Tag: Bufadienolides

According to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA), Kalanchoe is toxic to dogs and cats, and all parts of the plant contain poisonous substances called bufadienolides. Therefore, answering the question of how to eat Kalanchoe requires understanding that, for most people, the correct answer is not to eat it at all.

Over 200 species belong to the genus Kalanchoe, many of which are popular ornamental houseplants, but almost all contain potent toxins. This means you should never eat Kalanchoe leaves, as they can cause significant gastrointestinal and cardiac problems in humans and pets.

Over 90 years ago, the 'Wonder of the World' plant, scientifically known as *Kalanchoe pinnata*, began being used in anthroposophical therapy based on indications from Rudolf Steiner. While this succulent has been used in various traditional remedies for centuries, its edibility and safety are not as straightforward as many believe.

Despite its beautiful and fascinating appearance, the Mother of Thousands plant is toxic and should never be consumed. Its leaves and tiny plantlets contain cardiac glycosides, making the answer to the question, "Can I eat the mother of thousands plant?" a definitive and dangerous "no".

While Kalanchoe is a stunning ornamental succulent, it contains bufadienolide cardiac glycosides that make it toxic if ingested by humans or animals. This makes it a houseplant to admire for its beauty, not to consume.