Ayurveda, the ancient science of life, believes in the profound healing power of nature. This holistic system utilizes natural ingredients to create remedies, including those for managing blood sugar levels and improving overall health in diabetes.

Try the following recipes for time-tested Ayurvedic home remedies that can support diabetes management.

Fenugreek Herbal Tea

Fenugreek seeds are renowned in Ayurveda for their potential to improve glucose tolerance, while fennel and coriander seeds offer digestive and anti-inflammatory benefits. This herbal tea combines these three potent ingredients to support healthy blood sugar levels and overall well-being.

Recipe:

• Boil 1/2 teaspoon each of fenugreek, fennel, and coriander seeds in 2 cups of water for 10 minutes.
• Strain and drink warm twice a day.

Bitter Gourd Juice

Bitter gourd is renowned in Ayurveda for its potential in reducing blood sugar levels in both blood and urine.

Recipe:

• Extract juice from fresh bitter gourd.
• Consume at least one tablespoon daily.

Bitter Gourd and Indian Gooseberry Juice Blend

This combination leverages the benefits of both bitter gourd and Indian Gooseberry (Amla), which is rich in vitamin C and antioxidants.This blend is believed to support pancreatic function, potentially aiding insulin secretion.
Recipe:

• Mix 1 cup of fresh bitter gourd juice with 1 tablespoon of Indian gooseberry juice.
• Consume daily for at least two months.

Indian Gooseberry and Turmeric Salad

This simple salad combines the vitamin C-rich Indian gooseberry with anti-inflammatory turmeric to aid digestion and provide a dose of antioxidants to support overall health.
Recipe:

• Chop 2-3 Indian gooseberries and 2-3 inches of fresh turmeric into small pieces.
• Mix them to create a tangy and slightly spicy salad.
• Consume 30 minutes before lunch or dinner.

Guduchi, Amalaki, and Gokshura Tonic

This powerful blend combines three Ayurvedic herbs known for their potential to support blood sugar regulation, boost immunity, and promote overall well-being.

Recipe:

• Mix equal parts of powdered Guduchi (Tinospora cordifolia), Amalaki (Emblica Officinalis), and Gokshura (Tribulus terrestris).
• Add 1 teaspoon of the mixture to 1 glass of hot water.
• Consume twice daily, preferably on an empty stomach.

Bay Leaf and Turmeric Elixir

This simple yet potent combination harnesses the blood sugar-balancing properties of bay leaf and the anti-inflammatory benefits of turmeric.

Recipe:

• Mix half a teaspoon each of ground bay leaf and turmeric powder.
• Consume the mixture twice daily, once before lunch and once before dinner.
• If desired, you can mix it with a small amount of warm water or sprinkle over food.

Jamun Seed Power Drink

Jamun, or java plum, is renowned in Ayurveda for its potential to support healthy blood sugar levels, particularly its seeds.

Recipe:

• Grind dried Jamun fruit and seeds into a fine powder.
• Mix 5 grams of the powder in a glass of warm water.
• Drink twice daily, preferably on an empty stomach.

Triphala-Turmeric Detox Drink

This drink combines the detoxifying properties of Triphala with the anti-inflammatory effects of turmeric to support overall health and potentially aid in blood sugar management.

Recipe:

• Mix 10 grams of Triphala powder with 5 grams of turmeric powder.
• Add the mixture to 50 ml of hot water and stir well.
• Consume twice daily, preferably on an empty stomach.

These Ayurvedic remedies and recipes offer beneficial ways to support your diabetes management while adding variety to your diet. Note—they should complement, not replace, your prescribed diabetes management plan. Always follow your healthcare provider’s advice regarding medication and dietary guidelines.

A holistic approach that includes a balanced diet, regular exercise, stress management, and proper medical care is key to effectively managing diabetes.

Aparna K. BAMS, MD, PhD

Aparna is one of the few specialists worldwide with a PhD in Ayurveda. Born into an Ayurvedic family which operates a traditional Ayurvedic Panchakarma hospital in Kerala, India, she grew up observing her father, the renowned Dr Padmanabhan.