Morning glories (Ipomoea) are native to Mexico and, in many herbal sources, lumped together. However, it’s worth the time and effort to unravel the specific uses. Today’s post focuses on jalapas.
Ipomoea purga
Ipomoea purga, as the name implies, has been used as a purgative since before the conquest. In Náhuatl, this plant is known as tolómpatl or tlanoquiloni. In Totonaco, it is called Suyu’. The Spanish gave this plant the names mechoacán, from the state Michoacan, and jalapa (xalapa) after the city in Veracruz where these plants grow in abundance.
The root, raíz de jalapa, can be either laxative or purgative, depending on the dosage. High dosages of the root can be toxic. To treat diarrhea with stomach cramps, a spoonful of the chopped root is simmered in a cupful of water. As a purgative for intestinal parasites, a teaspoon of fresh or dried powdered roots is added to a cup of water and drunk on an empty stomach.
Constipation is treated with a cup of water and five grams of powdered root every morning until the person has regular bowel movements. As an appetite suppressant, three grams of the powdered root is ingested in a cup of water one hour before each meal.
In addition to being a powerful purgative, studies have shown that Ipomoea purga demonstrates cytotoxic and antiproliferative activity, making it a potential compound in the treatment of cancer.
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Interested in natural remedies? Uncover herbal remedies from traditional Mexican sources for healing and wellness in the Exploring Traditional Herbal Remedies in Mexico series.
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