How many of us from the Caribbean remember as children putting a ‘Wonder of The World/Leaf of Life’ leaf in our school book and watching over time as it sprouts roots? It is a plant of wonder to many of us, but we are mostly unaware of the excellent curative powers of the plant.
Wonder Of The World – The Miracle Plant
The ‘Wonder of The World’ (Kalanchoe pinnata) plant, also known as Miracle Leaf, Leaf of Life, Life Plant, Goethe Plant, Mexican Love Plant, Resurrection, Soanzo Leaf is much celebrated for its curing capabilities. This miracle plant is native to Madagascar. It has also become naturalized in Asia, the Pacific, and all over the Caribbean.
A recent study has revealed that the amazing Leaf of Life plant is a rich source of T-Cell suppressive flavonoids. What this means is that it has cancer-fighting properties.
Some Of The Other Constituents Of The Leaf Of Life Plant Are…
- Bryophillin A (anti-tumor)
- C- anticarcinogenic this means that it inhibits or prevents the activity of a carcinogen or the development of cancer
- Beta carotene. Beta carotene is converted by the body into vitamin A (retinol). We need vitamin A for healthy skin and mucous membranes, the immune system. Beta carotene is also important in promoting eye health and vision.
Internal Uses Of The Leaf of Life Plant Are…
1. Cancer
In studies conducted the extract of the plant decreased and arrested tumor growth, acting as a tumor-suppressing agent. It possesses antitumor activity. The wonder of the World plant exhibits the ability to kill the dysfunctional cells in cervical cancer patients.
3. Diabetes
Diabetes is a major risk for cardiovascular diseases such as strokes and heart attacks both of which affect the majority of the global population. A 2013 report showed that extracts of the Wonder of the World plant decreased the blood glucose level of rats affected by diabetes. Thus, decreasing the serum glucose level and increasing glucose tolerance. The Leaf of Life plant also increases the pancreatic secretion of insulin.
4. Kidney Stones
Fresh juice extracted from the Leaf of Life was administered to patients having stones in their body. A look at where stones Can form in the body.
Regular intake of the juice effectively dissolved the stones regardless of its position, nature and previous treatments. There was also an increase in the quantity of urine excreted, thus showing the diuretic nature of the juice.
5. Hypertension (high blood pressure).
The effects of the leaf extracts of the plant were examined on the blood pressure and heart rates of hypertensive rats. It resulted in significant decreases in blood pressure and heart rates of anesthetized rats.
6. Pregnancy
Studies have shown that the Leaf of Life could be beneficial for pregnant women. An animal study conducted in 2014 administered the plant extract to pregnant rats. The plant extract prevented them from gaining weight, while there were no adverse effects on both the mothers and their fetuses.
In the same year, a study was also conducted on human subjects. Pregnant women suffering from sleep issues were given 350 mg tablets that were 50% composed of Wonder of The World. At the end of the study, the women reported experiencing fewer wake-ups and improved quality of sleep. In this study, no adverse effects were reported either.
Sinuses and other respiratory illnesses; Colds and Flues & Headaches are additional ailments that the plant is used for.
External Uses Of Wonder of The World
Arthritis
Externally it is used for among other things – arthritis. To do this, the leaf is heated and placed on the affected area.
Cataracts
In treating cataracts and styes (hordeolum). Begin by boiling some of the leaves in hot water. Let it cool and then squeeze the juice in the affected area.
Cuts/Bruises/External Ulcers
It is also used for cuts and bruises and external ulcers. For sore, tired feet soak in a solution made by setting the leaves in warm water. Apply twice a day, morning and night, or as often as needed.
How To Use The Plant Internally
The best way to use the Wonder of The World/Leaf of Life plant is to make tea which can be taken once or twice a day as needed.
To make the tea put some water to boil. Once the water is boiling add the leaves of the plant. Let it simmer for a few minutes and then drink the tea without sugar added. Store the unused portion in a refrigerator and use as needed.