The earth is a masterpiece, a beautiful ecosystem housing different species of flora and fauna which man have used both as food and medicine. Each culture, family or individual have certain types of animals which they eat and some which they don't. Personally I do not eat pork, although some people do and it's said to be a healthy meat. That's different strokes for different folks.
Amongst these floras which have been widely known to be medicinal plants is the "Bryophillum" also called the life plant or miracle leaf. Locally we call it Unwa or Ubommiri.
This wonder plant, Bryophillum is known for its ability to produce plantlets along its leaf margin, which can be detached and grown into new plants. One unique thing about this plant is its survival strength, it rarely dies off even in dry season as it depends on the water which it has retained over time to survive. Also once it's leaf drops on the soil instead of dying, it grows or forms a new plant.
The history of this remarkable gift of nature can be traced to Madagascar and South Africa where it originated from then to other parts of the world, where it has become a popular houseplant and medicinal herb in some cultures.
The growth rate of Bryophyllum is very fast such that once planted can spread within few months while growing new stems.
You don't have to be surprised if you see this plant in different colors like red, purple, pink, other than green color which it is widely known for. And yes, it grows flowers too, especially during spring and winter.
If you want to grow this wonder plant then make sure you do it in a well-drained sandy soil, and in an environment with bright indirect sunlight.
See where mine is, beside the wall away from the direct sunlight
You can grow it in buckets, rice or paint bags just like I did with mine.
Ensure it is watered regularly to promote healthy growth. Just like every other plant, Bryophillum requires periodic pruning and trimming to control it's size and equally stimulate new growth.
Just like mine, it's been for three years now and it grew so tall, spreading everywhere. It survived the dry season because I was watering it and immediately the rains came, I trimmed, Infact cut them, that's why they are this small, lol.
Bryophillum has been widely recognized as a medicinal plant because of it's medicinal properties which have been used to treat different ailments from . Let's see some of them;
- It can be used for skin treatment.
The leaves of Bryophillum is said to have antibacterial and antiseptic properties and that's why the sap from the leaves is very effective for the treatment of cuts, burns, wounds, and bruises. Not only that, the crushed leaves help relieve the pain from insect bites, pain and anxiety disorders.
Just get few leaves, wash, squeeze out the sap and then apply on the affected place.
Whenever I have a knife cut, that's what I use as first aid, very cool and doesn't pain.
- For digestive health:
The leaves and juice of miracle plant can be consumed as alternative treatments for stomach problems, such as indigestion, diarrhea and stomach pain.
This is one thing I love about this plant, and it's been very effective for me as in these areas. I have a very sensitive stomach and that's why I rarely eat out but whenever I do and I experience stomach discomfort or feel like throwing up, I just pluck some leaves, wash with salt and straight to my mouth. After chewing, I sap the water and throw away the remains. The funny thing is that I do carry them in my bag, sometimes though, lol.
- Can be taken as herbal tea
This miracle leaf when taken as tea can help relieve cough, cold, and respiratory conditions.
Ah, my special tea that I can take any time. hehehe. I will just pour boiled water in a cup, put the leaves inside and then cover so it can infuse into the hot water. After some minutes, my tea is ready. 😂.
Mom also take it as alternative medicine to help control high blood pressure. I actually and it's been very effective.
More Uses
Do you usually have knee pain or arthritis, try rubbing the areas with the squeezed leaves of Bryophillum.
Suffering constant headache, you can also try missing the crushed leaves with coconut oil and then apply on the affected area.
Do you suffer skin dehydration, you have a solution in miracle leaf.
Sometimes I squeeze the leaves and use the sap to rub on my skin after bath, especially at nights. I just did it yesterday. It has a calming effect on the skin.
Although Bryophillum is generally considered to be safe, it can be a bit toxic if ingested in large quantities or for prolonged periods of time. So one should be careful and cautious while using it.
Also on no account should a pregnant women take it,
Finally, before you take it, that's if you must, please consult your doctor first or dyor. I do not recommend it to anyone as and the testimonies I wrote are out of my own experience while using them.
Many thanks for reading, I hope to see you again.
Still the #threadsaddict 😂
This post is for the #aprilinleo topic for 23rd April.
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