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Banaba Extract

Also known as: Lagerstroemia speciosa L., Banaba, Crepe Myrtle, Lagerstroemia speciosa

Overview

Banaba, scientifically known as *Lagerstroemia speciosa*, is a plant native to India, the Philippines, and Southeast Asia. Its leaves have been traditionally used for their anti-diabetic properties. The primary bioactive compounds include corosolic acid, ellagitannins, and other triterpene acids. Banaba is primarily used to manage diabetes, prediabetes, and other metabolic disorders. It is also recognized for its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antihyperlipidemic effects. Research on banaba is moderately developed, with several animal and small-scale human studies suggesting its benefits, although large-scale, long-term clinical trials are lacking. The available evidence supports its use in managing blood sugar levels and reducing inflammation.

Benefits

Banaba extracts, particularly corosolic acid, have demonstrated the ability to decrease blood sugar levels, with some studies showing reductions within 60 minutes of administration. A six-month study combining banaba with mulberry and Korean red ginseng showed a reduction in biomarkers of systemic low-grade inflammation in subjects with impaired glucose tolerance and type 2 diabetes. Secondary benefits include antihyperlipidemic, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antifungal, antiviral, and antineoplastic activities. Individuals with diabetes or prediabetes may benefit from banaba's ability to enhance cellular glucose uptake, impair sucrose and starch hydrolysis, and decrease gluconeogenesis. While the effect size on blood sugar levels is significant, specific effect sizes and confidence intervals are not consistently reported across studies.

How it works

Banaba's anti-diabetic effects are mediated through multiple mechanisms, including enhanced cellular uptake of glucose, impaired hydrolysis of sucrose and starches, decreased gluconeogenesis, and regulation of lipid metabolism. These effects are likely mediated by signal transduction factors such as PPAR, MAPK, and NF-κB. Banaba affects glucose and lipid metabolism, inflammation, and oxidative stress pathways. Corosolic acid and other triterpene acids target enzymes involved in glucose and lipid metabolism, such as α-amylase and α-glucosidase. The bioavailability of banaba extracts, particularly corosolic acid, is not extensively studied, but bioconversion by probiotics like *Lactobacillus plantarum* may enhance their bioactive properties.

Side effects

Banaba is considered possibly safe when used short-term (up to 2 weeks), but long-term safety data is lacking. Common side effects reported include dizziness, headache, and upset stomach. Drug interactions may occur with diabetes medications, antihypertensive drugs, and medications moved by organic anion-transporting polypeptide substrates, potentially leading to hypoglycemia or hypotension. Use should be avoided in pregnancy and breastfeeding due to insufficient safety data. It should also be discontinued at least 2 weeks before surgery to avoid complications in blood sugar control. Caution is advised in individuals with diabetes or those taking medications that lower blood sugar or blood pressure.

Dosage

There is no well-established minimum effective dose for banaba, and long-term safety data is lacking. A six-month study used 6 g/day of a mixture including banaba leaf water extract. Both water-soluble banaba leaf extracts and corosolic acid-standardized extracts have been used in studies. Due to the potential for interactions with blood sugar and blood pressure medications, it is crucial to consult with a healthcare provider before starting banaba supplementation. Bioconversion by probiotics may enhance the bioactive properties of banaba extracts. There are no specific cofactors identified as necessary for the efficacy of banaba extracts.

FAQs

Is banaba safe?

Banaba is considered safe for short-term use, but long-term safety data is lacking. Use with caution if pregnant, breastfeeding, or undergoing surgery. Consult a healthcare provider before use.

When should I take banaba?

There are no specific guidelines on the timing of administration. Monitor blood sugar and blood pressure closely, especially if taking other medications. Consult a healthcare provider for personalized advice.

What results can I expect from taking banaba?

Users may experience a reduction in blood sugar levels and potential improvements in glucose and lipid metabolism, as well as anti-inflammatory effects. Results can vary.

Can banaba replace my diabetes medication?

No, banaba is not a substitute for medical treatment of diabetes. It should be used under the guidance of a healthcare professional and in conjunction with prescribed treatments.

Research Sources

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22095937/ – This review summarizes various studies on banaba extracts, highlighting their ability to reduce blood sugar levels and exhibit antihyperlipidemic, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory effects. The review points out that these effects are mediated through multiple mechanisms in glucose and lipid metabolism, but notes the lack of large-scale, long-term clinical trials.
https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-1089/banaba – WebMD provides general information about Banaba, including its uses, potential side effects, and drug interactions. It emphasizes the importance of caution in certain populations, such as pregnant or breastfeeding women, and those undergoing surgery, due to limited safety data.
https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1155/2012/735191 – This randomized controlled trial investigated the effects of a six-month supplementation of banaba, mulberry, and Korean red ginseng on subjects with impaired glucose tolerance or mild type 2 diabetes. The study found that the supplementation reduced biomarkers of systemic low-grade inflammation, such as ICAM-1 and VCAM-1, but did not significantly improve glucose homeostasis control measures.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39338524/ – This experimental study explores the bioconversion of banaba leaf extract by *Lactobacillus plantarum* and its impact on glucose uptake, insulin secretion, and fat browning. The findings suggest that bioconversion may enhance the bioactive properties of banaba extracts, but further human clinical validation is required.
https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/A-Review-of-the-Efficacy-and-Safety-of-Banaba-L.)-Stohs-Miller/47cfbae6cfc22c939605431ecf1d6189d6b81437 – This review assesses the efficacy and safety of Banaba (*Lagerstroemia speciosa* L.). It compiles evidence from various studies, including animal models and human subjects, to evaluate the potential benefits and risks associated with Banaba consumption. The review highlights the need for more extensive and rigorous clinical trials to confirm the observed effects and ensure long-term safety.