In the present day and age, if there is one ailment that plagues the majority of the population in India, be it young or old, it is diabetes. And unfortunately, this chronic disorder characterised by high blood sugar levels also triggers myriad health complications, one of the most prominent being diabetic neuropathy.
Also Read: Diabetic Neuropathy: Causes, Symptoms And Treatment
With constantly elevated blood glucose concentrations, the tissues in the nervous system are invariably injured. This results in nerve damage in the body, particularly in the extremities of the feet – a condition termed as diabetic neuropathy. Besides triggering related issues of foot ulcers and loss of sensation, numbness in legs and feet, diabetic neuropathy also heightens the risk of irregular heartbeats or arrhythmia, urinary incontinence, high blood pressure i.e. hypertension, digestive disorders and even reduced sexual functions in both men and women. Furthermore, it prompts discomforting indications of tingling sensation in hands, hazy or double vision and poor concentration, memory and focus.
Also Read: Ayurveda For Hypertension: Excellent Natural Remedies To Reduce High Blood Pressure
Thanks to Ayurveda, the age-old Indian system of medicine, a plethora of herbs are documented in the renowned manuscripts of Charaka Samhita, Ashtanga Hridaya, Sushruta Samhita, which heal signs of diabetic neuropathy and effectively bring down blood sugar levels for better management of diabetes.
Fantastic Herbs To Heal Damaged Nerves In Diabetes:
1. Karela
Karela or bitter gourd, scientifically termed Momordica charantia, is a marvellous ayurvedic remedy for managing diabetes symptoms. Drinking a small portion of karela juice is proven to effectively lower blood sugar levels and improve insulin functions, due to the bioactive compound polypeptide-2, which houses hypoglycemic qualities. This in turn reduces the decline in nerve function and alleviates diabetic neuropathy.
2. Ajwain
The tiny aromatic ajwain seeds, bearing the botanical name Trachyspermum ammi, confer outstanding incentives for tackling diabetes symptoms. Blessed with carminative traits and potent plant-based compounds, ajwain water helps in mitigating indigestion, bloating, flatulence. In this manner, ajwain promotes healthy digestion and combats gut problems arising from diabetic neuropathy.
3. Gurmar
Gurmar is a time-tested ayurvedic solution for diabetes mellitus. Imbued with ample antidiabetic constituents, gurmar, clad by the scientific name Gymnema sylvestre significantly improve insulin response, enhance insulin secretion from the beta cells in the pancreas and control sudden spikes in blood sugar levels after meals. Furthermore, gurmar aids in weight loss, obesity management and decreases the discomforting signs of diabetic neuropathy.
4. Ashwagandha
Ashwagandha, designated as Withania somnifera in botany, is a rejuvenative herb that holds potent properties to heal a host of health woes, including diabetic neuropathy. Consuming ashwagandha powder decoctions in warm water remarkably improves blood flow to the nerves, relaxes the strained muscles, helps overcome fatigue and improves stamina in diabetics.
5. Paneer Dodi
Panner dodi, otherwise referred to as Indian rennet and scientifically termed Withania coagulans is an ancient remedy for resolving diabetes and the accompanying condition of diabetic neuropathy. This herb comprises astounding phytonutrients with anti-hyperglycemic characteristics that work wonders in bringing down post-prandial blood sugar levels, besides repairing damaged beta pancreatic cells to augment insulin secretion and glucose absorption.Additional Ways To Treat Nerve Damage
We know that a healthy diet helps control blood sugar and treat nerve damage. In some cases, dietary supplements may play a role too. Talk with your healthcare professional before you add a supplement to your healthy eating plan to ensure that adding supplements might be the right plan for you. Amongst many, one such supplement that can help treat this health problem, Alpha-lipoic acid is one powerful supplement.
An antioxidant found in many foods; it helps to manage a process that damages tissues called oxidative stress which may be a part of the diabetic neuropathy disease process. Alpha-lipoic acid helps to improve diabetic neuropathy pain and alleviate nerve-related symptoms such as numbness and tingling. Vitamin B-12 is found in some foods and our body needs this nutrient to make red blood cells, nerve cells, and DNA. Vitamin B-12 deficient patients may display a higher risk of nervous system issues.
A healthy diet is the key besides dietary supplements to treat nerve damage. Eat a balanced diet with foods low in fat and calories along with vegetables, fruits, legumes, and whole grains. Lean meats, fish, and poultry without the skin can also improve diabetic neuropathy and treat nerve damage.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is The Best Treatment For Diabetic Neuropathy In Ayurveda?
In Ayurveda, diabetic neuropathy is often linked to “Madhumeha” (diabetes) and “Vatavyadhi” (nerve disorders) caused by aggravated Vata dosha and impaired metabolism. Treatment usually includes:
Ashwagandha, Shatavari, Guduchi, Turmeric, and Triphala are recommended that are known to reduce oxidative stress and inflammation.
Abhyanga (oil massage with sesame or medicated oils like Dashmoola or Bala taila) and Kati basti therapies help to improve circulation and nerve strength.
Light, fiber-rich, low-sugar diet with warm, and easily digestible foods are usually suggested.
Gentle practices like anulom-vilom and restorative yoga to enhance blood flow and calm the nervous system.
These approaches may relieve symptoms like pain, tingling, and numbness, but they are complementary and not a replacement for standard diabetic management.
Can Ayurveda Repair Nerve Damage?
Ayurveda may not fully reverse nerve damage, especially in advanced diabetic neuropathy. However, Ayurvedic therapies aim to:
Improve blood circulation to nerves.
Reduce oxidative stress and inflammation.
Strengthen nerve tissue (Majja dhatu) with rejuvenating herbs (Rasayanas).
How To Heal Diabetic Nerve Damage Naturally?
Natural approaches to managing diabetic neuropathy include:
Strict blood sugar control is the most important.
Regular exercise like walking or yoga to improve circulation.
Adding nutrient-rich foods like vitamin B12 (from dairy, legumes, fortified foods), Omega-3 (flaxseeds, walnuts, fish), and antioxidants (fruits, leafy greens).
Meditation, breathing practices, and adequate sleep helps to ease stress and relaxes the mind.
Ayurvedic herbs like ashwagandha, turmeric, guduchi, and shilajit may help protect nerve function.
These methods support healing and reduce symptoms but should be combined with medical guidance.
Is Ashwagandha Good For Diabetic Neuropathy?
Yes. Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) is considered one of the best Ayurvedic herbs for nerve health because it is:
Helps reduce oxidative stress on nerves.
Balances stress hormones that worsen diabetic complications.
Eases nerve pain and tingling.
Strengthens tissues and supports energy.
It may help improve nerve function, reduce pain, and enhance overall vitality in diabetic neuropathy.
Can Ashwagandha Repair Nerve Damage?
Ashwagandha cannot completely repair severely damaged nerves, but studies suggest it promotes:
Nerve regeneration through antioxidant activity.
Myelin sheath repair (protective covering around nerves).
Improved nerve conduction and reduced symptoms like burning or numbness.
(This article is reviewed by Kalyani Krishna Chief Content Editor)
Author Profile
M Sowmya Binu:
With over 15 years of experience and a Postgraduate Degree in Nutrition, M Sowmya Binu is a seasoned professional. She specializes in creating personalized diet plans, emphasizing the integration of medication with dietary intake for overall wellness. Passionate about educating individuals, Sowmya develops insightful content covering food, nutrition, supplements, and health.
References:
Diabetic neuropathy
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Department of Neurology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA. Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Metabolism, Endocrinology and Diabetes (MEND), University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7096070/
2.https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/medicine-and-dentistry/diabetic-neuropathy
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