Insights from Ayurveda for Diabetes, Oral Health, and Their Interface

Abstract Diabetes-related metabolic disturbances have a negative impact on oral health as well. The reciprocal relationship between periodontal health and glycemic management has been already established. Both these pose important concerns to public health, and need to be addressed carefully. Ayurveda, the Indian Traditional Medicine System, has dealt in detail with the pathophysiology and management of prameha (diabetes) as well as various oral diseases including dantamoola vyadhi (periodontal diseases). Interestingly, the causative factors for dantamoola vyadhi are greatly similar to those of prameha. Ayurveda propounds formulations such as triphala, which are reported to possess antihyperglycemic activity as well as antimicrobial activity. Hence, such formulations can prove helpful in the management of both these diseases. Considering the global upsurge in research on traditional medicines worldwide, it is the need of the hour to consider the role of Ayurveda in the oral health issues of diabetic patients. The present review discusses the Ayurvedic concepts of diabetes and periodontal health along with their management.