Description
Portulacaria afra variegata is a slow-growing succulent shrub. It has reddish-brown stems and thick, fleshy green leaves with cream edges. When it is grown in full sunlight, the leaf edges can turn pink. This plant is great for bonsai, hanging baskets, or as ground cover.
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Rainbow Bush, Variegated Elephant Bush | 3.6 meters in height & 1.8 meters wide |
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| late Spring - early Summer |
| “Soak and dry” method
Low in Summer |
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Traditional Uses:
Skin ailments
You can use crushed leaves to treat sunburns, insect stings, rashes, and pimples.
Sore throats
Chewing the leaves can help soothe sore throats and treat mouth infections.
Blisters
Crushed leaves can be used as a poultice to treat blisters.
Other uses
Some communities use it to help increase the amount of breast milk in breastfeeding mothers. It also helps to quench thirst, treat exhaustion and dehydration.
Medicinal Properties:
Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory
Research shows that P. afra has compounds that can reduce inflammation and act as antioxidants.
Antimicrobial
Some studies suggest it may have antimicrobial activity.
Phytochemicals
Portulacaria afra has compounds known as phytochemicals, including flavonoids and phenols. Both have medicinal properties.
Variegated Form
Some sources indicate that variegated leaves may be more bitter than the green-leaved variety.
Important Note:
While traditional uses are well-documented, further research is needed to fully understand its medicinal properties and safety in treating different ailments.
