Biological properties of different extracts of the Kalanchoe daigremontiana (“Mother of thousands”): a review

Kalanchoe daigremontiana (KD) is a succulent plant with widespread popular use as an anticancer and for the treatment of a variety of other diseases. The presence of bufadienolides (BFD), a cardiotoxic compound, and other substances may justify some of its biological properties, however, clinical studies and toxicity and safety data are still scarce. The objective of this systematic review was to describe KD’s biological properties and mechanisms, as well as its toxicity. Searches were performed in four databases with the descriptors: “kalanchoe daigremontiana” AND “cytotoxicity”, “antioxidant” OR “anti-inflammatory” OR “toxicity”. In total, 11 studies were included according to the PRISMA 2020 protocol. The aqueous and ethanolic extracts of KD showed important antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity, associated with the presence of flavonoids and phenols in the extracts. The extracts from fractions that were rich in BFD or dichloromethane showed anticancer (related to inhibition of mitochondrial dehydrogenase activity and reduction of glutathione level) and anticoagulant actions (due to reduced fibrin clot formation and increased degradation). More studies are still needed to demonstrate the concentration limits for beneficial effects and the toxic limitations of this species, which until then, cautious use and consumption of KD is recommended.