Insulin Plant (Engl.)

Chamaecostus cuspidatus (Nees & Mart.) C.D.Specht & D.W.Stev.

Diabetes

perennial monocot, upright, spreading plant Height: 15-20 in Leaves: with spirally arranged leaves around the stem, like a spiral ladder, green, large, smooth, entire, parallel-veined, and have a sour taste (1) Flowers: Its yellow to orange flowers developed at the tips of the plant’s stems (1), apearing on cone-like heads. Fruits: Its green fruits or capsule is ellipsoid, 15 mm long, densely minutely puberulous, longitudinally loculicidally dehiscing from apex to base (2)

Medicinal Uses & Benefits

Diabetes. Preparation: Wash and clean the fresh leaves. Part used: Leaves | Diabetes. Preparation: Boil. Part used: Leaves | Wound. Preparation: Wash and clean the leaves. Part used: Leaves

Preparation

Wash and clean the fresh leaves | Boil | Wash and clean the leaves

Location & Habitat

REGION XIII (Caraga), AGUSAN DEL NORTE, CITY OF BUTUAN (Capital), Semi-shaded area, forest, cultivated

Research

Caraga State University: Documentation of Philippine Traditional Knowledge and Practices on Health and Development of Traditional Knowledge Digital Library on Health of Butuanon in Butuan City

Additional Images

Quick Info

Scientific Name: Chamaecostus cuspidatus (Nees & Mart.) C.D.Specht & D.W.Stev.
Local Name: Insulin Plant (Engl.)
Family: Costaceae
Category: Diabetes
Date Collected: Jun 28, 2026

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Medical Disclaimer: The information on this page is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before using any herbal remedy.