Role of Cephalandra indica Q in the management of Diabetes Mellitus as an add-on medicine along with conventional antidiabetics

Abstract

Objective : To ascertain the role of Cephalandra indica Q, in the management of patients suffering from Diabetes mellitus (type I or type II) continuing on anti-diabetic treatment for maintenance of blood sugar levels and to identify its reliable indications. Material and Methods : An open, prospective, observational study was carried out during the period July 1992 - March 2000; 96 patients with post-prandial blood sugar level more than 160 mg/dL even after taking anti-diabetic medicine were enrolled for the study. All the patients were administered with Ceplalandra indica Q in the dosage, one drop per kilogram of their body weight. The dose was divided in three parts, mixed with one ounce of water and was given three times a day, until disappearance of all signs and symptoms along with control of Blood sugar level. Fasting and post-prandial blood and urine sugar levels were measured on every follow-up visit of the patient. Other required investigations were also conducted. All the patients were advised to take low calorie and high fibre diet, do regular physical exercise and to avoid physical and mental stress. Results : Out of 96 patients registered, 88 patients were followed up. Mean FBS level of patients before treatment was 138.90 ± 24.388 (range 83 to 216 mg/dL) where as mean FBS after treatment was 115.86 ± 26.363 (range 64 to 202 mg/dL). Mean PPBS level before treatment was 265.08 ± 44.675 (range 178 to 386 mg/dL) where as mean PPBS after treatment was 204.75 ± 39.968 (range 116 to 341 mg/dL). Dosage of allopathic medicines was reduced in maximum number of patients but, it was completely withdrawn in 17 patients. There was improvement in signs and symptoms, along with decrease in recurrence: no recurrence in 9 patients, recurrence with less intensity in 55. The indications for Cephalandra also verified. Conclusion : This study shows some positive role of Cephalandra indica Q in maintaining blood sugar level. Future controlled studies with Cephalandra indica alone vis-à-vis other conventional anti-diabetic medicines, by doing the required laboratory tests, are suggested to explore more about the hypoglycemic effect of Cephalandra indica.