These Kalanchoe Varieties are as Good as an Aloe Vera! Find out what you can use them for in this article.
You might know Kalanchoe as a pretty houseplant with colorful flowers. But some Kalanchoe varieties are have benefits just like aloe vera! And guess what? They might have similar benefits! This article will tell you about these special Kalanchoe varieties that are delicious and good for you.
Benefits of Kalanchoe Varieties are as Good as an Aloe Vera
1. Easy to Grow
Kalanchoes are known for being easy-going plants and are perfect for beginner gardeners. They share some traits with cacti, too, and store water in their fleshy leaves, requiring less water in their care routine.
With a little sunshine and well-draining soil, your Kalanchoe should thrive quickly. Go with the Mother of Millions (Kalanchoe daigremontiana)—you can easily propagate it via stem cuttings or even a leaf.
2. Have Minimal Demands
Kalanchoes are easy to care for and require minimal attention. They don’t need constant attention and are happy with a sunny spot. For watering, the key is not to overwater; water the plant only when the topsoil is dry.
Why don’t you go with Kalanchoe Fire Rainbow? It doesn’t need fancy fertilizers or repotting every year.
3. Act as an Air Purifier
Kalanchoe is a natural air purifier that releases water and removes impurities, including volatile chemical molecules. This process enhances indoor air quality, increases humidity, and prevents dryness in the throat and nose.
It also maintains healthier, moisturized skin. Most Kalanchoe varieties are air purifying, but if you want the best, go with Panda Plant (Kalanchoe tomentosa).
4. Supports Respiratory Health
Kalanchoe marnieriana has been a go-to remedy for respiratory issues in traditional medicine. The leaves can help clear your airways and make breathing easier when you have a cold or cough. A warm tea made from Kalanchoe leaves can be just the thing to soothe a sore throat and reduce congestion.
Note: Always check with a healthcare professional before using any plant medicinally, especially if you have health conditions or are pregnant.
5. Feng Shui plant
According to Feng Shui, consider placing the Kalanchoe in your office, working space, or near the entrance hall of your home. If the greish hues don’t clash with your living room’s colors, that’s also a good spot. South-facing directions are great for Kalanchoes. However, it is best to avoid putting Kalanchoes in the restroom or bedroom.
Do you want to know a secret? Christmas Kalanchoe (Kalanchoe bracteata) is the best one for this.
6. Reduces Stress
Research indicates that individuals working near plants experience reduced stress and anxiety levels. Adding indoor Kalanchoe varieties into workspaces and offices can enhance the mental well-being of employees.
If you want a stress buster that has brilliant foliage and pretty flowers, go with the Flaming Katy (Kalanchoe blossfeldiana).
7. Fights Inflammation
Kalanchoe varieties, especially Kalanchoe pinnata or patharchatta, are fantastic for fighting inflammation. Traditionally, people have used them to soothe inflamed skin and joints. Plus, packed with vitamins and antioxidants, Kalanchoe can give your immune system a real boost, too. If you have sore muscles or a minor injury, just crush a few leaves and apply the paste to the area. It works like magic!
Tip: Try making a simple poultice with Kalanchoe leaves to experience its anti-inflammatory benefits.
8. Great for Skincare
When talking about skincare, the Kalanchoe variety that tops the list is Mother of Thousands (Kalanchoe daigremontiana). It has a history of traditional use for skin concerns and has properties that help heal wounds, reduce inflammation, and even fight bacteria.
Many people use it as a part of their skincare routine for smoother skin, acne, and wrinkles. There’s also research that supports its benefits.
9. Medicinal Benefits
Historically, Kalanchoe leaves were used to ease digestive problems such as gastritis, ulcer stomach, and inflammation. But they have many more benefits in medicine than this.
Mother of Thousands (Kalanchoe daigremontiana) has interesting foliage, which makes it a great anti-diabetic, antimicrobial, anti-cancer, and anti-urolithiasis herb. Some studies suggest that compounds found in this plant may help fight cancer cells. However, it’s important to use it properly due to its toxicity. Always consult with a healthcare professional before using it medicinally to ensure safety and proper dosage.
10. Anti-Diabetic Properties
By now, we’ve told you how Kalanchoes are easy-care, low-maintenance plants that can do wonders for the indoor space and your body. But we haven’t told you that these plants are being studied because they can help combat diabetes.
Kalanchoe pinnata extract has been shown to reduce Streptozocin and postprandial blood glucose levels in diabetes. It also helps regulate other substances belonging to diabetes and supports insulin secretion. And, like aloe vera, Kalanchoe can be a helpful ally in weight loss, too!
Remember: While some Kalanchoe species are considered safe for consumption, it’s important to correctly identify the variety before ingesting any part of the plant. Many Kalanchoe species are toxic and can cause serious illness.
But that doesn’t mean you should not reap their benefits. Go on, try these out for yourself, and let us know your experience in the comments!
