Chamaecostus cuspidatus

These days what is commonly known in India as the Insulin Plant, is a species native to eastern Brazil. Its contemporary name comes from its anti-diabetic qualities.

For a food to be accepted into our diet its medicinal benefits alone are not enough, it should also be palatable. The insulin plant leaves are delicious; slightly sour with a wonderful crunch and a texturous bite,they are perfect in salads, food truty is medicine!

Aside from being cultivated for its medicinal use, in Ayurvedic preparations as well as in Siddha medicine, the Insulin Plant, also known as ‘Fiery Costus’ due to the appearance of its flower, is cultivated as an ornamental. And it truly is a beautiful plant. When it blooms, it puts forth beautiful orange flowers which appear to be made of crepe paper.

Even the flower petals are edible, and are quite sweet and nutritious. Just imagine – flowers which beautifully decorate a garden, and then garnish a salad! It can even be used in chutneys.

The insulin plant grows fairly fast, and is propagated easily by using stem cuttings. It can even do well in partial shade. This makes it highly encouraging to include in one’s garden and perfect to start experimenting with in one’s cooking. Such simple acts as using an insulin plant could potentially influence wellbeing on a larger collective level.