Does morning glory have medicinal properties?

Answered by Douglas Hiatt

Morning glory, scientifically known as Ipomoea, is a plant that has been traditionally used for its medicinal properties. It is believed to possess a range of pharmacological actions, making it a versatile herb in traditional medicine practices.

One of the well-known properties of morning glory is its diuretic action. This means that it helps to increase urine production, aiding in the elimination of excess fluids and waste products from the body. This property can be beneficial for individuals with conditions such as edema or high blood pressure.

Additionally, morning glory is considered to have anthelmintic properties, meaning it may help to expel parasitic worms from the body. This is particularly relevant in traditional medicine practices where the plant is used to treat gastrointestinal infections caused by worms.

Blood purification is another attributed property of morning glory. It is believed to help cleanse the blood by removing toxins and impurities, which can have a positive impact on overall health and well-being.

Morning glory is also considered to have deobstruent actions. Deobstruents are substances that help to remove obstructions or blockages in the body. In traditional medicine, morning glory has been used to alleviate symptoms of abdominal diseases and promote proper digestion.

Laxative properties have also been associated with morning glory. It is believed to have a mild laxative effect, which can help to relieve constipation and promote regular bowel movements.

As a carminative, morning glory is thought to alleviate symptoms of gas and bloating by promoting the expulsion of gas from the digestive system. This can provide relief for individuals experiencing discomfort or digestive disturbances.

Furthermore, morning glory is believed to possess anti-inflammatory actions. Inflammation is a common underlying factor in many diseases, and the plant’s anti-inflammatory properties may help to reduce inflammation and associated symptoms.

It is worth noting that while morning glory has a long history of traditional use and anecdotal evidence supporting its medicinal properties, scientific research on its efficacy and safety is limited. Therefore, it is important to exercise caution and consult with a healthcare professional before using morning glory or any herbal remedy for medicinal purposes.

Morning glory has been attributed with various medicinal properties in traditional medicine practices. These include diuretic, anthelmintic, blood purifying, deobstruent, laxative, carminative, and anti-inflammatory actions. However, it is important to approach the use of morning glory or any herbal remedy with caution and seek guidance from a healthcare professional.