A Haitian Treasure: Fey Lougawou (Wonder of the World Plant)
In Haiti, there is a plant called fey lougawou (Kalanchoe pinnata), which is celebrated for its curing capabilities. This plant is known as Miracle Leaf, Life Plant and Wonder of the World in English. This succulent plant is native to Madagascar, but has become naturalized in Asia, the Pacific, and all over the Caribbean, especially in Haiti. It has an amazing ability to replicate over and over again. This plant is known to grown any and everywhere; all it needs is the tiniest bit of soil. A new plant will begin to grow by itself without water in just a few days; I have seen this many times.
People are usually able to identify this plant based on miniature platelets which form on the margins of its leaves. Fey lougawou is not only a Haitian treasure, but a world treasure too.
In Haiti, fey lougawou is known for treating everything.
This plant is most popular for treating headaches, sinuses, colds, and most of all hypertension. Seeing as this plant has the ability replicate by itself, fey lougawou is readily available in Haiti. Fey lougawou is most commonly consumed as a leaf infusion or tea, but it can also be applied topically to alleviate muscle aches. In Haiti, some combine the crushed leaves with lard to form a paste, that can supposedly cure different types of body aches. Another option is to heat the leaves, then place a heat pad or a hot water bottle on top to release its healing properties, then put everything on the aching body part.
Main Constituents:
bryophillin A and C: anti-carcinogenic
beta-carotene
Some Benefits:
anti-bacterial, anti-rheumatic, anti-hypertensive
used to treat upper respiratory infections
can cure a variety of body aches
A 2012 study showed that this amazing plant is a rich source of T-Cell suppressive flavonoids, meaning it has serious anti-cancer properties. Wow!
reduces blood pressure
Some Uses:
can be applied topically to hemorrhoids, wounds cuts, ulcers, etc.
drink as a tea
can be applied to various body parts to alleviate aches and pains
for a relaxing foot soak, place a few leaves in a basin filled with hot water, adding calming essential oils for an extra oomph