Description
Thebu — thebu kola — is one of Sri Lanka’s most treasured home-garden medicines. Known across the island as the “insulin plant”, Costus speciosus (Kemuka in Sanskrit) has been used for generations in Sri Lankan and Ayurvedic traditional medicine, above all as a natural ally for blood sugar.
In this tradition the leaf is taken to help the body maintain healthy blood sugar and to support metabolic wellness, and is also valued for digestion, gastritis, cholesterol and liver health. In Sri Lankan homes it is most familiar as thebu kola sambola — the leaves eaten fresh with grated coconut, onion and lime — and brewed as a simple daily infusion.
Thebu grows readily in shady corners of gardens across Sri Lanka’s low country. Our leaf is hand-picked and gently dried to preserve its character, bringing an everyday island remedy into a clean, convenient tea cut.
How to Use
As a herbal tea: Steep 1 teaspoon (about 2g) in freshly boiled water for 8–10 minutes, then strain. Traditionally taken on an empty stomach in the morning.
Fresh, the island way: Where fresh leaves are available, thebu is eaten as a sambola with grated coconut, onion and lime.
Blend it: Pairs with lemongrass for a brighter cup.
Good to know Thebu is traditionally taken in moderation. If you take medication for diabetes, use it only under your doctor’s guidance, as it may lower blood sugar. Not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding without medical advice.
Health Benefits
Healthy blood sugar: Sri Lanka’s celebrated “insulin plant” — traditionally taken to help maintain healthy blood sugar and support insulin function. If you are on diabetes medication, consult your doctor before regular use.
Metabolic & cholesterol support: Traditionally valued to support metabolic wellness and healthy cholesterol.
Digestive comfort: Traditionally taken to ease gastritis and support digestion.
Liver support: Long used in traditional practice as a liver tonic.
Antioxidant: A natural source of antioxidant compounds, including diosgenin.
Sources: Representative research: Devi & Urooj and others, antidiabetic activity of Costus speciosus (diosgenin, eremanthin, corosolic acid).
Sourcing
Thebu grows in shady corners of home gardens across Sri Lanka’s low country. Our leaf is hand-picked and gently dried. Much of this produce is naturally free of chemical inputs but not yet connected to organic networks; supporting these growers is part of our ongoing Regenerative Agriculture pilot.
