Costus is a genus of spiral gingers
Costus is a genus of spiral gingers growing typically in tropical regions.
Many species of Costus can be found in Singapore. Costus speciosus, C. spicatus, C. barbatus, C. paradisica and C. igneus to name a few. They have many common names varying from region to region.
(In India the species Costus speciosus or crepe ginger is called as Ketaki in Hindi and Kemukha in Sanskrit) Costus igneus now renamed Chamaecostus cuspidatus is known as the Insulin Plant for its remarkable anti-diabetic properties.
A perennial shrub with brilliant red coloured flowers cultivated in gardens as ornamental plant and also found growing in fallow lands.
It is primarily used by Ayurveda in the treatment of disturbances in lipid metabolism like obesity, hyperlipidaemia. It is also considered useful in the management of diabetes and is often referred to as the insulin plant.
The leaf of the plant helps in producing insulin. They control the blood sugar levels of our body. The leaves of Insulin Plant contain corosolic acid which helps to generate insulin thereby treating diabetes.
A powder of dried leaves consumed on daily basis can help in the treatment of type2 diabetes.
It is believed to cause contraction in the uterine muscles. Therefore, has also been used to correct irregular menstruation and during parturition.
Reference
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