Apart from tropical plants and succulents, our laboratory is engaged in the cultivation and propagation of medicinal plants. We want to introduce you to “Gynura” – Gynura procumbens. It is also called the longevity spinach, leaves of life, leaves of the gods, due to its positive effect on the human body and many testimonials about prolonging human life. As food and herb, not only the leaves are used, but also the tender young stems.

Healing Properties

Attention: The information provided below describes the known medicinal properties of Gynura procumbens without claiming completeness and accuracy, nor does it constitute specific medical advice. Consult a doctor before undertaking any form of treatment and be sure to check the correct identification of the plant!

The leaves and young twigs of Gynura procumbens are used in their fresh state for direct consumption and in salads, as well as cooked.

Gynura procumbens has antiviral activity against both types of herpes simplex HSV-1 and HSV-2. It is used externally and against other skin problems related to itching and inflammation. Internally it helps with fever, rashes, kidney diseases, migraine, constipation, high blood pressure, diabetes, and cancer, for faster wound healing.

It is also said to balance cholesterol levels and blood pressure. Its positive effects are so numerous that they can be summarized in one word as a general strengthening effect on the body.

3-6 leaves early in the morning on an empty stomach and as many in the evening before bedtime is the standard dosage for diabetes, where the herb normalizes blood sugar levels whether they are high or low; in other words, in the absence of diabetes, the herb does not artificially lower blood sugar levels below normal.

The juice from 7-8 leaves is used as eye drops, and the drained mass is placed on the eyelids for 20 minutes, then rinsed off.

The leaves, fresh or dried, can also be boiled into tea, where 9 large leaves are finely chopped and boiled on low heat for 2 minutes. It is left to cool down, strained, and drunk hot or cold.

Antiherpetic Effects of Gynura procumbens