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School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia

Pokok Ekor Naga


  • Scientific name:

    Epipremnum pinnatum

  • Other names:

    Devil's Ivy, Golden Pothos, Satin Pothos


Epipremnum pinnatum, commonly known as Devil's Ivy, Golden Pothos, or Satin Pothos, is a popular ornamental plant. While it is primarily grown as a decorative houseplant, it also has some traditional medicinal uses in certain cultures. Although Epipremnum pinnatum is not as extensively studied for its medicinal properties as some other plants, here are some of its reported traditional medicinal uses:

  1. Anti-inflammatory Effects:
  • Epipremnum pinnatum is traditionally used for its anti-inflammatory properties. In some cultures, the plant is believed to help reduce swelling and inflammation, particularly when applied topically. Its leaves are sometimes used in poultices to relieve symptoms of inflammation, such as those seen in conditions like arthritis or muscle soreness.
  1. Wound Healing:
  • The leaves of Epipremnum pinnatum are sometimes used to treat cuts, bruises, and other minor skin injuries. The leaves are crushed and applied as a poultice to the affected area, where they are believed to help speed up the healing process by reducing inflammation and preventing infection.
  1. Treatment for Headaches:
  • Some traditional uses of Epipremnum pinnatum involve its application for relieving headaches. The plant is believed to have a calming effect that can help ease tension and reduce pain when used as a compress or poultice on the forehead or temples.
  1. Anti-bacterial and Anti-fungal:
  • Epipremnum pinnatum is thought to have mild antibacterial and antifungal properties. Extracts of the plant are sometimes used in traditional medicine to help prevent infections, particularly in wounds or skin conditions caused by bacteria or fungi.
  1. Blood Purification:
  • In some traditional practices, Epipremnum pinnatum is used as a blood purifier. The plant is believed to have detoxifying effects that help cleanse the blood and eliminate toxins from the body, improving overall health.
  1. Respiratory Health:
  • Some cultures use Epipremnum pinnatum for its purported benefits in treating respiratory issues. The plant is sometimes used as a remedy for coughs, colds, and other minor respiratory conditions, as it is thought to have soothing properties for the throat and lungs.
  1. Promoting Digestion:
  • Epipremnum pinnatum is sometimes used to support digestion. Its leaves are believed to have mild digestive benefits, such as easing stomach discomfort, bloating, and indigestion. The plant may stimulate the digestive system and improve metabolism.
  1. Antioxidant Effects:
  • The plant is thought to have antioxidant properties due to the presence of certain compounds that may help combat oxidative stress in the body. Antioxidants help reduce the damage caused by free radicals and may contribute to reducing the risk of chronic diseases.
  1. Treatment for Poisoning:
  • Some folk remedies use Epipremnum pinnatum as a natural remedy for mild poisoning or as a detoxifying agent. However, caution should be exercised, as this use is not widely supported by modern scientific studies.

It is essential to consult a healthcare professional before using Epipremnum pinnatum for medicinal purposes.