Binahong Leaf Benefits: Nature’s Secret Wound Healer and Wellness Booster
Discover the traditional and modern uses of Anredera cordifolia in herbal medicine, skincare, and overall health
1. Botanical Origins and Classification
Binahong (Anredera cordifolia) is a perennial (long-lived) vine of the Basellaceae family, order Caryophyllales. It originated in the plains of China (known as Dheng Shan Chi), then spread to Korea, Taiwan, Vietnam, and Southeast Asia, including Indonesia. In Vietnam, this plant was used during the war against the US (1950-1970s) for the healing of army wounds. In Indonesia, binahong is known by local names such as gendola or piyahong.
2. Morphology and Growing Conditions
Physical Characteristics:
Leaves: Heart-shaped, thick, smooth surface, dark green (green variant) or reddish (red variant).
Stem: Soft, cylindrical, capable of growing up to 5 meters and entangling surrounding structures.
Flowers: Compound, beige-colored, fragrant, appear on the armpits of the leaves.
Root: Soft-fleshed rhizome.
Growing Conditions:
Climate: Grows optimally in the tropics (temperature 15–30°C), tolerant of lowlands to high altitudes (5–1,000 meters above sea level).
Soil: Adaptive to different types of soil, especially loose and well-drained.
Light: Requires full to partial sunlight.
Development: Fast-growing and invasive, often used as a fence or wall covering.
3. Myths and Traditional Beliefs
Binahong is often dubbed the "medicine of the gods" in traditional Asian medicine due to its claims of miraculous healing, such as:
The ability to heal severe burns in just a matter of days.
The effect of "rejuvenation" to restore stamina after severe illness.
Myth as an antidote to free radicals that cause premature aging and cancer.
Note: This claim has not been fully clinically tested in humans and requires further research.
4. Nutrient Content and Active Compounds
It contains bioactive compounds, including:
Antioxidant: Flavonoid, saponin, tannin, polyphenol, betacarotene, lutein.
Vitamins: A, C, E, and B complexes.
Minerals: Calcium, potassium, iron, phosphorus.
Other Compounds: Organic acids, glucan C, mucopolysaccharide, alkaloids.
5. Utilization for Health and Medicine
A. Internal Use (Consumed):
Wound Healing & Post-Operative:
Accelerates cell regeneration through stimulation of collagen production.
Boiling 20 leaves in 3 cups of water is drunk 1x/day for energy recovery.
Diabetes Control:
Flavonoids inhibit the enzyme α-glucosidase (a breakdown of carbohydrates into glucose) and increase insulin sensitivity.
The ITB study showed that binahong extract is equivalent to conventional diabetes drugs with minimal side effects.
Heart and Kidney Health:
Lowers bad cholesterol (LDL) via saponins.
Potassium and flavonoids help detoxify the kidneys and stabilize blood pressure.
Anticancer and Immunomodulator:
Terpenoid compounds and flavonoids inhibit the growth of cervical cancer cells.
Increase white blood cell activity against infection.
Gout & Anti-Inflammatory:
Inhibits the enzyme xanthine oxidase that triggers gout.
Analgesic effect for joint and muscle pain.
B. External (Topical) Use:
Burns/Acne: Puree the leaves, apply as a paste for antibacterial and speed healing.
Skin Care: The binahong leaf mask improves skin moisture and elasticity, as well as fights premature aging.
Table: Practical Application of Binahong in Traditional Medicine
| Health Conditions | How to Use | Dose |
|---|---|---|
| Burns/acne | Leaf paste is applied to the skin area | 2x a day until recovery |
| Diabetes | Leaf decoction is drunk | 3 leaves in 2 cups of water, 2x/day 4 |
| Hypertension | Leaf decoction + honey | 8 leaves in 2 cups of water, 1x/day 6 |
| Anemia | Lemon mixed leaf juice | 1x a day for 1 month |
6. Side Effects and Contraindications
Allergic Reactions: Itching, swelling, or difficulty breathing if sensitive.
Indigestion: Nausea if consumed in excess or on an empty stomach due to tannins.
Hypotension & Hypoglycemia: The risk of a drastic drop in blood pressure/sugar in people who are already taking medication.
Pregnant/Breastfeeding Women: A doctor's consultation is mandatory even though animal studies show safety.
⚠️ Warning: Binahong is not a substitute for primary medical treatment, especially for critical illnesses such as cancer, cataracts, or kidney failure.
7. Cultivation and Sustainability
Binahong is easy to cultivate in the yard of the house through stem cuttings. This plant is relatively pest-resistant, but it needs regular pruning due to its invasive nature. In Indonesia, binahong has been commercialized in the form of supplements (e.g. Cordetes by PT Phytochemindo) and wound healing gels.
Conclusion
Binahong is an adaptive plant with wide therapeutic potential, ranging from wound healing to metabolic disease control. Although the myth of its sacredness needs to be criticized, scientific research (including from ITB) has proven its effectiveness as a complement to modern medicine. For safety, consultation with a medical professional before long-term use is highly recommended.
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