The Health Benefits of Succulents: Nature’s Healers
Succulent plants have long been admired for their beauty, resilience, and ability to thrive in harsh environments.
Beyond their visual appeal, these hardy plants offer a range of health benefits that go far beyond the aesthetics of indoor gardening. In Africa, where these plants are native to many arid regions, succulents have been used for centuries in traditional medicine and skincare.
Their fleshy thick leaves allow them to store water, making them remarkably low-maintenance and drought-resistant, which makes them a perfect type of plant for indoor spaces.
But perhaps what’s even more impressive is their role in natural healing which is what I will be discussing in this article.
Traditional Medicinal Uses of Succulents in Africa
Succulent plants have played a vital role in African traditional medicine for centuries. Aloe Vera and cactus plants were often used to treat skin ailments, digestive issues, and even infections.The gel from the aloe plant is still commonly applied to burns, while Spekboom is known to relieve sore throats and indigestion.
In Northern Africa, cactus plants like prickly pear are consumed for their hydrating properties. In Southern Africa, succulents like Spekboom are grown for their environmental and medicinal benefits.
Here are the key uses of some other succulents in Africa:
- Hoodia: Traditionally used by the San people of Southern Africa, Hoodia is known for its appetite-suppressing properties. It has been used to curb hunger and thirst during long hunting trips in the desert.
- Kraalbos (Galenia africana): This succulent has been used by indigenous groups for its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. It's often applied as a poultice for sores, skin infections, and wounds.
- Elephant Bush (Portulacaria afra): Another succulent used traditionally, the leaves are chewed or infused in water to provide relief from heatstroke and fever. It is also believed to have immune-boosting effects.
Succulents Health Benefits and Nutritional Facts
Here’s are some of the most popular succulents and their health benefits:
Aloe Vera
One of the most well-known succulent plants is the aloe plant, which has been prized for its medicinal properties for thousands of years.
Native to parts of North Africa and the Arabian Peninsula, Aloe Vera thrives in hot, dry climates and is especially popular in African countries such as South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Namibia.
It’s praised for its ability to soothe and heal the skin, with its gel-like interior commonly used on burns, cuts, and dry skin.
The aloe plant is incredibly effective for sunburn relief. The cooling effect is almost immediate, and it continues to soothe the skin for hours after application.
Having one of these beautiful plants around my living space not only comes in handy for minor skin irritations but also adds a touch of greenery that’s aesthetically pleasing, particularly in low-light conditions.
The aloe plant is also a great addition to indoor environments due to its ability to help improve air quality by absorbing carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen, positively affecting overall humidity levels in the room.
Related: Aloe Vera Leaf Extract
Cactus Plants
Though Aloe Vera often gets the most attention, other succulent plants, such as cactus plants, offer their own unique health benefits.
The prickly pear cactus, which is commonly found in North African countries like Morocco and Algeria, is more than just a type of plant used for decoration—it’s often consumed for its high fiber content, which helps with digestion and blood sugar regulation.
I’ve tried prickly pear fruit in Moroccan markets, and while the taste is slightly tangy and sweet, it’s a refreshing snack, especially during the dry months. Prickly pear is also hydrating, making it ideal for hot climates.
This cactus plant works well in indoor spaces where you may want a drought-resistant plant that requires less water, making it an easy way to enjoy the beauty of new plants without much effort.
Spekboom
Spekboom (Portulacaria afra), native to South Africa, is another succulent known for its ability to withstand harsh conditions.
This plant has been used in traditional South African remedies to treat dehydration and malnutrition. Spekboom leaves are edible and provide a refreshing, moisture-rich snack.
What fascinates me about Spekboom is that it’s not only a resilient plant, but it also has the ability to absorb carbon dioxide at a high rate, contributing to a healthier indoor environment.
With its fleshy leaves and drought-resistant nature, it’s a great addition to any living space, especially for those looking for low-maintenance plants during the winter months.
Explore more African plants here: The Top 10 African Superfoods You Need to Add to Your Diet
Other Benefits of Succulent Plants
In addition to their health benefits, succulents play a vital role in improving indoor air quality.
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Absorb Carbon Dioxide
Many types of succulents, including the aloe plant and cactus plants, absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen, making them excellent natural air purifiers for indoor spaces. They remove the harmful toxins in the air.
2. Lower Stress Levels
This can help lower stress levels and even reduce symptoms of dry air, such as a dry cough, which is common during the winter months. For someone like me, who spends a lot of time indoors, these hardy plants are not only beautiful plants to look at but also provide practical benefits for my daily environment.
3. Help to Regulate Humidity Levels
Succulents also help to regulate humidity levels, which can have a positive effect on respiratory health.
4. Do not need much water to survive
Their ability to survive in low-light conditions and well-draining soil makes them an ideal choice for indoor plants. These little plants need much water, but only occasionally, making them an easy way to maintain greenery in your living space. They’re easier to care for than plants that need watering on a daily basis.
5. Act as a store water in arid climates
I’ve always found it incredible how these drought-resistant plants, which store water to survive in harsh conditions, offer so many benefits both for personal health and the environment.
Conclusion
Succulents are more than just small plants that brighten up a room—they are nature’s resilient healers. Whether it’s the soothing gel of the aloe plant, the hydrating properties of prickly pear cactus, or the eco-friendly benefits of Spekboom, these plants provide an array of health benefits that are as varied as their appearances.
Including succulent plants in your living space—whether for skincare, diet, or simply as a great addition to your indoor environment—can have a positive effect on your health and well-being.
References
https://www.britannica.com/plant/succulent
https://businesscasestudies.co.uk/amazing-history-of-succulents-where-do-they-come-from/
https://www.webmd.com/diet/supplement-guide-aloe-vera
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/318591
https://www.nutraingredients.com/Article/2023/07/10/Cacti-promising-components-and-health-benefits
https://www.webmd.com/diet/health-benefits-cactus
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/cacti-succulents/scgen/benefits-of-succulents.htm