Synonyms: 

Costus mexicanus Liebm.

Costus congestus Rowlee

Systematic Position

Kingdom:  Plantae

Phylum: Tracheophyta

Order: Zingiberales

Family: Costaceae

Native: Mexico

Common Names

English – Painted Spiral Ginger

Malayalam – ഇൻസുലിൻ ചെടി

Description:

Costus pictus, also known as insulin plant, is a tropical herbaceous plant native to Southeast Asia, characterized by spiral leaves and yellow-orange flowers, often cultivated for its medicinal properties.

Habitat: It thrives in warm, tropical climates and is often found in humid, shaded areas.

Distribution: Throughout the tropical zones of the world.

 Uses: Costus pictus, or insulin plant, is used traditionally for diabetes management and possesses potential antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, digestive, wound-healing, antimicrobial, and antipyretic properties.