2026 Conference | Reclaiming Metabolic Health: Ancient wisdom meets modern science | Virender Sodhi, MD

Abstract: This session explores the role of healthy blood sugar-balancing herbs and supportive concepts towards metabolic health, with a focus on Ayurvedic and Naturopathic clinical applications. As interest grows in natural alternatives to pharmaceutical GLP-1 therapies, naturopathic physicians are uniquely positioned to integrate evidence-informed botanical strategies into patient care. Participants will review the physiology of GLP-1 and then examine key herbs, evaluating their mechanisms of action, safety profiles, and clinical efficacy. We will particularly look into the mechanism of how our bodies can produce our own GLP-1 and how it can have neurological and cardioprotective properties. Lifestyle-based treatments will be included in the discussion. Case studies and herb-drug interaction considerations will support clinical decision-making and enhance therapeutic outcomes.

Presenter Bio: Dr. Virender Sodhi graduated as an Ayurvedic physician from Dayanand Ayurvedic Medical College in Jalandar, India, in 1980. He came to the United States to share Ayurveda as part of a cultural exchange program and ended up pursuing his naturopathic medical degree from Bastyr University, completing that program in 1988. He went on to become one of the first pioneers to integrate the medical sciences of Ayurveda and naturopathic medicine and was the first Doctor of Ayurveda and Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine in the United States. Dr. Sodhi has continued to integrate the best of both sciences in his practice for over 36 years. Having completed a fellowship in integrative oncology in 2012, oncology has become an important part of his primary-care practice. Additionally, Dr. Sodhi is the CEO of Ayush Herbs, Inc., and serves as Medical Director of the Ayurvedic Naturopathic Medical Clinic in Bellevue, Washington.