Epiphyllum oxypetalum, commonly known as Brahma kamal, is a unique plant. These plants belong to the cactus family.
It blooms nocturnally, and its flowers wilt before dawn. The flowers grow on flattened stems and are up to 30 cm long and 17 cm wide, and are highly fragrant. It is widely cultivated in tropical areas, especially in Southeast Asia.
Brahma kamal is an easily cultivated, fast-growing Epiphyllum. It flowers in late spring through late summer; large specimens can produce several crops of flowers in one season. This is a widely cultivated Epiphyllum species.
It is known to have medicinal properties in many Asian cultures, including India, Vietnam, and Malaysia. The plant is widely used in traditional medicine to treat respiratory ailments and bleeding conditions and is also believed to have the property of reducing pain and inflammation.
Brahma kamal flowers:
It flowers in late spring through late summer; large specimens can produce several crops of flowers in one season. Keep the plants in direct sunlight to encourage flowering. The flowers last for only a day. Brahma Kamal comes in colors like pink, white and sometimes purple.
Uses of Brahma Kamal
- The flower is considered sacred and is used in many religious ceremonies and offerings.
- Watching it bloom is considered a sacred experience by many. It is said to bring luck and prosperity to those fortunate enough to see their bloom.
- This plant is grown on balconies. They can be grown in containers and indoors too.
Health benefits
- Brahma kamal is a natural antioxidant and a cardio-protective herb, and it is used in treating a host of heart ailments. In addition, it helps strengthen the heart muscles.
- It helps to prevent lipid build-up, reduce cholesterol levels in the blood
- The hypoglycaemic property of Brahma kamal flowers plays a significant role in alleviating blood sugar levels. The flower extracts activate insulin production in the pancreas.
- Brahma kamal is a remedy for treating respiratory disorders like asthma, bronchitis, cough, and cold symptoms. It also helps in removing mucus deposits from the respiratory tract.
- The flower extract reduces the formation of gas in the alimentary canal, thus reducing bloating and flatulence.
- It is a powerful remedy for constipation.
- This plant is used to relieve painful conditions like arthritis, muscle spasms, etc.
- It is strictly recommended to consult an ayurvedic doctor or practitioner, as the dosage may vary from person to person.
How to grow the Brahma kamal plant?
Soil
Brahma kamal needs a fast-draining soil type or potting soil medium. If it is growing in a container, ensure that it has enough drainage holes.
Watering
Brahma Kamal plant is a type of cactus, a succulent plant. Succulents store water in their leaves. So, when you water it, make sure to check the soil first. Overwatering will cause root rot.
Fertilizer
You should fertilize your Brahma kamal with compost manure once every month. The application of fertilizer can help your plant produce new growth. It ensures you have a healthy plant.
Re-potting
If you notice that your plant's pot is getting too small, then you should re-pot your plant. Make sure you remove all the old soil before re-potting your plant. Also, make sure that you add fresh soil. Water your Brahma kamal after you re-pot it.
Lighting
It can be grown with indirect light from a sunny window as well. Indirect sunlight will prevent the burning of leaves in peak summers.
Pests and diseases
The most common insect pest is mealy bugs. Other potential threats include aphids, scales, and mites. Pests and diseases are rare in the Brahma kamal plant.
Next step
Gardener services
Landscaping services
Online nursery
Organic pesticides and fertilizers
Extra reading
Gardening Plants - Top 9 Every Garden Needs
12 months flowering plants in India
Top 7 Night Blooming Fragrant Flowers
Happy Gardening!
Dr. Vandana K.