Can We Take Ayurvedic and English Medicine Together for Diabetes? Is It Safe and Effective? - #13353
I am currently managing Type 2 diabetes with conventional (English) medicine and am interested in exploring Ayurvedic treatments to complement my current medication. I want to know whether it’s safe to combine Ayurvedic medicine with allopathic treatments like insulin or oral hypoglycemic drugs for diabetes management. Some Ayurvedic treatments for diabetes include herbal remedies like Gurmar, Jamun, and Triphala, which are known to help lower blood sugar levels, improve insulin sensitivity, and support pancreatic function. However, I am concerned about interactions between Ayurvedic remedies and prescription medications, and whether it is safe to use both. If anyone has experience with combining Ayurvedic and English medicine for diabetes, please share your experience. Did the Ayurvedic treatments help in controlling blood sugar, reducing insulin needs, or improving energy levels? Were there any side effects or precautions to consider when using both types of medicine?
100% Anonymous
completely confidential.
No sign-up needed.

Doctors’ responses
Ayurvedic remedies like Gurmar, Jamun, and Triphala can help lower blood sugar, improve insulin sensitivity, and support pancreatic function. However, combining them with allopathic diabetes medications requires caution to avoid excessive blood sugar drops (hypoglycemia).
Best approach: Consult both an Ayurvedic doctor and your regular physician before starting. Many people report better energy, improved sugar control, and reduced dependency on medications over time, but results vary.
Sounds like you’re really trying to get a grasp on managing your diabetes while looking at both English and Ayurvedic treatments, which is smart, really. The question about combining them? Well, it’s quite common for folks to explore both paths. It can be safe to integrate Ayurvedic and allopathic medicine, but it’s pretty crucial that both your conventional doc and an experienced Ayurvedic physician know what you’re doing.
Herbs like Gurmar, often called the “sugar destroyer”, Jamun seeds, and Triphala can support your current regimen by possibly aiding with insulin sensitivity and pancreas function. But, as with anything, the devil’s in the details - balancing how and when you take these with your English meds is quite essential. There’s definitely a risk here of potentiating (fancy word for enhancing) the effect of insulin or oral hypoglycemics, which could lead to hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), not fun at all.
It’s all about finding that balance. Say you’re considering Gurmar; it might be helpful to see how your body fruits (or responds) under monitored conditions, preferably with frequent blood sugar checks, probably more than you’d like initially. It’s all for a good cause though, making sure you don’t end up feeling crummy. Slowly introducing these herbs under watchful eyes can provide clarity, both to see benefits and catch any bumps on the road.
Some folks experience improved energy levels and notice decreased insulin doses over time, but how indiviual’s body responds can be as different as night and day. So really, it’s trial and see. Keep track of any changes in your body’s reactions like tremors, dizziness, or unusual fatigue.
Important: never ever stop prescribed treatments abruptly unless advised by your doc, as inconsistencies here can tennis-ball an imbalance. The goal is always harmony rather than abrupt changes, and while Ayurveda can offer a gentle hand, make sure it’s the right fit for you. Just be sure your ahara (diet) and vihara (lifestyle) align too; they pack a powerful punch in both Ayurveda and western medicine for diabetes care.
With the right mix of guidance and adjustments, you might find these working quite harmoniously!

100% Anonymous
600+ certified Ayurvedic experts. No sign-up.
About our doctors
Only qualified ayurvedic doctors who have confirmed the availability of medical education and other certificates of medical practice consult on our service. You can check the qualification confirmation in the doctor's profile.