Argyreia cuneata explained

Argyreia cuneata is a perennial climbing shrub which is native to the Indian subcontinent and is related to Argyreia nervosa.

Common names include purple morning glory, mahalungi, and kallana gida.

Description

Argyreia cuneata is a perennial climbing shrub growing from 150–200 cm. Its stems are covered with soft white hair. The leaves are about 6 centimeters long by 2.5 wide with wedge-shaped bases. The flowers are purple and about 5 cm long. The seeds are brown, about 1 cm long, and elliptically shaped.

Toxicity

Like those of Argyreia nervosa, the seeds of A. cuneata contain various ergoline alkaloids such as chanoclavines and lysergic acid amides.[1] [2]

Medicinal uses

The leaves are traditionally used for treatment of diabetes.[3]

Notes and References

  1. Book: The Encyclopedia of Psychoactive Plants: Ethnopharmacology and Its Applications. 2008. Christian Rätsch.
  2. Book: HYLIN, John W. & Donald P. WATSON "Ergoline Alkaloids in Tropical Wood Roses" Science 184:. 499–500.
  3. Book: Hager Handbuch der Pharmazeutischen Praxis, Band 2, 159-160.