Costus igneus vs Mahua

Side-by-side comparison of medicinal herbs

Herb

Costus igneus

Metabolic

Madhuca longifolia

Metabolic

Costus igneus

❌ Not recommended in pregnancy

❌ Not recommended while nursing

Mahua

❌ Not recommended in pregnancy

❌ Not recommended while nursing

Description

Widely grown medicinal plant in South and Southeast Asia for diabetes management.

An Indian forest tree sacred to tribal communities, whose flowers are eaten and fermented, and bark used medicinally.

Active Compounds

insulin-like compounds, corosolic acid, flavonoids, quercetin, kaempferol

Saponins, Quercetin, Myricetin, Beta-carotene

Traditional Uses

diabetes, blood sugar regulation, skin conditions

Diabetes, Bronchitis, Skin conditions, Tonsillitis

Modern Uses

antidiabetic, insulin sensitizing, anti-inflammatory

Anti-diabetic, Antimicrobial, Anti-inflammatory, Wound healing

Adult Dosage

1-2 leaves chewed daily or 3-5g powder

5-10g dried flowers or 2-4g bark as decoction

Contraindications

hypoglycemia medications, pregnancy

Pregnancy, Diabetes medications

Side Effects

hypoglycemia, GI upset

GI upset, Intoxication (fermented)

Drug Interactions

0 known interactions

Reviewed by: HerbAlly Editorial Team, Medical herbalists and healthcare professionals

Sources: WHO Monographs · NCCIH · PubMed · Commission E