Largeroot Morning-glory
NameLargeroot Morning-glory
Scientific NameIpomoea pandurata
Common NamesLargeroot Morning-glory, Wild Potato Vine, Man-of-the-Earth, Wild Sweet Potato
Plant FamilyConvolvulaceae
Natural HabitatNative to eastern and central North America, it thrives in dry to moist open woods, fields, roadsides, and disturbed areas. It prefers full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil.
Parts Usedroot,leaf
Medicinal Actionsdiuretic,anti-inflammatory
Traditional UsesTraditionally, the large tuberous root was used by Native American tribes as a strong purgative and laxative for constipation. It was also employed as a diuretic for urinary issues and sometimes applied externally as a poultice for swellings and sores.
Active Constituentsresin glycosides, ipomoein
Preparation Methodsdecoction,powder,poultice
Contraindications & WarningsDue to its potent purgative effects, Largeroot Morning-glory should be used with extreme caution. It is contraindicated in pregnancy, lactation, and in individuals with intestinal obstruction, inflammatory bowel disease, or severe abdominal pain. Overdose can lead to severe gastrointestinal distress.
Cultivation NotesThis plant grows vigorously from a deep, large taproot and prefers full sun to partial shade in well-drained soil. It can be quite invasive in gardens due to its robust root system and self-seeding habit.
Raritycommon
Description
A perennial herbaceous vine characterized by its large, tuberous root system. It produces heart-shaped to fiddle-shaped leaves and showy, funnel-shaped flowers that are typically white or pale pink with a distinctive darker purple or magenta throat.
