- Botanical Name: Bryophyllum pinnatum (also known as Kalanchoe pinnata)
- Family: Crassulaceae
- Synonyms: Patharchatta, Miracle Leaf, Cathedral Bells, Goethe Plant
- Vernacular Name: Commonly known as “Patharchatta” in Hindi, “Life Plant” in English,
and “Ranapala” in Marathi. - Classification: A succulent perennial herb belonging to the Crassulaceae family.
- Habitat: Native to Madagascar but widely naturalized in tropical and subtropical regions,
including India. It thrives in well-drained soils and sunny locations. - Morphology: A fleshy herb with thick, green, and ovate leaves that have scalloped edges.
The leaves produce small plantlets along their margins. The flowers are tubular, bell-shaped,
and greenish-pink, blooming in clusters. - Useful Parts: Leaves, stems, and roots.
- Chemical Composition: Contains flavonoids, alkaloids, triterpenoids, glycosides, and
organic acids. It is rich in bioactive compounds like bryophyllin and bufadienolides. - Pharmacological Action: Known for its anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, diuretic, and
wound-healing properties. It is used in treating kidney stones, urinary disorders, skin
infections, and wounds. It also has potential antioxidant and hepatoprotective effects. - Formulation: Used in traditional remedies like leaf decoctions for kidney health and
poultices for wound healing. It is also incorporated into herbal teas and Ayurvedic
formulations for urinary and digestive health.
Rasa: Tikta , Kashya
Guna: Laghu , Tikshan, Snigdha
Virya: Sheeta
Vipaka: Katu