A LITERATURE REVIEW ON MADHUMEHA WITH SPECIAL REFRENCE TO TYPE 2 DIABETES MELLITUS

About Author

Correspondence Address

Dr. Narmada Meshram
Kaychikitsa department,Pakwasa Samanvaya Rugnalaya,Shri Ayurved Mahavidyalaya Hanuman Nagar Nagpur
Contact No. : 8600242556, Email : narmada.meshram1997@gmail.com

Date of Acceptance : 27 Jun 2025

Date of Publication : 29 Jun 2025

Article ID : SD-IJAY_137

How to cite this article : http://doi.org/10.55552/SDNJAY.2025.3207

Abstract

Madhumeha, commonly known as Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus in modern medical science, is a condition described in Ayurveda under the category of Vataj Prameha. This disease is characterised by the excessive passage of urine that is sweet, astringent in taste, slightly turbid, and pale in colour. Madhumeha can be correlated with diabetes mellitus in contemporary medicine. Today, it is often referred to as a silent killer due to its gradual onset and severe complications if left untreated. According to Ayurveda, Madhumeha can be effectively managed through dietary modifications, regular exercise, and appropriate medication. Ayurveda, the ancient Indian healthcare system, has been practised since the beginning of civilisation and offers holistic approaches for managing chronic diseases like Madhumeha. Lifestyle illnesses such as DM have become more serious and are increasing dramatically worldwide. Type-2 diabetes is responsible for about 80% of the cases. Clinical symptoms and prognosis of Madhumeha are similar to diabetes mellitus.

KEY WORDS:-  Diabetes Mellitus, Madhumeha, Prameha, Vataj, Pittaj, Kaphaj.

Introduction

Prameha is described as a group of disorders marked by increased frequency and volume of urination, often accompanied by turbid urine. According to the Acharyas, in Madhumeha, there is a vitiation of Vata-Kapha-dominant Tridosha, involving Meda (fat tissue), other Dhatus (body tissues), and Ojas (vital essence) as the Dushya (affected components), which are excreted through the Mutravaha Srotas (urinary channels). A similar condition in modern medical science is known as diabetes mellitus. Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) comprises a group of metabolic disorders characterised by persistent hyperglycaemia, excessive urination (polyuria), excessive thirst (polydipsia), increased hunger (polyphagia), weight loss, and fatigue. These symptoms result from disturbances in carbohydrate, fat, and protein metabolism due to a relative or absolute deficiency in insulin secretion and/or action.^[1] Diabetes Mellitus has recently emerged as a major global health concern, often referred to as a “silent killer” due to its subtle onset and serious long-term effects. The World Health Organisation (WHO) has identified India as the country with the fastest-growing diabetic population. It is projected that between 1995 and 2025, the number of diabetic patients in India will increase by 195%. One of the main challenges with diabetes is its difficulty to detect in the early stages. However, adopting an Ayurvedic preventive approach from the outset can significantly reduce the risk of developing the condition or help manage it effectively if already diagnosed. Diabetes Mellitus is a medical condition characterised by elevated levels of glucose in the blood and urine, a state referred to as hyperglycaemia. The term "diabetes" originates from the Greek word meaning “to syphon through", while "mellitus" is derived from the Latin word meaning “sweetened with honey”, indicating the presence of sugar in the urine. This disorder is metabolic in nature and primarily results from the malfunctioning of the pancreas, which fails to produce adequate amounts of insulin, the hormone responsible for regulating blood sugar levels.^[2]

Discussion

Madhumeha, categorised under Vataj Prameha, is primarily a disorder of the Mutravaha Srotasa with Kapha predominance. It closely resembles the modern condition known as diabetes mellitus. Although diabetes is often perceived as a modern health issue, it is not a newly emerged disease. Its prevalence has increased significantly in recent times, largely due to sedentary lifestyles and rising rates of obesity. Madhumeha can be effectively prevented by adopting appropriate lifestyle changes, regulating diet, and managing body weight. In the present study, a specially designed Ayurvedic dietary and lifestyle regimen demonstrated the potential to help maintain the glycaemic levels in patients with Madhumeha (diabetes

mellitus). The rapid increase in diabetes cases is closely linked to a growing trend of physical inactivity and poor dietary habits. However, Ayurveda offers a holistic approach for prevention through various measures such as Aharavidhi (dietary principles), Dincharya (daily regimen), Ritucharya (seasonal regimen), and specific therapeutic interventions. By implementing these Ayurvedic principles—through a balanced diet, routine, physical activity, and appropriate medications—Madhumeha (diabetes mellitus) can be managed effectively and even prevented in many cases.

Conclusion

Madhumeha (Diabetes Mellitus) can be conservatively managed through appropriate modifications in diet, physical activity, medication, and lifestyle. These factors play a crucial role in the successful management of Type 2 diabetes and are deeply rooted in the traditional Indian system of medicine—Ayurveda. A disease similar to Madhumeha has been described in modern medicine as diabetes mellitus, which has now become one of the most prominent silent killers worldwide. Ayurveda mentions numerous medicinal herbs and formulations that have shown effectiveness in managing diabetes. Recent research has further validated the efficacy of these Ayurvedic herbal remedies, demonstrating that they are generally safe for long-term use. However, their effectiveness is usually limited to cases of mild to moderate diabetes and may reduce over prolonged use. To effectively treat a patient with Madhumeha, a physician must possess comprehensive knowledge of its various aspects—such as Nidana (aetiology), Roopa (symptoms), Poorvaroopa (prodromal symptoms), Samprapti (pathogenesis), Chikitsa Yoga (treatment formulations), Sadhyasadhyata (prognosis), and Arishtalakshana (fatal signs)—as described in the Samhitas, Nighantus, and other classical Ayurvedic texts.

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