Diabetes is rampant in America because of our love affair with sugar. Even children are now succumbing to Type II diabetes which is directly related to diet. In type II diabetes, the pancreas continues to produce insulin, sometimes even at higher-than-normal levels. However, the body develops resistance to the effects of insulin so there is not enough insulin to meet the body’s needs. Obesity is the chief risk factor for developing type II diabetes and 80-90% of people with this disorder are overweight or obese. Because obesity causes insulin resistance, obese people need very large amounts of insulin to maintain normal blood sugar levels.

Western medicine treats diabetes with diet, exercise, education and for most people, drugs. If people with diabetes strictly control their blood sugar levels, complications are less likely to develop. The goal of diabetes treatment is to keep blood sugar levels within the normal range as much as possible. People with diabetes benefit greatly from learning about their disorder, understanding how diet and exercise affect their blood sugar levels, and knowing how to avoid complications.

What Can Aromatherapists Offer Type II Diabetics?

Essential oils are most effective with infections and least effect with metabolic disorders. Diabetes is one of those metabolic disorders. However some individuals get off their diabetic medications and even insulin with great vigilance, diet and exercise. Just as they have learned to test their blood sugars, daily, they will need to continue daily testing when on a regime of essential oils.

Coriander (Coriandrum sativum) is a strongly aromatic annual herb traditionally used in the form of an infusion for children’s diarrhea, digestive upsets, griping pains anorexia and gas. It was studied in Egupt for its effects in lowering glucose and insulin levels and supporting pancreatic function. This oil can promote digestion and also has produces a mild feeling of euphoria.Many us it in conjunction with dill oil to promote pancreatic health and to aid in the control of diabetes. It is generally non-toxic, non-irritating and non-sensitizing.

Dill (Anethum graveolens) is traditionally used in the East and West as a digestive aid for indigestion, wind, colic, especially in children. Research has shown dill has anti-diabetic, antispasmodic, antibacterial and expectorant properties. It is a pancreatic stimulant and an insulin-blood sugar regulator. It has many similar properties to fennel making it good for digestive problems.

These are the two primary oils; other oils that have shown some ability to help include fennel, geranium, cinnamon, and pine.