“Between 2000 and 2019, there was a 3% increase in age-standardized mortality rates from diabetes. In lower-middle-income countries, the mortality rate due to diabetes increased 13%.” - WHO
The prevalence of diabetes continues to rise globally, urging a more comprehensive and individualized approach to its management. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), renowned for its holistic perspective and tailored therapies, provides an alternative and advantageous route to tackling diabetes. Beyond focusing solely on blood sugar control, TCM addresses the root causes, personalizing treatment plans, and enhancing overall well-being—yielding several benefits that extend beyond conventional methods.
Root-Cause Resolution:
Central to TCM's philosophy is addressing the underlying causes of diseases. In diabetes, TCM identifies Yin deficiency, Spleen weakness, and Blood stasis as key factors. The integration of Yin and Qi nourishment with enhanced blood circulation forms the core of TCM's comprehensive approach, striking at the heart of diabetes' origins.
Harmonizing the Entire System:
TCM's strength lies in its ability to balance the body holistically. While regulating blood sugar, TCM employs herbal remedies and therapies to strengthen Qi, replenish Yin, and improve Blood circulation. This approach not only aids in glucose control but also fortifies the body's constitution, alleviating chronic fatigue and boosting overall vitality. Though TCM's impact on blood sugar might be gradual, its influence on overall health is profound.
Preventing and Managing Complications:
With a history spanning over two millennia, TCM boasts a wealth of experience in preventing and managing diabetes and its associated complications. By incorporating traditional diagnostics and targeted herbal treatments, TCM has proven effective in reducing mortality and disability rates related to diabetic complications like nephropathy, retinopathy, and neuropathy.
Supplementary to Conventional Medications:
For type 2 diabetes patients encountering challenges with oral hypoglycemic drugs, TCM offers a supplementary avenue. By aiding in blood sugar management and mitigating medication side effects, TCM serves as a supportive element in diabetes care. Its multifaceted herbal components influence gluco se metabolism through diverse pathways, enhancing overall glycemic control.
Enhanced Quality of Life:
One of TCM's most significant advantages in diabetes treatment is its emphasis on personalized care and addressing symptoms beyond glucose levels. Through individualized diagnosis and treatment, TCM aims to improve quality of life by addressing fatigue, sleep disturbances, mood swings, and other common diabetic symptoms. By honing in on these aspects, TCM helps patients achieve an improved sense of well-being.
Herbs that Commonly used in treating with diabetes in Chinese Medicine:
1. Kudzu Root (Ge Gen):
Ge Gen, derived from the kudzu plant, has displayed potential in lowering blood sugar levels. Studies have revealed that kudzu root decoctions exhibit therapeutic effects on diabetic animal models by significantly reducing fasting blood glucose and serum insulin levels. This herb also aids in diminishing serum free fatty acids and inflammatory factors, thereby enhancing insulin sensitivity.
2. Anemarrhena Rhizome (Zhi Mu):
Zhi Mu, has demonstrated its ability to inhibit the activity of alpha-glucosidase, an enzyme responsible for carbohydrate digestion and absorption. Extracts from Zhi Mu have been found to increase liver glycogen synthesis, reduce glycogen breakdown, and subsequently lower blood sugar levels in animal models. This herb's interventions also contribute to improving insulin resistance.
3. Coptis Rhizome (Huang Lian):
Huang Lian, derived from various plants like Coptis chinensis, is recognized for its potential in blood sugar regulation. Coptis extracts have been shown to lower blood glucose levels in normal mice. Berberine, a compound found in Coptis, not only counters glucose elevation induced by glucose or adrenaline but also inhibits gluconeogenesis and stimulates pancreatic islet cell regeneration. These mechanisms collectively lead to improved blood sugar control.
4. Dogwood Fruit (Shan Zhu Yu):
Shan Zhu Yu, the mature dried fruit of Cornus officinalis, holds promise as a blood sugar-controlling herb. Extracts from dogwood fruit have been observed to significantly reduce blood glucose levels in diabetic mice. These extracts are associated with elevated serum insulin levels, contributing to improved glucose metabolism. Moreover, ethanolic extracts of dogwood fruit exhibit postprandial blood glucose reduction and stimulate pancreatic islet cell proliferation.
Note: Incorporating these herbs should be guided by qualified healthcare professionals. While these herbs offer promising results, they are best utilized within a comprehensive treatment plan under medical supervision.
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