Complementary and Alternative Medicinal Therapies for the Treatment of Diabetes

Abstract

Diabetes is a chronic illness and is among the nation's leading causes of mortality and morbidity. A severe chronic condition that develops whenever the organism is unable to use the insulin it produces appropriately. As an ancient illness, either for the treatment or prevention of illness, most people adopt complementary and alternative medicinal (CAM) approaches. The acceptance among general populace of such activities is in no way a testament to their protection as well as effectiveness. It is important that patients are questioned regarding CAM use during clinical assessment due to the risk of adverse associations with traditional medicines. In order to build a deeper understanding of evidence-based use of certain procedures, patient and physician-targeted educational campaigns on various elements of CAM use should be implemented. In particular, recommendations based on clinical research results must be in effect, and to guarantee their protection and efficacy, tighter controls need to be implemented on CAM activities.