Keeping A Legacy Alive

This leaf speaks volumes about what is possible when we look to the simple and the small for wisdom.

Native to Africa, the scientific name is Kalanchoe pinnata. It is also known as Bryophyllum pinnatum and Cotyledon pinnata, and often referred to as the miracle leaf. This magical little succulent can be found thriving in many different parts of the world today.

Each leaf that falls is capable of regenerating an entirely new plant from the seeds along the edge and has been called upon for centuries for its healing benefits. 

This little “wonder of the world” as it is referred to in Trinidad is known by many different names and has become a common folk remedy for a variety of cultures.

“Study nature, love nature, stay close to nature. It will never fail you.” Frank Lloyd Wright

With its antibacterial, antiviral, antimicrobial, antifungal, and antihistamine properties, it can be of great benefit to respiratory conditions. It is helpful with coughs, flu, and shortness of breath and as a result, has become a popular remedy in Jamaica for bronchitis and asthma.

Along with its immune-enhancing properties, it supports a good night’s rest by calming the nerves and also relieves pain. 

Its microbial nature makes it a great wound healer and skin protector as well. 

The plant is often referred to as a weed because it is able to thrive no matter the environmental condition. It is self-propagating and one of the easiest plants to cultivate and share. It doesn’t even need soil in order to grow.

The leaves are usually made into a tea, but can also be juiced and used topically or eaten raw.

In order to make a tea, it is as simple as pouring boiling water over the leaves, allowing it to seep for 5–10 minutes, and then straining it.

The healing capacity of plants like this one can easily get lost over time. Honoring diversity and culture is one way to preserve wisdom such as this.

Let’s keep the legacy of affordable and accessible healthcare alive in our own yards and communities. Nature will show us the way.

“In all things of nature, there is something of the marvelous.” Aristotle

Image by Paul C Lee from Pixabay