Here are several medicinal plants with anti-diabetic properties, many of which are commonly found or cultivated in the Philippines. These plants have traditionally been used to help regulate blood sugar levels and support metabolic health:
| Common Name | Scientific Name | Active Compounds | Anti-Diabetic Actions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Banaba | Lagerstroemia speciosa | Corosolic acid, ellagitannins | Insulin-like action, enhances glucose uptake |
| Mulberry (Leaves) | Morus alba | DNJ (1-Deoxynojirimycin) | Inhibits carb digestion, reduces postprandial sugar |
| Cinnamon | Cinnamomum spp. | Cinnamaldehyde, MHCP | Improves insulin sensitivity, lowers glucose |
| Ampalaya (Bitter Melon) | Momordica charantia | Charantin, polypeptide-p | Stimulates insulin secretion, lowers blood sugar |
| Insulin Plant | Costus igneus | Corosolic acid, flavonoids | Promotes insulin production, lowers glucose |
| Guava Leaf | Psidium guajava | Quercetin, flavonoids | Regulates blood sugar and lipids |
| Turmeric | Curcuma longa | Curcumin | Anti-inflammatory, improves insulin resistance |
| Ginger | Zingiber officinale | Gingerol, shogaol | Enhances insulin action, antioxidant effect |
| Blue Ternate | Clitoria ternatea | Anthocyanins, flavonoids | Antioxidant, may protect β-cells |
| Bignay | Antidesma bunius | Polyphenols, anthocyanins | Reduces blood glucose and oxidative stress |
| Saluyot (Jute) | Corchorus olitorius | Mucilage, polyphenols | Delays glucose absorption, anti-inflammatory |
| Moringa (Malunggay) | Moringa oleifera | Isothiocyanates, quercetin | Lowers sugar, improves lipid profile |
| Aratiles (Jamaican Cherry) | Muntingia calabura | Flavonoids, quercetin, gallic acid | Lowers blood glucose, antioxidant, protects pancreas |
Typical Use Forms
- Teas / Decoctions (Banabá, Ampalaya, Guava leaves)
- Capsules or Tablets (Standardized extracts)
- Fresh Juice / Salad (Ampalaya, Guava)
- Powdered or Dried Leaves (for tea blends or supplement mixtures)
Safety Tips
- These herbs may potentiate the effects of prescription antidiabetic medications.
- Monitor blood glucose levels to avoid hypoglycemia.
- Consult with a healthcare provider or licensed herbalist for safe combinations and dosing.