The miracle plant (Kalanchoe pinnata): A phytochemical and pharmacological review

Article in International Journal of Research in Ayurveda and Pharmacy 2(5) · May 2011 License: CC BY-NC 4.0 Dr Quazi Majaz Ahamad Aejazuddin 5.29Ali-Allana College of Pharmacy A U Tatiya Not on ResearchGate Molvi Khurshid 5.87Ibn Sina National College for Medical Studies Shaikh Siraj Not on ResearchGate Abstract Kalanchoe is a succulent perennial plant that grows 3-5 feet tall. Commonly known as 'air plant,' it has tall hollow stems, fleshy dark green leaves that are distinctively scalloped and trimmed in red, and bell-like pendulous flowers. Kalanchoe is botanically classified with two main Latin names which refer to the same plant: Bryophyllum pinnatum and Kalanchoe pinnatum (as well as various synonyms of both). This review presents detailed survey of literature on phytochemical and medicinal properties of the plant. The chemicals reported from the plant belong to different classes such as alkaloid, diterpenoidal lactones, glycosides, steroids, phenolics, aliphatic compounds, etc. The notable pharmacological properties include anti-diabetic, anti-neoplastic, antioxidant, immunomodulation, anti-lipidaemic, anti-allergic and many more activities which are yet to be explored. KEYWORD: Kalanchoe pinnata, Phytoconstituent, Pharmacological activity. INTRODUCTION Kalanchoe is a medicinal plant largely used in folk medicine for the treatment of kidney stones, gastric ulcer, pulmonary infection, rheumatoid arthritis etc. Kalanchoe pinnata has become naturalized in temperate regions of Asia and Hawaii. In many of these, such as Hawaii, it is regarded as an invasive species. In French Polynesia, Kalanchoe pinnata has been declared a threat to biodiversity. It is also widely distributed in the Philippines and it is known as katakataka or kataka-taka which is also an adjective meaning astonishing or remarkable. In India it is cultivated in gardens and wild on the hills of North-Western India, Deccan and Bengal.