Distribution, ethnomedicinal uses, phytochemical profile and pharmacological activities of Kalanchoe pinnata (Lam.) Pers.: a review

Kalanchoe pinnata (Lam.) Pers. (Crassulaceae), also known as the "Life Plant", has been used in traditional medicine across various cultures for the treatment of numerous ailments such as wounds, respiratory infections, and kidney stones. In recent years, there has been growing interest in the scientific investigation of this plant to validate its traditional uses and to discover potential new therapeutic applications. This review summarizes the current status of traditional and ethnomedical utility, phytochemical profile, and established pharmacological activities of K. pinnata. It discusses the traditional uses of K. pinnata in various cultures, including India, Africa, and South America, and highlights different parts of the plant used for medicinal purposes. The Kalanchoe species consists of about 25 perennial succulent species, which have been propagated by leaf shedding and reported to contain bioactive compounds like bufadienolides, flavonoids, and isoprenoids. This genus is a native of Madagascar, and has homotypic synonyms, like Bryophyllum pinnatum, Crassula pinnata, Coyledon pinnata etc. and heterotypic synonyms like Kalanchoe calcicola, Cotyledon rhizophylla, Bryophyllum calycinum etc. The pharmacological activities of K. pinnata, such as anti-inflammatory, anti-microbial, anti-cancer, and anti-diabetic effects, are also discussed in detail. This article also describes the mechanisms of action underlying the pharmacological activities of the plant, including its effects on various cellular signaling pathways. In addition, the article highlights the potential toxicological effects of K. pinnata and the need for further investigation to establish its safety profile. highlights the B. pinnatum as a potential source of new therapeutic agents and the need for further research to validate its traditional uses and establish its safety and efficacy for medicinal purposes.