The present invention relates to a novel use of a panduratin derivative or a Boesenbergia pandurata extract. More specifically, the invention relates to a composition for preventing and treating/relieving a metabolic disease selected from a group consisting of obesity, hyperlipidemia, hypercholesterolemia and diabetes, containing a panduratin derivative represented by Chemical Formula 1, 2 or 3 or a Boesenbergia pandurata extract as an active ingredient, a method for treating a metabolic disease selected from a group consisting of obesity, hyperlipidemia, hypercholesterolemia and diabetes, by administering an effective amount of the panduratin derivative or the Boesenbergia pandurata extract to a subject in need thereof, and a use of the panduratin derivative or the Boesenbergia pandurata extract to prepare a reagent for preventing and treating/relieving a metabolic disease selected from a group consisting of obesity, hyperlipidemia, hypercholesterolemia and diabetes.