Hormonal/Weight

Banaba

Leaf extract containing corosolic acid that may help regulate blood glucose and modestly support weight management in adults with insulin resistance.

Banaba

Banaba

45
score
C
evidence
Caution
risk
Quick Take

Worth considering if you have prediabetes or insulin resistance; glucose-lowering evidence is modest and not definitive.

Banaba is a tropical tree native to Southeast Asia. Its leaves contain corosolic acid and ellagitannins and have been used traditionally for blood sugar control. Modern studies suggest they can increase cellular glucose uptake and improve insulin sensitivity. Clinical trials show modest reductions in fasting glucose and HbA1c, with some evidence for lowering post-meal glucose and body weight. It is most likely to help adults with prediabetes, insulin resistance, or elevated postprandial glucose.

Proven Benefits

01
Lowers fasting glucose
02
Lowers postprandial glucose
03
May lower HbA1c
04
May reduce body weight

Protocol

Amount
150-300 mg
Frequency
Once daily
When
With meals, especially carbohydrate-containing meals, to blunt postprandial glucose spikes.

Onset Time

2-4 weeks for glucose effects; 8-12 weeks for weight changes

Who Should Consider

Adults with prediabetes or insulin resistance
People with elevated fasting glucose
People with elevated post-meal glucose
Overweight adults with metabolic syndrome

How It Works

Corosolic acid and related tannins appear to stimulate GLUT4 translocation and AMPK signaling, helping muscle and fat cells take up glucose more efficiently. They may also inhibit intestinal alpha-glucosidase, slowing carbohydrate breakdown and absorption.

Updated Invalid Date