AYURVEDIC MANAGEMENT OF PRAMEHA (DIABETES MELLITUS) - A SINGLE CASE STUDY

Diabetes Mellitus (DM) Type 2 stands as one of the major global health challenges of our time. It is expected to persist as a significant health concern, accompanied by severe complications. India ranks among the top five nations with the highest prevalence of DM patients. According to the IDF Diabetes Atlas (2021) report, 10.5% of the adult population (aged 20–79 years) has diabetes, and nearly half of them remain unaware that they are living with this condition. Based on IDF projections, by 2045, one in every eight adults—totaling approximately 783 million people—will be living with diabetes; this represents a projected increase of 46%.[1] Diabetes can be correlated with the Ayurvedic concept of Prameha. In Ayurveda, both preventive and curative approaches are outlined for the management of Prameha. Ayurvedic practice recommends the judicious use of Ayurvedic medications alongside the adoption of an appropriate Pathya Ahara (diet) and Vihara (lifestyle). Based on these very principles, a patient was treated in an outpatient department (OPD) setting; this case report presents an analysis of that treatment. A 42-year-old male patient, diagnosed with Prameha five years prior, presented with complaints including dryness of the mouth, frequent urination, excessive thirst, generalized body weakness, and a burning sensation in the soles of his feet. The treatment plan entailed the administration of Shamana Chikitsa (palliative therapy) for a period of three months, strictly accompanied by the adherence to a suitable Pathya Ahara and Vihara. Following the three-month treatment period, the clinical outcomes were evaluated and compared. A significant reduction was observed in symptoms such as the burning sensation, excessive thirst, and frequent urination.