Kowakka for treatment of diabetes

By Sirangika Lokukaravita   

A team of researchers in Ruhunu University has discovered a herbal drug with the Kowakka plant. 

Head of the Research Team Professor Anoja Attanayake of the Medical Faculty told the media that they had been carrying out research on chemical compounds in the Kowakka plant (Coccinia Grandis) over a long period, to invent the drug that could be used in the treatment of blood sugar. 

 
She said the research project costing Rs.4.7 million was funded by the National Institute of Science. Professor Attanayake said they manufactured a capsule, using the chemical compounds of the Kowakka plant to reduce blood sugar levels.   

A member of the team Professor Thilak Weeraratne said the drug was successfully used in the treatment of diabetes in 158 patients. 

Others in the research team were Professor Kamani Jayatilaka, and Dr. Piyumi Wasana.