Ipomoea cairica seed

This species of morning glory, is a evergreen, herbaceous, perennial creeper with delicate and beautiful purple flowers that are 5-8cm in size. It can also have pink or whitish pink flowers. They don’t call it a Morning Glory for nothing!
This species can be identified by its attractive leaves which are hairless to 9cm long with 5-7 lobes, middle lobe being the largest. The slender stems are also hairless (i.e. glabrous), grow in a twining habit, and sometimes produce roots at the joints (i.e. nodes), allowing it to grow on just about anything. Fibers from the stems are made into sponges in some cultures. It can rapidly attain a height of 8-10ft, and in some parts of the world it can become invasive.

It does have some useful medicinal properties and usages. The seeds of the plant are considered purgative and are commonly used as a substitute for those of Ipomoea nil that are sold commercially for this purpose. Apart from the seeds, the crushed leaves of the plant are also reported to be applied externally for getting relief from body rashes and infections. Some caution should be employed when using this plant for food, since some reports say that it contains hydrogen cyanide. In small quantities, hydrogen cyanide has been shown to stimulate respiration and improve digestion, it is also claimed to be of benefit in the treatment of cancer. In excess, however, it can cause respiratory failure and even death. This of course, is for information purposes only and you should consult a professional if considering its usage.

Ipomoea Palmata
Ipomoea cairica, Cairo Morning Glory, Railway Creeper, ,
mile-a-minute, Messina Creeper