Description
Cotyledon orbiculata – Silver Pig’s Ear is an evergreen succulent shrub with erect to decumbent stems. The leaves are smooth, egg-shaped, and have a grey-green colour, tapering to a narrower point at the base. When grown in full sun, the edges of the leaves may turn red. The shape and colour of the leaves can vary within the species.
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Silver Pig’s Ear, Round-leafed Navel Wort
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Full sun/Indirect light - Partial shade
| “Soak and dry” method (Only when soil is dry)
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Skin conditions
The fleshy part of the leaf is traditionally applied to corn, warts, and other skin eruptions to soften and remove them.
Boils and inflammation
Use heated leaves as a press for boils and other inflammations.
Ear and toothache
Leaf juice, warmed, can be used as drops for earache and toothache.
Vermifuge
To expel intestinal worms, a single leaf is eaten.
Other uses
Some traditional uses include treating epilepsy with leaf juice and using a leaf decoction as an enema for syphilis.
Antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties
Cotyledon orbiculata have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects, with silver nanoparticles synthesized from the plant also exhibiting these properties.
Important Considerations:
Toxicity
Cotyledon orbiculata contains a toxic compound called cotyledontoxin, which can harm humans and animals if ingested.
Proper preparation
If using the plant medicinally, it’s crucial to know how to prepare it correctly and to use it cautiously, especially for internal use.
Professional advice
Always consult with a healthcare professional or traditional healer before using Cotyledon orbiculata for medicinal purposes, especially if you have any underlying health conditions or are taking other medications.
