Banaba (Lagerstroemia speciosa L)

Lagerstroemia speciosa

Common names: Queen’s Crape Myrtle, Elephant’s Creeper, Pride of India

Also known as Queen’s Crape Myrtle, this tropical flowery tree should not be confused with banana. Other than its quite resemblance in spelling, the two plants are entirely different species. If banana is known for its high potassium value, various studies showed that Banaba is rich in corosilic acid. This compound is proven to be effective in management of patient with diabetes mellitus, particularly the type II DM. Corosolic acid is a plant-based triterpenoid compound with insulin-like properties. It follows the action of insulin (which is normally produce by our body, but is not/ or in limited supply in patient with diabetes) by transporting glucose inside the cell. It can also enhance the effect of weak insulin in patient with no problem in insulin supply rather with trouble in their insulin effectiveness in opening cell for glucose uptake.

The use of this herb can be traced up to its folkloric origin. It is traditionally used in the Philippines for diabetes and in cleansing liver. Surprisingly, this Southeast Asian tree is also included in the Ayurvedic medicine for a long time and is included in Indian Noni Research Foundation (INRF) list of highly studied herbs with proven medicinal properties. It is used to lower low density lipoprotein (LDL), cholesterol and triglycerides, neutralizes the oxidative effects of high glucose levels, improves glucose tolerance, balance blood sugar, controls appetite and food craving thus gaining recognition as a potent weight loss herbal supplement.

Aside form its diabetic management and anti-obesity properties, banaba can also help in regulating blood pressure. Its mild diuretic property can help ease urination and is good for the kidney. The herb has high mineral content, most notably are the zinc and magnesium.