into your diet by adding them to various dishes. Washed and finely chopped neem leaves can be added to salads, soups, or smoothies. This can help you benefit from neem’s potential blood sugar-regulating properties while also adding a unique flavor to your meals.

4. Tulsi For Diabetes

Tulsi, also known as holy basil (Ocimum sanctum or Ocimum tenuiflorum), is an herb with potential benefits for diabetes management. Here are three different benefits of tulsi for diabetes and three ways to use it:

  • Blood Sugar Regulation: Tulsi contains compounds like eugenol and flavonoids, which may help lower blood sugar levels. It can stimulate the pancreas to release more insulin, leading to improved blood sugar control. This effect is especially beneficial for individuals with type 2 diabetes.
  • Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Effects: Tulsi is rich in antioxidants that help reduce oxidative stress in the body. Oxidative stress and chronic inflammation are common in diabetes. By reducing these effects, tulsi may help protect against diabetes-related complications and improve overall health.
  • Stress Reduction: Stress can exacerbate diabetes symptoms and negatively impact blood sugar levels. Tulsi is considered an adaptogen, which means it can help the body adapt to stress. Consuming tulsi may help reduce stress and its impact on diabetes management.

How To Use Tulsi For Diabetes:

  • Tulsi Tea: Tulsi tea is a popular and easy way to incorporate holy basil into your daily routine. You can make tulsi tea by steeping fresh or dried tulsi leaves in hot water. Drink it as a soothing and potentially blood sugar-regulating beverage.
  • Tulsi Capsules or Supplements: Tulsi supplements, such as capsules or extract forms, are available in some health stores. These can be a convenient way to incorporate Tulsi into your daily regimen, especially if you don’t have access to fresh Tulsi leaves.
  • Fresh Tulsi Leaves in Cooking: Fresh tulsi leaves can be used in cooking to infuse dishes with their flavor and potential health benefits. You can add finely chopped tulsi leaves to salads, soups, or curries to make your meals more diabetes-friendly.

5. Methi Seeds For Diabetes

Methi seeds, also known as fenugreek seeds, have been traditionally used for their potential benefits in managing diabetes. Here are three different benefits of methi seeds for diabetes and three ways to use them:

  • Blood Sugar Regulation: Methi seeds contain soluble fiber and compounds like galactomannan, which can slow down the absorption of sugars in the stomach and improve blood sugar control. This is particularly beneficial for people with type 2 diabetes.
  • Improved Insulin Sensitivity: Methi seeds may enhance insulin sensitivity, allowing the body to use insulin more effectively. This can help reduce insulin resistance, a common issue in type 2 diabetes.
  • Antioxidant Properties: Methi seeds are rich in antioxidants, which can help reduce oxidative stress in the body. Diabetes is often associated with increased oxidative damage, and methi seeds’ antioxidant properties may help protect against diabetes-related complications.

How To Use Methi Seeds For Diabetes:

  • Methi Seed Water: Soak a teaspoon of methi seeds in a glass of water overnight. In the morning, drink the infused water on an empty stomach. This is a simple and effective way to incorporate methi water into your daily routine for potential blood sugar management.
  • Methi Seed Powder: You can grind methi seeds into a fine powder and use it as a spice or flavoring in your cooking. This can be added to various dishes, such as curries, soups, or stews, to impart both flavor and potential health benefits.
  • Methi Seed Capsules or Supplements: Methi seed supplements in the form of capsules or tablets are available in health stores. These can provide a convenient way to incorporate methi seeds into your routine, especially if you don’t enjoy the taste or texture of the seeds.

5 Best Ayurvedic Herbs For Diabetes 

Ayurvedic Herbs For Diabetes

Exploring Ayurvedic herbs for diabetes can be a valuable approach to complement traditional diabetes management. Herbs like bitter melon, fenugreek, and neem are known for their potential to regulate blood sugar levels and improve insulin sensitivity.

However, it’s essential to consult with a qualified Ayurvedic practitioner or healthcare professional to determine the right home remedies for diabetes and dosages for your specific condition, as individual responses can vary.

1. Cinnamon 

Cinnamon is a popular spice that may offer several benefits for people with diabetes. Here are three different benefits of cinnamon for diabetes and three ways to use it:

  • Improved Blood Sugar Control: Cinnamon contains compounds that can increase insulin sensitivity and help cells more effectively use glucose, thereby improving blood sugar control. This effect can be particularly helpful for those with type 2 diabetes.

    Antioxidant Properties: Cinnamon is rich in antioxidants, which can help reduce oxidative stress in the body. Lowering oxidative stress is important because diabetes is often associated with increased oxidative damage, and cinnamon’s antioxidants may help protect against diabetes-related complications.

    Reduced Post-Meal Blood Sugar Spikes: Consuming cinnamon with meals may slow down the rate at which the stomach empties, leading to a reduced post-meal increase in blood sugar levels. This can be beneficial in managing blood sugar spikes after eating.

How To Use Cinnamon For Diabetes

  • Cinnamon in Food: You can incorporate cinnamon into your daily or low carb diet for diabetics by adding it to various dishes. Sprinkle ground cinnamon on oatmeal, yogurt, and smoothies, or use it to flavor your coffee or tea. It can also be used in savory dishes like curries and stews.

    Cinnamon Tea: Make cinnamon tea by steeping a cinnamon stick or ground cinnamon in hot water. This fragrant tea is a simple and enjoyable way to benefit from the potential blood sugar-regulating effects of cinnamon.

    Cinnamon Supplements: Cinnamon supplements, typically available in capsule or powder form, are another option. However, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare professional before using cinnamon supplements, as their effectiveness and safety can vary, and they may interact with other medications.

2. Rosemary

Rosemary is a fragrant herb that offers several potential benefits for people with diabetes. Here are three different benefits of rosemary for diabetes and three ways to use it:

  • Blood Sugar Regulation: Rosemary contains compounds that may help regulate blood sugar levels. These compounds, such as rosmarinic acid, can enhance insulin sensitivity and promote better glucose utilization, which is essential for those with diabetes.
  • Anti-Inflammatory Properties: Chronic inflammation is linked to diabetes, and rosemary has anti-inflammatory properties. Reducing inflammation in the body may help in managing diabetes and its associated complications.
  • Antioxidant Effects: Rosemary is rich in antioxidants like carnosic acid, which can help reduce oxidative stress. Managing oxidative stress is important in diabetes care, as it can protect against cell damage and improve overall health.

How To Use Rosemary For Diabetes

  • Herbal Tea: You can make rosemary tea by steeping fresh or dried rosemary leaves in hot water. This fragrant herbal tea can be consumed daily to potentially benefit from its blood sugar-regulating properties.
  • Cooking and Seasoning: Use fresh or dried rosemary in your cooking as a flavorful seasoning. It pairs well with a variety of dishes, such as roasted vegetables, poultry, and fish. Incorporating rosemary into your meals is a tasty way to enjoy its potential health benefits.
  • Aromatherapy and Essential Oils: Rosemary essential oil can be used for aromatherapy and massage. Inhaling the aroma of rosemary essential oil may help reduce stress, which can indirectly benefit blood sugar management by reducing stress-related fluctuations.

3. Ginger

Ginger is a popular spice with potential benefits for people with diabetes. Here are three different benefits of ginger for diabetes and three ways to use it:

  • Reduced Risk of Heart Disease: Ginger can support heart health by lowering blood pressure and cholesterol levels, which are important for individuals with diabetes who have an increased risk of heart disease.
  • Digestive Aid: Ginger aids digestion and can alleviate gastrointestinal discomfort often experienced by people with diabetes.
  • Enhanced Immunity: Ginger’s immune-boosting properties can help people with diabetes, who may be more susceptible to infections.

How To Use Ginger For Diabetes:

  • Ginger Tea: A popular way to incorporate ginger into your daily routine. You can make ginger tea by steeping fresh ginger slices or ginger powder in hot water. Consuming ginger tea regularly may help with blood sugar management.
  • Culinary Use: You can use fresh ginger in your cooking. It adds a unique flavor to a variety of dishes, including stir-fries, curries, and soups. Adding ginger to your meals not only enhances their taste but also offers potential health benefits for diabetes.
  • Ginger Supplements: Supplements, such as capsules or extracts, are available in some health stores. These can provide a convenient way to incorporate ginger into your daily regimen. However, it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional before using ginger supplements to ensure they are safe and suitable for your specific condition and that they don’t interact with other medications you may be taking.

4. Giloy

Giloy is a powerful Ayurvedic herb that has many health benefits, including blood sugar regulation. Here are three different benefits of Giloy for diabetes and three ways to use it:

  • Improved Blood Sugar Control: Giloy contains compounds that help to improve insulin sensitivity and reduce inflammation, both of which can lead to better blood sugar control.
  • Antioxidant Properties: Giloy is a good source of antioxidants, which can help protect against damage caused by free radicals. This is important for people with diabetes, as they are at increased risk of oxidative stress.
  • Reduced Post-Meal Blood Sugar Spikes: Giloy may also help to reduce post-meal blood sugar spikes. This is thought to be due to its ability to slow down the digestion of carbohydrates.

How To Use Giloy For Diabetes?

  • Giloy Powder: Giloy powder is a convenient way to consume this herb. It can be added to water or juice to make a tea, or it can be taken in capsule form.
  • Giloy Juice: Giloy juice is another easy way to get the benefits of this herb. It can be consumed on its own or added to smoothies or other beverages.
  • Giloy Tablets: Giloy tablets are also available. These tablets are typically made from Giloy powder and other ingredients.

5. Turmeric

Due to its active compound, curcumin, which exhibits anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It may help lower blood sugar levels, improve insulin sensitivity, and reduce diabetes-related complications.

  • Heart Health: Curcumin may support cardiovascular health by improving cholesterol levels and reducing the risk of heart disease, which is a significant concern for people with diabetes.
  • Neuropathy and Kidney Protection: Some studies suggest that curcumin may help protect against diabetic neuropathy as well as kidney damage, which are common complications of diabetes.
  • Reduced Risk of Diabetes Complications: By mitigating inflammation as well as oxidative stress, curcumin can reduce the risk of various diabetes-related complications, including retinopathy, nephropathy, as well as cardiovascular issues.

How To Use Turmeric For Diabetes:

  • Turmeric Tea: Make turmeric tea by simmering water with fresh turmeric slices or turmeric powder. You can add other diabetes-friendly ingredients like cinnamon or ginger for flavor. Consuming this tea regularly may offer potential health benefits.
  • Incorporate Turmeric in Cooking: Use turmeric powder or fresh turmeric root. In Indian and Asian cuisine, turmeric finds common use, adding a distinctive flavor and color to dishes such as curries, soups, stews, and rice.
  • Turmeric Golden Milk: People commonly enjoy turmeric milk and adding spices like cinnamon and black pepper to create a popular beverage. It’s a delicious way to incorporate turmeric into your daily routine.

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Wrapping It Up

Home remedies for diabetes and home-cooked food have proven to be effective allies in the management of diabetes. While specific statistics on the impact of these methods can vary, the broader trend is encouraging. Studies show that individuals who embrace homemade meals often have better control over their carbohydrate intake, an essential aspect of diabetes management.

Additionally, incorporating home remedies such as turmeric, fenugreek, and bitter melon into one’s diet has demonstrated potential benefits, including improved blood sugar regulation and reduced complications associated with diabetes.

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Fun Fact

Do you know? Soya Chaap is a highly processed food that is often prepared in unhygienic conditions. If you want to consume soy, try to get fresh soybeans instead of soy by-products.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Diabetes Be Treated At Home?

Yes! People with diabetes can maintain their health through home monitoring of blood sugar levels, proper diet as well as portion control, regular exercise, and, in some cases, the use of prescribed medications or insulin.

What Are The Early Signs And Symptoms Of Diabetes?

Early signs and symptoms of diabetes may include increased thirst as well as hunger, frequent urination, unexplained weight loss, fatigue, blurred vision, and slow wound healing.

What Is The Best Food For Diabetes Patient?

These often include dietary changes, such as consuming foods with low glycemic index (GI) and increasing fiber intake. Incorporating specific spices like turmeric and fenugreek into your cooking may help regulate blood sugar levels.

How Can I Use Fenugreek For Diabetes Control At Home?

To use fenugreek for diabetes control at home, you can soak fenugreek seeds in water overnight as well as consume them in the morning to potentially help regulate blood sugar levels. Alternatively, incorporate fenugreek seeds or leaves into your cooking, adding a unique flavor to dishes like curries and soups.

Is It Safe To Use Herbal Supplements As Remedies For Diabetes Management?

When seeking to manage diabetes, actively using herbal supplements and healthy drinks for diabetes as antidotes can be both safe and effective. However, it’s crucial to approach this with caution and seek guidance from a healthcare professional. Herbal supplements, such as fenugreek, cinnamon, or bitter melon, may have interactions with medications and can affect blood sugar levels.

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We’re never leaving you hanging with doubts, queries, as well as confusing questions. We understand how all this information gets really overwhelming as well as a little confusing on your way to a healthy lifestyle. Hence, you can always contact us at any time as our experts are here to guide you 24/7. Also, we will help you achieve your weight loss goals.

Disclaimer

This blog post was written to help you to make healthy and better food choices altogether. So, be aware and take care. The important thing to consider is your own health before starting a diet that is restrictive. Always seek advice from a doctor/dietitian before starting if you have any concerns.

Eat Healthy, Live Healthy as well as Enjoy a long happy life!

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