DEPARTMENT OF BOTANY
MEDICINAL PLANTS

Kalanchoe pinnata (Lam.) Pers.

Kalanchoe pinnata, commonly known as “Mother of Thousands”, “Chandelier Plant”, or “Life Plant”, is a succulent plant species belonging to the family Crassulaceae. This plant is renowned for its medicinal properties as well as its vivid foliage and easy propagation. It is native to Madagascar, but it is widely distributed across the world, especially in tropical and subtropical regions.
Botanical Details:
• Scientific Name: Kalanchoe pinnata (Lam.) Pers.
• Family: Crassulaceae
• Genus: Kalanchoe
• Species: pinnata
Common Names:
• English: Mother of Thousands, Life Plant, Chandelier Plant
• Malayalam: Elamurunga
• Tamil: Ranakalli
Botanical Description:
o Kalanchoe pinnata is a perennial succulent that grows 30–60 cm tall, but it can sometimes reach up to 1 meter (3 feet) under optimal conditions.
o It has fleshy, green leaves that are waxy and succulent in texture. The leaves are typically ovate or lance-shaped and arranged oppositely along the stem.
o The leaves are light green to dark green in color, and they sometimes show red margins or tips when exposed to full sunlight. The margins of the leaves often have small plantlets or pups, which can fall off and grow into new plants. This unique Uses:
1. Medicinal Uses:
o Kalanchoe pinnata has been used in traditional medicine for centuries, particularly in Africa, India, and the Caribbean. It is known for its wide range of medicinal properties.
o Wound Healing: The leaves of Kalanchoe pinnata are commonly used to treat wounds, cuts, bruises, and skin injuries. The crushed leaves or juice is applied directly to the affected area as a topical treatment for faster healing and reduced inflammation.
o Anti-inflammatory: The plant has strong anti-inflammatory properties. It is used to treat conditions like arthritis, rheumatism, and other inflammatory disorders. A paste of fresh leaves is applied to painful joints or swollen areas for relief.
o Respiratory Health: In some cultures, the plant is used as a remedy for respiratory issues, such as coughs, asthma, bronchitis, and congestion. The leaves are sometimes used in infusions or decoctions to help with breathing problems.
o Digestive Health: Kalanchoe pinnata is believed to have digestive benefits and is used to treat gastrointestinal issues such as gastritis, constipation, and stomach ulcers.
o Antioxidant: The plant contains compounds with antioxidant properties, which help in reducing oxidative stress and may contribute to overall health and disease prevention.
o Antimicrobial: Kalanchoe pinnata has antibacterial, antifungal, and antiviral properties. It is used in some traditional remedies for skin infections, fever, and other illnesses.
o Cancer Treatment: Some studies suggest that compounds from Kalanchoe pinnata may have anticancer properties, though more research is needed to confirm these effects.
2. Ornamental Uses:
o Kalanchoe pinnata is often grown as an ornamental plant due to its attractive, succulent foliage and ease of propagation. It can be used in gardens, pots, or hanging baskets.
o The plant’s ability to propagate by producing small plantlets makes it a popular choice for gardeners and collectors of succulents.