Effect of takradhara and ayurvedic internal medications on stress associated worsening of glycemic control in a patient with type 2 diabetes mellitus: a case report

Diabetes is a chronic health condition characterized by impaired glucose regulation, which may result from inadequate insulin production or ineffective utilization of insulin. Uncontrolled diabetes can lead to complications affecting multiple organs, while psychological stress may further worsen glycemic control and quality of life. This case report describes a 61-year-old female patient with elevated blood glucose levels, emotional stress, and persistent fatigue who was admitted to the Kayachikitsa IPD of Vaidyaratnam Ayurveda College on 12/08/2024. The patient was assessed using the Quality-of-Life Instrument for Indian Diabetes Patients (QOLID). Management was primarily based on Prameha Chikitsa, with consideration of the Manovaha Srotas, using Nisakathakadi Kashaya, Chitrakatriphaladi Kashaya Choorna, Pramehoushadhi tablets, Chandraprabha tablets, Takradhara, and Abhyanga with Murivenna and Mahanarayana Taila. Following treatment, the patient showed marked relief from emotional stress and general weakness, along with improved glycemic control. The QOLID score increased from 65 to 83.46, indicating improvement in quality of life, and FBS reduced from 213 mg/dl to 136 mg/dl, while the insulin dosage was reduced from 30 U–30 U–15 U to 15 U–0–15 U. Although Prameha is considered a Yapya condition, the observed improvement suggests that Ayurvedic management may have a beneficial role in controlling stress-associated hyperglycemia and improving quality of life.