Products
Medicines containing Bryophyllum are commercially available as powders, drops, chewable tablets, globules, and injectable solutions (Weleda, Wala), among others. Bryophyllum was introduced into anthroposophic medicine by Rudolf Steiner in 1921. He recommended it for the treatment of hysteria. Its use as a labor inhibitor can be traced back to the German gynecologist Dr. Werner Hassauer. Today, Bryophyllum is also being studied scientifically.
Stem plant
(Synonym: ) from the family Crassulaceae is a perennial succulent plant with fleshy leaves native to Madagascar. What is special about this plant is its ability to reproduce vegetatively with brood buds that form on the edges of the leaves.
Medicinal drug
As a medicinal drug, the leaves are usually used. Extracts and a pressed juice are made from them.
Ingredients
The ingredients include:
- Flavonoids
- Triterpenes
- Steroids
- Phenanthrene
Bryophyllum contains cardiac bufadienolides, which are also found in the glandular secretions of toads ( sp.).
Effects
The preparations have anticonvulsant, sedative, sleep-inducing, antimicrobial, antiallergic, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and antitumor properties, among others.
Fields of application (selection)
- During pregnancy as a labor inhibitor to prevent premature birth.
- Restlessness, states of agitation, sleep disorders.
- Hyperactivity, ADHD
- Hyperactive bladder (irritable bladder)
- Susceptibility to particular forms of functional disorders and recurrent inflammation in the metabolic system.
Dosage
According to the professional information. The application depends on the preparation. Bryophyllum is administered perorally and parenterally as a finished drug product.
Contraindications
Bryophyllum is contraindicated in cases of hypersensitivity. Refer to the drug label for complete precautions.
Adverse effects
Bryophyllum is considered to be well tolerated. Very rarely, hypersensitivity reactions may occur. The bufadienolides have shown toxic effects in animals. Therefore, levels in medicinal products should be controlled.