Botanical Overview
Bryophyllum pinnatum belongs to the Crassulaceae family and is commonly known as Air plant, Life plant, Cathedral bells, Miracle leaf, and Four o’clock plant. The medicinal parts used are primarily the leaves and the whole plant. This succulent species is native to tropical regions of Asia and Africa and is widely naturalized in other tropical areas.
Energetics
The plant is characterized energetically as cooling and moistening, with bitter, astringent, and mucilaginous tastes. It has a relaxing tonicity and is mainly associated with promoting body fluids.
Primary Actions
- Anti-inflammatory
- Antimicrobial
- Wound healing
- Diuretic
- Antispasmodic
Indications
Western
- Wounds
- Kidney stones
- Cough
- Bronchitis
- Inflammation
- Pain
- Fever
Syndromes
- Urinary tract infections
- Inflammatory conditions
- Respiratory infections
TCM
- Cough
- Phlegm
- Inflammation
Syndromes
- Heat syndrome
- Lung heat
- Toxic heat
Ayurveda
- Wounds
- Inflammation
- Urinary difficulty
- Cough
Syndromes
- Pitta imbalance
- Kapha disorders
Unani
- Fever
- Pain
- Inflammation
- Respiratory issues
Syndromes
Constituents & Mechanisms
The plant contains bufadienolides, flavonoids, alkaloids, phenolic compounds, and glycosides, which contribute to its anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and diuretic properties.
Dosage & Preparations
- Leaf juice applied topically for wounds
- Decoction of leaves 10-30 mL 1-2 times daily
- Leaf infusion 2-4 g 1-2 times daily
Safety & Contraindications
Generally safe when used in traditional therapeutic doses; however, the presence of cardiac-active bufadienolides necessitates caution. It is contraindicated in pregnancy and lactation due to insufficient safety data. Potential interactions with cardiac glycosides and diuretics may occur. Avoid use in patients with cardiac diseases without medical supervision.
Astrological Correspondences
No well-supported planetary or elemental rulers identified in credible tradition sources.
Selected References
- Plant Resources of Tropical Africa: Bryophyllum pinnatum (PROTA)
- Phytochemical and pharmacological review of Bryophyllum pinnatum, Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 2006
- Medicinal Plants of the World, Ben-Erik van Wyk, 2005
- Ethnomedicinal uses of Bryophyllum pinnatum in Ayurveda and folk medicine, Indian Journal of Traditional Knowledge, 2013