How to Extract Banaba
Some scientists report banaba extract helps treat high blood sugar and diabetes when consumed. Adherents of the herbal remedy believe banaba treatments are safer and more effective than insulin. In a factory setting, scientists manipulate carbon dioxide levels to isolate corosolic acid from the banaba leaves. The extract is used to make banaba extract tablets. To extract the medicinal properties from the banaba leaf at home, use the leaves to make tea. Dehydrate the tea to turn the banaba into powdered form.
Instructions
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To make one cup of banaba tea for medicinal purposes, bring 1 1/2 cups water to a rolling boil. Reduce heat and put one tea bag in the kettle. Simmer for about 15 minutes. This method makes about one cup. Pour into a cup and drink as soon as it is cool enough.
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To make powdered banaba leaf, make strong tea. Pour the liquid into a shallow dish or pan. Let it dry out. Now you have your medicine in powder form. The powder can be used as-is. The advantages over the tea form are ease of storage, not having to make a new batch every day and some control of dosage.
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Store the powder at room temperature in a dry place away from direct sunlight. It has a shelf life of two years.
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Tips & Warnings
A few studies indicate the herbal remedy is useful for diabetics. However, the results were inconclusive. Banaba extract often is used a folk treatment for the condition in the Philippines.
As with all medications and herbal remedies, check with a doctor before starting a new treatment. Avoid using this treatment if you are pregnant or expect to become pregnant.
References
- Photo Credit Gunay Mutlu/Photodisc/Getty Images
