What is the insulin plant?
The insulin plant (scientific name: Costus igneus) has gained popularity in recent years for its potential blood sugar-lowering properties. Some preliminary studies, including the 2024 International Journal Of Pharmaceutical Sciences And Research, and other anecdotal evidence suggest that chewing its leaves may have a mild glucose-lowering effect, likely due to compounds that improve insulin sensitivity. However, experts emphasise that it is “often falsely promoted as a natural cure for diabetes”.
Dr Hiran S. Reddy, consultant physician, diabetolog and critical care special, Gleneagles Hospital, Lakdi Ka Pul, Hyderabad, said that the “insulin plant has gained popularity in alternative medicine circles for its potential to help regulate blood sugar levels”. “From a medical standpoint, while some early studies and anecdotal evidence suggest that regular consumption of the leaves may aid in glycaemic control, the clinical evidence remains limited and inconclusive,” said Dr Reddy.
Notably, diabetes is a complex metabolic condition that requires a holic approach, including medication, lifestyle changes, and regular monitoring. “There is no scientific evidence that the plant can reduce or replace the need for insulin in people with diabetes,” added Dr Rajiv Kovil, head of diabetology, Zandra Healthcare and Co-founder of Rang De Neela Initiative.
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Believing otherwise is dangerous and can lead to poor blood sugar control, serious complications, and even life-threatening consequences, cautioned Dr Kovil.
Is the insulin plant effective? Experts disagree (Photo: Wikimedia Commons)
While admitting that preliminary research indicates that the plant may possess insulin-mimetic and glucose-lowering properties, Dr Reddy continued, “The bioactive compounds in its leaves could help enhance insulin sensitivity and promote glucose uptake cells. Some small-scale studies have reported modest improvements in fasting and postprandial blood glucose levels when taken consently over 8 to 12 weeks. However, it is important to note that large-scale, peer-reviewed clinical trials do not yet support these findings.”
“Diabetes management must be based on proven medical therapies, not myths or herbal hype,” said Dr Kovil. ‘
Dr Pranav Ghody, consultant endocrinolog and diabetolog, Wockhardt Hospitals, Mumbai Central, concurred and asserted that it is “not a substitute for standard diabetes treatment”.Story continues below this ad
According to Dr Ghody, no robust clinical evidence currently proves that chewing insulin leaves alone can reverse diabetes or normalise sugar levels in 12 weeks. “Using herbal remedies like the insulin plant may be considered a supportive therapy only after consulting a qualified doctor,” said Dr Ghody.
Experts urge that the insulin plant should not be considered a standalone treatment for diabetes. Dr Reddy said that while it may be used as a complementary therapy, only under medical supervision, especially for individuals with type 2 diabetes or prediabetes, patients must continue with prescribed medications, regular monitoring, and lifestyle measures such as diet and exercise. “Using herbal remedies without guidance can risk interactions or delay effective treatment. Always consult your physician before incorporating such plants into your routine,” said Dr Reddy.
DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.
