Ayurvedic approach to diabetes mellitus: A comprehensive review of prameha and madhumeha

Diabetes mellitus is a chronic metabolic disorder characterized by persistent hyperglycaemia and is associated with serious complications. In Ayurveda, it may be broadly correlated with Madhumeha, an advanced form of Prameha involving disturbed Doshas, impaired Agni, and vitiation of Meda, Mamsa, Kleda, and Ojas. Major causative factors include an unhealthy diet, sedentary lifestyle, excessive sleep, obesity, and genetic predisposition. Ayurvedic management emphasizes Nidana Parivarjana, dietary regulation, exercise, Shodhana, Shamana, and individualized treatment according to the patient’s constitution and disease stage. This review discusses the Ayurvedic understanding of diabetes, including its etiology, pathogenesis, clinical features, prevention, and management. Integrating appropriate Ayurvedic dietary and lifestyle measures with standard diabetes care may support comprehensive management; however, further clinical research is required to establish the safety and efficacy of specific interventions.