Philippine Herbal Medicine Logo

Banaba

Home
10 DOH Herbs
Akapulko
Ampalaya
Banaba
Bawang-Garlic
Bayabas -Guava
Ginger - Luya
Gumamela
Lagundi
Oregano
Pansit-Pansitan
Sabila - Aloe Vera
Sambong
Silymarin
Tsaang Gubat
Virgin Coconut Oil
Yerba Buena
Key to Healing
Plants Fruits Trees

 

  Herbal Medicine: Banaba (Lagerstroemia speciosa)

 

Banaba has been used in Filipino folkloric herbal medicine for the treatment of diabetes for centuries. It is now gaining popularity and getting recognition as a herbal medicine not only in the Philippines but worldwide. Banaba is also known as Queen's Flower, Crepe Myrtle and the Pride of India. In India, Banaba has also been used to cure diabetes in Ayurvedic medicine for a long time.

Recent studies and laboratory test showed that it's active ingredient, corosolic acid is a potent compound that has insulin like effect to lower glucose in the body and is effective in treating diabetes. Initial findings also shows that Banaba extract may delay and reduce the absorption of carbohydrates in the body and promote weight loss.

Aside from the medicinal value of Banaba, as a herbal medicine, it is also good for the health. Banaba contains high concentrations of dietary fiber and minerals such as zinc and magnesium. The leaves can be boiled and taken daily as tea.

There have been no findings of any negative side effects when taking Banaba extract orally. However, caution is advised against taking Banaba with any diabetic drug or any other drug. Always consult with a qualified physician or a medical practitioner before taking any medication or any herbal medicine.

 

Benefits & Treatment of Banaba:

 

• Diabetes

• Fights obesity

• Helps regulate blood pressure

• Good for the kidneys

• Aids the digestive system

• Helps ease urination

 

 

Preparation & Use

 

Note: Fresh leaves, dried leaves, flowers, ripe fruit, root and bark of Banaba can all be used.

• Wash the leaves in running water (if fresh). Cut into smaller pieces if desired.

• Boil Banaba (one cup Banaba to cup of water) for 30 minutes. Drink like tea.

 

 

Philippine Herbal Medicine Home Page

10 DOH Herbs | Akapulko | Ampalaya | Atis Fruit | Banaba | Bayabas | Bawang-Garlic | Ginger-Luya | Gumamela | Lagundi | Oregano | Pansit-pansitan | Sabila | Sambong | Tsaang Gubat | Virgin Coconut Oil | Yerba Buena | Key to Nutritional Healing

Last update 01/03/08 © 2005-2008 Philippine Herbal Medicine