Banaba leaf, from the banaba shrub, contains corosolic acid which can improve blood sugar control in type II diabetics. It can also lower blood cholesterol levels, relieve urinary tract infections, aid weight loss, and have practical applications in the treatment of bacterial infections, upset stomachs, and coughs. Banaba leaf extract is commonly ingested in the form of tea, juice, or dietary supplements. Medical supervision is important for people receiving treatment for diabetes.
The banaba leaf comes from the banaba shrub, or Lagerstroemia speciosa, an ornamental plant native to Australia, Southeast Asia, and India. It is also found in other warm climates throughout the world, including temperate regions of the United States, where it is commonly known as crepe myrtle. In addition to its use as an ornamental shrub, the banaba shrub has long been prized for its medicinal properties. Banaba leaf extract contains high levels of a plant insulin known as corosolic acid. Studies have shown that the corosolic acid naturally present in banaba leaf can improve blood sugar control in type II diabetics.
Banaba has been used for years in the Philippines and other parts of Asia as a method of controlling blood sugar. It can stimulate glucose transport into cells, resulting in lower blood sugar levels. Other natural herbs that can help lower blood sugar include lipoic acid, fenugreek, chromium, and cinnamon. Homeopathic remedies for high blood sugar sometimes use a combination of these herbs and nutrients for maximum effect.
Some users have reported a decrease in blood cholesterol levels when using banaba leaf. It has also been used to relieve urinary tract infections, and may aid weight loss when used as an appetite suppressant to control food cravings. In animal studies, weight loss occurred with ingestion of banaba leaf extract without the reduction in calories.
Additional studies have indicated that the corosolic acid present in banaba leaf may have practical applications in the treatment of bacterial infections, upset stomachs, and coughs. Elevated blood lipid levels and elevated levels of fatty acid compounds in the blood may also decrease with its use. Additionally, evidence has shown that regular use of banaba leaf tea can relieve discomfort associated with kidney stones and help prevent gallbladder stones.
Banaba leaf extract is commonly ingested in the form of tea, juice, or dietary supplements. Some of the only known side effects of banaba leaf are fatigue, dizziness, and headache associated with hypoglycemia, commonly known as low blood sugar. There may also be interactions with other medications and herbal remedies. It is always a good idea to consult a doctor before starting a regimen that includes this or any other homeopathic remedy. Medical supervision while using this supplement is particularly important for people receiving treatment for diabetes because it may aggravate the effects of common diabetes medications such as insulin, phenformin, chlorpropamide, and glyburide.
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