Vol. 8, Issue - 2, Part A (2024)

Diabetes mellitus, a metabolic disorder characterized by elevated blood glucose levels, has been a significant health concern throughout human history. The understanding of this condition and its treatment has evolved over millennia, reflecting advancements in medical knowledge and cultural practices. The historical roots of diabetes can be traced back to ancient civilizations such as Egypt, India, and China, where descriptions of symptoms resembling diabetes were documented. Early medical texts, including the Ebers Papyrus and Sushruta Samhita, contained references to a condition characterized by excessive urination and sweet-tasting urine, indicative of what we now recognize as diabetes mellitus. In the Greco-Roman era, scholars like Hippocrates and Galen further contributed to the understanding of diabetes, proposing theories about its causes and potential treatments. However, it was not until the 19th and 20th centuries that significant strides were made in unraveling the pathophysiology of diabetes, leading to the discovery of insulin and advancements in modern medical management. Parallel to these developments in mainstream medicine, traditional systems like Unani medicine flourished in the Middle East, South Asia, and other regions. In Unani medicine, diabetes is understood as a disturbance in the balance of bodily humors. Treatment strategies focus on restoring this balance through dietary modifications, herbal remedies, physical therapies, and lifestyle interventions. Key medicinal plants and formulations such as bitter melon (Momordica charantia), fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum), and cinnamon (Cinnamomum verum) have been traditionally used to manage diabetes symptoms in Unani practice. While modern medicine has revolutionized the management of diabetes with insulin therapy, oral medications, and lifestyle interventions, traditional systems like Unani medicine continue to offer valuable insights and complementary approaches to holistic healthcare. Integrating the principles of Unani medicine with contemporary medical practices may provide a more comprehensive and personalized approach to managing diabetes and improving overall health outcomes.