Insulin Plant (Costus Igneus Nak or Costus Picus) - It is originated from Central and South America and become endemic in India where it got the name " Insulin Plant". Other names being given to this plant are Step Ladder and Spiral Flag.
The stem is smooth, hard and reddish in color. It reaches up to 3-5 feet high or more. The dark to almost yellow green colors of the leaves are wide, pointed, brittle and sour. The size of the spiral leaves is almost 4-8 inches long. The outside part of the yellow flower is cone-liked and soft. At the middle is an orange ruffled petals with yellow streaks.
Insulin Plant is a traditional medicine in India. In some studies, the leaves which contain corosolic acid, natural compound in plants that can regulate blood sugar thereby curing diabetes.
Why is insulin important to one's body? It is a hormone needed to make way for the glucose to enter the cells through bloodstream and builds energy. It is fatal if the cells do not build up insulin anymore. Therefore, insulin can save life. Those affected by these are the diabetic individuals preferably those under Type 1 diabetes.
This plant becomes so popular because of the testimonies, write-ups, interviews and videos giving information about the importance of this medicinal plant.
Yes, it was so expensive when first arrived in the Philippines and people never mind the price as long as they have purchased one. I am diabetic so I was one of those who joined the "Insulin Plant Rush". I take care of my plant but never tried to get a leaf and chew it. I was still uncertain of the medicinal value of this plant. From those friends who already tried to use this plant as an alternative suggested that I should take two leaves in the morning and two leaves in the evening to be chewed properly to get the juice or sap or If I like tea, eight leaves for one liter of water is needed and boil it for ten minutes. Drink twice a day too. Although there were so many testimonies already, I was not convinced and still worry about the effects.
During the first month of COVID pandemic, I ran out of my medicine and it was so difficult to find means to get out. There was mixed emotions and fear was the most dominant. I remembered this plant so for the mean time, I relied on it. Five days after, my medicines are on hand already. I stopped taking my alternative medicine but I have a feeling that this plant can be of great help to those who who have this disease Anyway, I'm grateful that I have this plant. Next time that I'll see my doctor, I'll ask and consult him about this conventional plant. Asking for advice from the medical expert will make me feel relax and comfortable.
As one of those having this disease, I try my best to manage it by following pieces of my doctor's advice like:
- Have enough sleep and exercise
- Avoid food that are salty, fatty, high in sugar and carbohydrates
- be conscious about weight
- Take more fibrous food
- Exercise daily like brisk walking
- Prolong sitting and standing should be avoided
- Eat vegetables and fruits but little amount if sweet.
- Drink more water
- Avoid stress and vices.
Truly, this disease can be fatal because it damages almost all parts of the body. (If one of the system fails to function the other system will be affected - Law of interrelated ideas). Controlling sugar levels can prevent major complications. This is applicable not only for the diabetic people but for everyone.
For now, I keep on reading articles about this plant and watching videos too. Some health experts say that this is a "promising plant". Further research and studies are needed to see the good effects and if it's really safe on humans. Hopefully, there will be positive results.Diabetes is not only a dangerous disease but the medications are quite expensive. If this Insulin Plant will be approved by the experts, I should say it will be the cheapest way in curing this worldwide health problem and can help many suffering from this disease.
Thank you for reading my post and I appreciate your comments
