Contents:
Common Names | Parts Usually Used | Plant(s) & Culture | Where Found | Medicinal Properties | Biochemical Information
Uses | Formulas or Dosages | Warning | Bibliography
Scientific Names
- Ipomoea jalapa L.
- Convolvulaceae
- Morning-glory family
Common Names
- Morning Glory seeds
Parts Usually Used
Root
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Description of Plant(s) and Culture
Jalap is an annual, herbaceous vine; the tuberous root produces several brownish, twining stems which bear petioled, cordate leaves with a soft point. The purple flowers have a long, funnel-shaped corolla.
Other varieties: Wild jalap (I. pandurata) used as purgative like I. jalapa.
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Where Found
Found in one area of Mexico near Xalapa.
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Medicinal Properties
Cathartic, narcotic, emetic in large doses, vermifuge
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Biochemical Information
Pharbitin, rhamnose, angelic acid, pelargonic and cyanin
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Uses
Jalap is used as a purgative for constipation and for complete and rapid emptying of the bowels. It should not be used when intestinal irritation is present.
Also may be used for intestinal parasites.
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Formulas or Dosages
Decoction: use 1 tsp. root with 1 cup water. Take 1 cup a day, a mouthful at a time.
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Warning
An overdose can cause serious internal effects as well as purging and vomiting.
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Bibliography
The Herb Book
Eastern/Central Medicinal Plants
Planetary Herbology
American Folk Medicine
Webster’s New World Dictionary
An Instant Guide to Medicinal Plants
