Diabetes can cause diabetic neuropathy, a form of nerve damage. Numerous Ayurvedic therapeutic techniques, including massage, yoga, and herbal supplements, may help control symptoms.

High blood sugar levels can harm your body’s nerves, leading to diabetic neuropathy. Your hands, legs, and feet may become numb and painful as a result.

To alleviate symptoms, diabetic neuropathy treatment focuses on treating the underlying cause.

According to research, including a 2023 case study, the ancient Indian medical method known as Ayurvedic medicine may be able to assist in controlling symptoms.

However, more thorough studies are still required to clarify the precise benefits of Ayurveda on neuropathy. It can be wise to consult a physician before contemplating Ayurvedic therapy methods. They can assist you in determining whether it is appropriate for your particular symptoms and safe.

Find out more about the various Ayurvedic treatment choices and how beneficial they are overall.

Triphala

An age-old Ayurvedic remedy that has been utilized for generations is Triphala. Numerous medical ailments, including wound care and dental disorders, have been proven to benefit from it.

Three plants are used to make it:

• black myrobalan (Terminalia chebula)
• Indian gooseberry (Emblica officinalis)
• belleric myrobalan (Terminalia bellirica)

By reducing blood sugar and cholesterol, Triphala may also aid with type 2 diabetes and repair nerve damage. However, there hasn’t been much research done in this field, so more investigation is required to see whether it can be a useful treatment for diabetic neuropathy.

It can be purchased as tablets, powders, or capsules. Triphala has no general recommended dosage.

Although Triphala is generally regarded as safe, pregnant women and those who are nursing or chestfeeding should not consume it.

Abhyanga

A complete body massage using heated oil is called abhyanga. Stimulating the autonomic nerve system is one of its many advantages.

According to a 2022 study examining massage’s benefits on diabetics, it may:

• improve blood circulation and blood supply in the body
• increase the range of motion of joints
• improve an individual’s pain threshold

According to a different 2022 study, massage therapy may significantly improve diabetic neuropathy symptoms that have appeared in the foot. The authors of the study concluded that it might be suggested as a successful substitute for in-home care for diabetics.

The quality of your skin may determine which kind of oil is best for you. For instance, suppose you possess:

• Dry skin: sandalwood and chamomile
• Oily skin: rosemary and geranium
• Sensitive skin: lavender

Before utilizing the aforementioned oils, it is crucial to always dilute them with a carrier oil.

The FDA does not oversee or control the quality or purity of essential oils, despite research indicating they may have health advantages. Before utilizing essential oils, it’s advisable to consult a healthcare provider. You should also be sure to investigate the caliber of a brand’s products. Before using a new essential oil, always perform a patch test.

Yoga

Making lifestyle adjustments, including doing yoga daily, is a crucial component of Ayurvedic treatment.

According to research from 2023, yoga may improve overall quality of life by reducing inflammation and discomfort levels associated with neuropathic pain.

In 2024, 30 individuals with diabetes and neuropathy participated in a pilot trial to see if yoga helped alleviate diabetic neuropathy symptoms. Over eight weeks, there were three weekly yoga sessions in addition to at-home practice the remaining days.

When compared to medicine, the study found that yoga may be a useful alternative therapy for people with diabetic neuropathy.

People with nerve damage may benefit from hatha yoga in particular because it incorporates slow motions like:

• Mountain Pose (Tadasana)
• Child’s Pose (Balasana)
• Corpse Pose (Savasana)
• Cobra (Bhujangasana)
• Downward-Facing Dog (Adho Mukha Svanasana)

It’s crucial to practice yoga carefully if you have neuropathic pain and to avoid pushing yourself if a pose hurts. You can adjust each stance to your comfort level. Certain poses, for instance, can be performed while seated or with the help of a cushion or other prop.

Sattvavajaya

A form of Ayurvedic psychotherapy called sattvavajaya seeks to lessen stress and swap out negative thought patterns for constructive ones.

The Sanskrit term Sattvavajaya is a combination of the terms “Sattva,” which means the mind, and “Avajaya,” which means control.

Diabetic neuropathy-related nerve discomfort can be considerably exacerbated by stress. This implies that developing stress management skills may help lessen symptoms, offer comfort, and enhance the general quality of life.

Relieving stress can also aid in the release of stiff muscles, which may lessen bodily pain.

Ashwagandha

The shrub ashwagandha, botanically known as Withania somnifera, is indigenous to the Middle East and South Asia. The plant is popular and has several health advantages, including reducing inflammation in the body, which can aid with nerve pain, and relieving stress and anxiety.

Ashwagandha contains antihyperalgesic qualities, which suggests it may help lower pain levels from neuropathic pain, according to a 2018 study conducted on mice.

It’s crucial to remember that these advantages come from research that only looks at animals. More excellent research is required to comprehend Ashwagandha’s effects on people.

For up to three months, ashwagandha is usually regarded as safe when used as a short-term remedy. Although they are uncommon, side effects like nausea, vomiting, and sleepiness are possible.

When to speak with a doctor

Consult a healthcare provider if you have diabetic neuropathy and are dealing with nerve discomfort that interferes with your daily activities or is growing worse.

They can assess your symptoms and recommend a customized treatment plan that could help you feel less pain and feel better overall.

The takeaway

According to research, diabetic neuropathy symptoms may be easier to manage with Ayurvedic treatment. Massage, herbal supplements, and yoga are popular choices.

However, more investigation is still required to clarify the precise long-term impacts of the aforementioned techniques.

Consult a healthcare provider if you notice that your symptoms are getting worse or aren’t going away.