The effect of boiled cosmos caudatus leaves on blood sugar levels in elderly patients with diabetes mellitus

In Indonesia, diabetes mellitus is one of the ten most common diseases among the elderly, with North Sulawesi Province having the highest prevalence. Cosmos caudatus leaves contain bioactive components, such as flavonoids and phenolic compounds, which have been shown to be effective in increasing insulin resistance and sensitivity in patients with DM. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of boiled Cosmos caudatus leaves on blood sugar levels in elderly patients with diabetes mellitus at the Bahu Health Center in Manado City. This study used a quantitative approach with a quasi-experiment, one-group pre-test post-test design. Ninety elderly respondents with diabetes mellitus at the Bahu Health Center in Manado City were included in this study. Blood sugar levels were measured before and after the intervention with boiled C. caudatus leaves. The intervention involved administering boiled water prepared from seven Cosmos caudatus leaves twice daily, in the morning and evening, at a dose of 250 ml each time. The findings showed that Cosmos caudatus exhibits a range of nutritional and phytochemical properties that support its use as a functional food. Its composition provides benefits for digestive health, energy provision, and antioxidant protection. There was a significant difference in the blood sugar levels of the respondents before and after the intervention. Statistical analysis showed a p-value of < 0.001. Therefore, it can be concluded that this intervention was significant. Boiled leaves of Cosmos caudatushave been proven to be effective in lowering blood sugar levels in elderly patients with diabetes mellitus.