Alternative Medical Use for Banaba Leaf Extract
The use of banaba leaf extract in herbalism as a treatment for various human disorders such as diabetes is fairly popular. Many studies have shown some of the possible medical properties of banaba leaf, but its efficacy is still not scientifically proven. While the use of banaba leaf extract is still considered to be in the alternative medicine category, many people continue to believe in its healing properties.
Banaba leaf can be found worldwide, although it seems to the most popular in the Philippines. This plant has a higher level of corosolic acid, which is a natural form of plant insulin. It is this form of plant insulin that causes many people to use this herb as a form of diabetic treatment. Scientific studies on the effect of banaba leaf extract on the blood’s glucose levels and the cause of diabetes are still inconclusive. Some studies have reported positive effects in laboratory mice while others have reported no significant results. Based on the fact that the use of the banaba plant has yet to be 100% scientifically proven as a medicinal cure, it is listed as form of alternative medicine. While it may be a form of alternative medicine, many herbalists use banaba extract as treatments for various disorders. Usually this plant is formed into teas, supplements or juices so that it can be easily consumed.
Also sometimes referred to as the Crape Myrtle, the Banaba bush is often grown as an ornamental plant in gardens. Banaba plants can grow to be extremely tall and display white, red and purple flowers that resemble crepe paper, hence their other name. This plant can be grown in just about any temperate and low humidity climate and is also known for its shedding bark. It is the leaves that are of interest to herbalists, which can grow to be about 10 inches long. These leaves are what herbalists use to make teas, juices or supplements.
Added to the possible benefits of blood glucose control, many herbalists claim that the banaba leaf has other positive medical benefits to humans. The extract is becoming ever more popular as a form of weight loss supplement. It is said to have hunger suppressant features and controls sugar levels that may cause weight gain. Banaba leaf may also be a useful tool in treating and preventing kidney stones and gallbladder stones. It may aid in the treatment of urinary tract infections and hypoglycemia as well. Some evidence states that it also may help to control the body’s lipid levels inside of the liver and may possess a cholesterol lowering ability. Based on the fact that the banaba leaf is also rich in antioxidants, it is believed that is may have the ability to cleans toxins from the body and boost the immune system.
There may be side effects that can occur with the use of banaba leaf extract. Before deciding to add any form of alternative herbal treatments to attempt to cure any form of disorder, it is wise to consult with a physician. While an alternative holistic approach to treating disease may have many benefits, especially when used in conjunction with medical treatment, some herbs can have a direct and negative effect on certain medications. Never mix herbs and medications without consulting with a doctor. This is especially true for diabetics currently taking insulin. Patients who are dependent on insulin should never rely totally on herbal treatments unless approved by a doctor. Banaba leaf is generally considered to be a safe herb but because it has many effects of the glucose levels of the blood should not be taken before surgery.