Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a chronic metabolic disorder characterized by elevated blood glucose levels due to insulin resistance and progressive impairment of insulin secretion. Long-term uncontrolled diabetes can lead to cardiovascular disease, kidney damage, neuropathy and retinopathy. Alongside conventional treatment, Ayurveda offers several herbal formulations that have been traditionally used to support glucose metabolism. One such formulation is Nishamalaki, a combination of Nisha (Curcuma longa, turmeric) and Amalaki (Emblica officinalis, Indian gooseberry).1
In Ayurveda, Nishamalaki is traditionally used for Prameha, a group of disorders associated with abnormal urinary patterns and metabolic disturbances. Its potential benefits are being investigated through experimental and clinical research, particularly in relation to glycaemic control, insulin sensitivity and oxidative stress. However, it should be considered a complementary approach rather than a substitute for established diabetes treatment.
Botanical profile and active constituents
Nishamalaki combines two medicinal plants:
- Nisha (Curcuma longa): Commonly known as turmeric, it contains curcuminoids, including curcumin, which have been investigated for antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects
- Amalaki (Emblica officinalis): Also known as Indian gooseberry or amla, it contains polyphenols, including gallic acid and ellagic acid, which are studied for their antioxidant and metabolic effects
These constituents may influence glucose metabolism, oxidative stress and insulin signalling. However, the effects of a formulation depend on its composition, preparation and standardization.
Potential mechanisms of action
Improvement in insulin sensitivity:
Insulin resistance is a major contributor to T2DM. Nishamalaki extracts improve insulin sensitivity and reduce elevated blood glucose and insulin levels.2
Regulation of glucose metabolism:
Curcuminoids and amalaki polyphenols have been investigated for their effects on pathways involved in glucose uptake and insulin signalling. Potential mechanisms include modulation of the PI3K–AKT pathway and glucose transporter activity. The clinical relevance of these mechanisms for Nishamalaki remains uncertain.
Antioxidant activity:
Oxidative stress contributes to cellular dysfunction and diabetic complications. The antioxidant constituents of turmeric and amalaki may help reduce oxidative stress markers, although it remains unclear whether these effects translate into fewer long-term complications.
Conclusion
Nishamalaki, a traditional Ayurvedic combination of turmeric and amalaki, has potential metabolic benefits through possible effects on insulin sensitivity, glucose regulation and oxidative stress. Preliminary human evidence in prediabetes and experimental findings in diabetic animals support further investigation. However, robust evidence for its effectiveness in established type 2 diabetes remains insufficient. Its role should be considered complementary and investigational, alongside appropriate medical care, dietary management and physical activity.3
Reference:
- Murudkar PH, Tambe MS, Chandrasekar SB, Boddeda B, Pawar AT. Common Ayurvedic, Chinese traditional and Unani antidiabetic formulations- a review. Front Pharmacol. 2022;13:991083. Published 2022 Oct 12. doi:10.3389/fphar.2022.991083 https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9597356/
- Panda V, Deshmukh A, Singh S, Shah T, Hingorani L. An Ayurvedic formulation of Emblica officinalis and Curcuma longa alleviates insulin resistance in diabetic rats: Involvement of curcuminoids and polyphenolics. J Ayurveda Integr Med. 2021;12(3):506-513. doi:10.1016/j.jaim.2021.05.005 https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8377191/
- Munshi R, Karande-Patil S, Kumbhar D, Deshmukh A, Hingorani L. A randomized, controlled, comparative, proof-of-concept study to evaluate the efficacy and safety of Nisha-Amalaki capsules in prediabetic patients for preventing progression to diabetes. J Ayurveda Integr Med. 2023;14(6):100806. doi:10.1016/j.jaim.2023.100806 https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10587713