Succulents are an amazing way to bring greenery into our homes. They are diverse, colorful, and pretty easy to keep alive (just in case you forget to water them once a month). But some succulents, like agave and aloe, can do much more than just look fabulous on display in your kitchen and living room. They belong to the powerful and versatile group of plants that throughout history has been successfully used to make anything from paper to soap. Plus, they are packed with healing properties. Now let’s take a look at the different types of succulent plants and their healing purposes.
Agave
You’ve probably heard of this succulent species – it’s used to make agave nectar and tequila. What you may not know is that agave plants also have antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties. Traditionally, agave has been used to treat cuts and burns and speed up wound healing. It can also be used for anything from jaundice to stomach ulcers to toothaches and menstrual problems.
Aloe Vera
Plants have a natural power to absorb toxins as well as carbon dioxide and release clean oxygen, making our homes healthier. However, some plants are better at purifying the air than others and aloe vera is one of them. But the benefits of these succulent plants don’t stop here.
Aloe vera has been used for centuries thanks to its healing properties, and today, it is one of the most widely used plants in the world. Aloa can be applied topically to treat cuts, burns, and bruises. The clear gel from the plant is often taken internally to treat bowel diseases, osteoarthritis, and fever.
Cactus
Cactus is a popular succulent species famous for its spines.
Although it is not among the most nurturing plants in the world, it has a ton of health benefits. It contains high levels of vitamin C, fiber, carotenoids, and betalains – a rare type of antioxidant. Some doctors recommend cactus to their patients as a food (boiled, grilled and eaten whole), as a supplement, or to drink it as a juice.
Yucca
The yucca plant contains saponins, which are chemical compounds that have exhibited anti-inflammatory properties. Historically, yucca has been used to soothe scratches and cuts and it has even been used as a treatment for dry cuticles. Nowadays, many herbalists and healers recommend boiling the roots for about half an hour and drinking it as a tea to relieve pain from inflammatory conditions, such as arthritis. Yucca is also packed with vitamins A, B, and C and it is a good source of calcium, copper, potassium, manganese, and fiber. All this makes it a potent health food.
As you can see, succulent plants are not only beautiful but they also have a variety of healing purposes. Let these plants bring powerful energy into your home and heal you in every way possible.
