The Century Plant is famous all around the world for its breathtaking appearance and incredible longevity. A cluster of fleshy, succulent, curving leaves that can develop a tall flower spike up to 30 feet high and with beautiful yellow flowers.
The plant lives for 10-30 years, not a century, but its surprising beauty, adaptability, and medicinal importance have made it an iconic choice for plant lovers globally for their gardens.
The Cultural Significance of Century Plant
The plant is well adapted to arid and semi-arid environments and is commonly associated with desert and coastal regions. Despite being native to the Americas the plant has been cultivated and introduced to other parts of the world.
Although mainly an evergreen ornamental plant, Native Americans have utilized the century plant for various purposes for a long time. This makes it a valuable and versatile resource. Some traditional uses by Native American tribes include:
- Food: Consuming the young flower stalk, leaves, and the piña (heart) after roasting.
- Fiber: Crafting ropes, cordage, baskets, mats, and clothing from agave fibers.
- Medicine: Employing various plant parts for a variety of treatments.
- Construction: Using spines-removed leaves as thatch for roofing and walls.
- Used in Animal Feeds: The use of invasive species is very beneficial for the environment.
- Religious and Cultural Significance: Incorporating the plant into rituals and ceremonies.
- Tools and Implements: Crafting tools from the sharp, pointed leaves.
These traditional uses highlight the resourcefulness and sustainability of Native American cultures in utilizing the century plant for food, clothing, shelter, and various other practical purposes.
The Medicinal Importance of Century Plant
Natural plants always provide core compounds for new drug development. Century Plant is such a natural source of these compounds having a variety of Effects on the body.
1. Wound Healing:
Century plant leaves contain a gel-like sap that can be applied topically to wounds and burns. The antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties accelerate the healing and reduce inflammation.
- The sap can be applied directly to the wound.
- It can also be used to make a poultice or compress.
- Century plant leaves can also be dried and ground into a powder, which can then be applied to the wound.
The plant also contains many vitamins and minerals that are important for wound healing, such as vitamin C, vitamin K, and zinc.
2. Anti-Inflammatory:
The sap from the leaves may have anti-inflammatory properties and can be used to soothe skin irritations and insect bites. The plant contains flavonoids and genins which have been shown to have anti-edematous (prevents leaking of fluid in the body tissues) effects in the initial phase of inflammation. (1)
3. Pain Relief:
It has been used in traditional medicine for various purposes, such as wound healing and pain relief. The topical application of century plant sap or poultices may help relieve pain associated with conditions like arthritis or muscle soreness.
The specific active analgesic ingredients in this plant are not well-documented in scientific literature. However, the pain-relieving properties of Century Plant may be attributed to a combination of compounds found in the plant.
4. Digestive Health:
In traditional medicine, the century plant has been used to treat gastrointestinal issues such as constipation, indigestion, and diarrhea. The recent researches have also shown to reduce the risk of gut disorders. The century plants contain chemicals which decrease the risk of development of ulcerative colitis. Though research is still underway but the proven outcomes in traditional medicine cannot be denied. (2)
5. Respiratory Health:
Some people have used century plant preparations to reduce the symptoms of respiratory conditions, like coughs and bronchitis. The plant has expectorant properties, which means that it can help to loosen and expel mucus from the airways. The mucus carries the infectious particles and irritants out of your body making it easier to breathe.
Inflammation is a major component of many respiratory diseases such as asthma and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary disease (COPD). Research has shown the effectiveness of Century Plant extract against these diseases. However, more research is to be conducted.
The antimicrobial effect of the plant also helps to kill the bacteria and several other microbes involved in respiratory diseases.
6. Effective against diabetes:
The plant is rich in polyphenols and flavonoids which can help lower blood sugar. This is why traditionally people have been using the plant for diabetes treatment. This also has an overall effect of reduced neurological complications associated with diabetes.
This practice is very common and has also been associated with lowering cholesterol in the body. Diabetics can safely add this plant to the diet. (3)
7. Liver Health:
In Ethiopian culture, the century plant has been widely used to treat a variety of liver illnesses. Recent research conducted earlier this year also proves this property of this plant. The Plant can reverse the damage caused to the liver by paracetamol, alcohol, and other toxins. It also reversed the fatty changes that occurred in the liver. In the future, more research are likely to prove this traditional remedy which will revolutionize liver treatment. (4)
8. Improved Cognitive Functions:
The Aglycone compounds found in the plant have shown to reduce the occurrence of neurodegenerative disorders. (5) The plant is also rich in antioxidants. This component is vital for maintaining the brain health and prevents the cognitive decline which is accompanied by age. This is can also prove beneficial in avoiding the risk of Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease. (6)
9. Skin Care:
The plant has been used for centuries in traditional medicine to treat a variety of skin conditions, including acne, eczema, and psoriasis. The sap of century plant can be used in skincare products for its moisturizing and soothing properties. The antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties also help to improve overall skin health along with the Vitamins that are present in the plant.
10. Antimicrobial:
Some studies suggest that century plant extracts have antimicrobial properties, which can help combat infections. The phytochemical constituents and antibacterial activity of leaf extracts of the plant actively fight against Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Salmonella thyphi. The antibiotic activity is comparable to that of a popular antibiotic gentamycin. (7) These microbes are involved in a variety of diseases.
This property also tells why the plant is so good in treating wounds.
11. Laxative Properties:
It has been used for centuries to treat constipation. It contains compounds that can help to soften stool and stimulate bowel movements.
It helps with constipation by stimulating the production of bile. Bile is a digestive fluid that helps to break down fats. When bile is produced helps soften stool and make it easier to pass.
Century plant also contains compounds that can help to stimulate the muscles in the colon. The colon is responsible for storing and eliminating waste products. When the muscles in the colon are stimulated, they can help to move stool through the colon and out of the body.
The use of the plant as a laxative should be approached with caution and under proper guidance.
12. Antioxidant properties of century plant:
Agave plants in general, including the century plant, contain compounds including flavonoids, carotenoids, and vitamin C that have antioxidant properties, potentially aiding in overall health by several ways.
- Antioxidants can help to promote cardiovascular health by improving blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and blood circulation reducing the risk of heart disease and stroke.
- Protecting the skin from damage caused by the sun and other environmental factors. Also reduce the signs of aging.
- Help prevent a variety of cancers which are mainly triggered by regular cell damage prevented by antioxidants.
- Improve eye health by reducing oxidative damage
- Prevent arthritis
13. Diuretic Property of Century Plant:
Some traditional remedies use century plants to promote diuresis (increased urine production), which may help with fluid balance in the body.
- Fluid retention is a condition in which the body holds on to too much fluid. This can cause swelling in the feet, ankles, legs, and abdomen. The plant can help to reduce fluid retention by increasing the production of urine.
- This can help to lower blood pressure by increasing the excretion of sodium and water from the body.
- The diuretic effect lowers the risk of developing kidney diseases, stones, and promotes weight loss.
The medicinal side effects of Century Plant
Century Plant has a number of medicinal properties, but it can also have some side effects.
It’s important to exercise caution when using these plants for medicinal purposes, as the sap can cause skin irritation and allergic reactions in some individuals. Also, the laxative effects should be used occasionally and with care. Here are some of the most common medicinal side effects of century plant.
- Diarrhea: Century plant can cause diarrhea, especially in high doses. This is because century plant contains saponins, which can irritate the digestive tract.
- Stomach cramps: Agave plant can also cause stomach cramps, especially in people with sensitive stomachs.
- Skin irritation: Century plant sap can irritate the skin, especially in people with sensitive skin.
- Nausea and vomiting: A. Americana can cause nausea and vomiting, especially in high doses.
- Dizziness: Century plant can cause dizziness, especially in people who are taking certain medications.
- Headache: Century plant can cause headaches, especially in people who are taking certain medications.
- Allergic reactions: Century plants can cause allergic reactions in some people. Symptoms of an allergic reaction to the plant may include hives, swelling, difficulty breathing, and anaphylaxis
Always consult with a healthcare professional or herbalist before using Century Plant or any other natural remedies if you have underlying health conditions or are taking medications.
General Cautions
- Start with a low dose and increase the dose gradually as tolerated.
- Do not use if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
- Do not use if you have any allergies to other plants in the Agavaceae family, such as lilies, onions, and garlic.
- Do not use Century plant if you are taking any medications, as it may interact with them.
- Stop using if you experience any side effects.
If you have any questions or concerns about the use of Century Plant, please talk to your doctor.
How to extract the medicinal goodness?
There are a variety of ways this plant can be used to attain its medicinal bliss.
- Topical Applications:
Wound Healing: Apply the gel-like sap from the leaves topically to wounds, cuts, and burns to promote healing.
Skin Irritations: Use the sap to soothe skin irritations, insect bites, and rashes.
- External Poultices:
Create poultices by mashing or crushing century plant leaves and applying them externally to sore muscles, swollen joints, or inflamed areas.
- Infusions and Teas:
Boil or steep the leaves in water to create infusions or teas that are traditionally consumed to address digestive issues or respiratory conditions. This should be done under the guidance of a knowledgeable herbalist.
- Tinctures:
Prepare tinctures by steeping the leaves in alcohol or another solvent. These tinctures may be used in small doses for specific medicinal purposes.
- Inhalant:
Simply steam century plant leaves in a pot of hot water. Inhale the steam for 5-10 minutes. You can do this 2-3 times per day. You can also make tea of dried leaves.
- Capsules and Supplements:
Some companies offer century plant-based supplements or capsules, which should be taken as directed on the product label.
- Oral Consumption (with caution):
In traditional medicine, the sap from the leaves or other preparations has been ingested for various health concerns. However, consuming the century plant internally should be approached with extreme caution due to potential toxic effects.
- Consultation and Professional Guidance:
Before attempting any of these methods, consult with a healthcare professional, herbalist, or naturopathic practitioner who can provide personalized advice and dosages.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the century plant offers a range of potential medicinal uses based on traditional knowledge. However, these practices should be approached with caution, ideally under the guidance of a healthcare professional or herbalist.
While the plant has been valued for wound healing, skin treatments, and other applications, its efficacy and safety can vary. Its primary role is ornamental, cultural, and historical, contributing to landscape beauty and eco-friendly practices. Always prioritize safety and consult experts when considering the century plant for medicinal purposes.
References
- Misra AK, Varma SK, Kumar R. Anti-inflammatory Effect of an Extract of Agave americana on Experimental Animals. Pharmacognosy Res. 2018 Jan-Mar;10(1):104-108. doi: 10.4103/pr.pr_64_17. PMID: 29568196; PMCID: PMC5855365.
- Mannasaheb BA, Kulkarni PV, Sangreskopp MA, Savant C, Mohan A. Protective effect of Agave americana Linn. leaf extract in acetic acid-induced ulcerative colitis in rats. Ayu. 2015 Jan-Mar;36(1):101-6. doi: 10.4103/0974-8520.168998. PMID: 26730148; PMCID: PMC4687229.
- Aleem A, Shahnaz S, Javaid S, Ashraf W, Rasool MF, Ahmad T, F Alotaibi A, Albeshri KS, Alqahtani F, Imran I. Chronically administered Agave americana var. marginata extract ameliorates diabetes mellitus, associated behavioral comorbidities and biochemical parameters in alloxan-induced diabetic rats. Saudi Pharm J. 2022 Oct;30(10):1373-1386. doi: 10.1016/j.jsps.2022.06.003. Epub 2022 Jun 13. PMID: 36387342; PMCID: PMC9649343.
- Ayenew KD, Wasihun Y. Hepatoprotective effect of methanol extract of Agave americana leaves on paracetamol induced hepatotoxicity in Wistar albino rats. BMC Complement Med Ther. 2023 Apr 1;23(1):99. doi: 10.1186/s12906-023-03931-y. PMID: 37005601; PMCID: PMC10067186.
- Shegute T, Wasihun Y. Antibacterial Activity and Phytochemical Components of Leaf Extracts of Agave americana. J Exp Pharmacol. 2020 Nov 3;12:447-454. doi: 10.2147/JEP.S258605. PMID: 33173356; PMCID: PMC7648529.