Herb: Jalap


Latin name: Ipomoea jalapa


Synonyms: Ipomoea purga


Family: Convolvulaceae (Morning-glory Family)



Medicinal use of Jalap:

The tuber is a resinous acrid herb with an unpleasant taste that is often used as a purgative. It is taken internally in the treatment of constipation, colic and intestinal parasites. The root is harvested in the autumn and dried for later use.

Description of the plant:



Plant:
Evergreen
Climber

Height:
3 m
(9 3/4 foot)

Habitat of the herb:

Woodland on the eastern slopes of the Mexican Andes.

Propagation of Jalap:

Seed - sow spring in a greenhouse. Semi-ripe cuttings in the summer.

Cultivation of the herb:

Woodland on the eastern slopes of the Mexican Andes.

Known hazards of Ipomoea jalapa:

None known

Plant information taken from the Plants For A Future.