The Makiling Botanic Gardens (MBG) has selected Kaikai (Adiantum philippense L.) from the family Pteridaceae as the Plant of the Month (POM) for February 2025. This small terrestrial or epilithic fern features short, erect rhizomes and thrives in sheltered slopes at low elevations.
Kaikai’s stipes (stems) are slender, glabrous, and dark brown, while its simple pinnate fronds are alternately arranged and oblique in shape.
Beyond its ecological significance, Kaikai has various medicinal applications. Its fronds are used as a decoction or syrup to treat stomach aches, colic, dysentery, and as a uterine tonic post-childbirth. Women with irregular menstruation also use it for relief. A poultice made from pounded leaves helps reduce swelling, while its roots and rhizomes are used to treat strangury, fevers related to elephantiasis, febrile conditions in children, cough, leprosy, and hair loss.
For more information, you may view this video link: https://youtu.be/kWSoVboGDII
By: AALimpiada and ACMalayba