A review on antidiabetic property of Costus Speciosus (Kemuka)

Abstract

Medicinal plants have great importance in primary health care needs mankind and around 80% of world population relies on traditional medicinal system. India rich in herbal resources and Kemuka (Costus speciosus) is one of the important medicinal plants used in treatment of different diseases along with diabetes. This erect, succulent, perennial herb is native to South East Asia, especially found in India, Srilanka, Indonesia and Malaysia. The plant is described as Pramehaghna in Ayurveda and traditionally used by local people in different parts of Assam, Darjeeling, and Kerala for the treatment of diabetes. Various experimental studies around the world have explained its antidiabetic properties.