Thebu: A Natural Way to Help Control Diabetes?
Thebu (Costus speciosus) is a popular herbal tea among Sri Lankans, especially for people with diabetes. It’s often called a “Natural Insulin Plant” because it contains compounds like diosgenin and flavonoids that help improve the body’s insulin function and promote glucose uptake into the cells. This is how Thebu helps the body manage blood sugar levels naturally.
🌿 How Does Thebu Help Control Blood Sugar?
Thebu plant has anti-hyperglycemic properties, which means it helps reduce high blood sugar levels. It works in several ways:
- It increases insulin production in the pancreas.
- It enhances insulin activity and sensitivity in the body.
- It improves glucose utilization inside the cells.
- It helps protect the pancreatic cells that produce insulin.
In simple terms, Thebu helps solve the issue of high blood sugar by promoting glucose absorption into the cells where it can be used for energy.
🔍 Identifying the Correct Medicinal Thebu Plant
If you are using Thebu, it’s important to identify the correct medicinal variety, Costus speciosus. Other related types are sometimes called wild or ornamental Thebu and differ in appearance.
Here are a few features to help distinguish the true medicinal Thebu:
- Stem Color: The medicinal Thebu stem is light green with a slight reddish tint, while the stem of ornamental Thebu is usually dark green.
- Flower Buds: The flower buds of medicinal Thebu are reddish, while wild Thebu’s buds are greenish.
- Growth Pattern: Medicinal Thebu tends to wilt slowly after flowering and regrows steadily. Wild Thebu often grows and spreads much faster.
⚠️ Is It Safe to Use Thebu Every Day?
As the saying goes, anything in excess can be harmful—and that applies to Thebu as well. It should be used in the correct amount and manner. If your blood sugar level becomes too low (hypoglycemia), that can also cause health problems. Thebu should be used carefully, especially by people who already have low blood sugar or are taking other diabetes medication.
To learn more valuable information about maintaining your health, stay with Naturista Prana sathkara articles.
