The Role of Alternative Medicine in Managing Type 2 Diabetes: A Comprehensive Review


Author: Billy McBenedict1, Andréa L Orfao2, Kang S Goh3, Ryan Chun C Yau3, Berley Alphonse1, Jonatha Machado Lima1, Hassan A Ahmed4, Gustavo P Ienaco1, Elaine Cristina de Souza5, Bruno Lima Pessôa4, Wilhelmina N Hauwanga6, Gabriella Valentim2, Magda de Souza Chagas7, Ana Abrahão2

Affiliation: <sup>1</sup> Neurosurgery, Federal Fluminense University, Niterói, BRA.

<sup>2</sup> Public Health, Federal Fluminense University, Niterói, BRA.

<sup>3</sup> Internal Medicine, Monash University Malaysia, Johor Bahru, MYS.

<sup>4</sup> Neurosurgery, Fluminense Federal University, Niterói, BRA.

<sup>5</sup> Palliative Care, Brazilian National Cancer Institute, Rio de Janeiro, BRA.

<sup>6</sup> Family Medicine, Federal University of the State of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, BRA.

<sup>7</sup> Public Health, Fluminense Federal University, Niterói, BRA.
Conference/Journal: Cureus
Date published: 2024 Jun 8
Other:
 Volume ID: 16   ,  Issue ID: 6   ,  Pages: e61965   ,  Special Notes: doi: 10.7759/cureus.61965.   ,  Word Count: 249  
    Diabetes, a chronic metabolic disorder marked by elevated blood glucose levels, is increasingly prevalent globally, significantly impacting health-related quality of life. Type 2 diabetes (T2DM), characterized by insulin resistance and inadequate insulin production, presents a substantial public health challenge, necessitating comprehensive management strategies. Conventional treatments, including lifestyle modifications and pharmacotherapy, are essential for glycemic control and preventing complications. However, adherence to these treatments is often limited, highlighting the need for alternative strategies. Complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) offers potential cost-effective and accessible approaches for managing T2DM. Key herbal remedies like cinnamon, fenugreek, and bitter melon, along with dietary supplements like chromium, magnesium, and vanadium, have shown promise in glycemic control. Mind-body therapies, including yoga, tai chi, and meditation, contribute to improved hemoglobin A1c and fasting blood glucose levels. Research supports the integration of CAM with conventional therapies, demonstrating enhanced clinical efficacy and reduced economic burden. However, challenges such as standardization, quality control, and potential risks of herbal medicines need careful consideration. Regulatory frameworks and ethical considerations are essential to ensure patient safety and informed decision-making. Patient education and effective communication between healthcare providers and patients are crucial for integrating CAM into diabetes management. Empowerment-based interventions and collaborative approaches can enhance self-management skills and clinical outcomes. Overall, integrating CAM with conventional treatments offers a holistic approach to managing T2DM, potentially improving patient outcomes and reducing healthcare costs.



Keywords: alternative medicine; complementary medicine; glycemic control; herbal remedies; mind-body therapies; patient education; type 2 diabetes.



PMID: 38978922 PMCID: PMC11229830 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.61965