Tricolor Morning Glory
Tricolor Morning Glory (Tricolor Convolvulus, scientifically Ipomoea tricolor) is a fast-growing, perennial climbing plant from the family Convolvulaceae. Originally native to Central America, it is cultivated in many gardens worldwide because of its striking tricolor flowers. The characteristic flowers display a combination of blue, white, and pink or purple and make the plant a popular ornamental. Ecologically, Tricolor Morning Glory contributes to supporting pollinators such as bees and butterflies by providing nectar. Due to its rapid growth and dense foliage development, it is also used for ground cover and erosion control.
What benefits does Tricolor Morning Glory offer for health?
Traditionally, parts of Tricolor Morning Glory have been used in the folk medicine of various cultures; however, scientific research on its health benefits is limited, so that considerably more research is necessary before well-founded statements about its effects can be made.
- Potential antimicrobial effect: Initial studies point to an inhibition of certain bacteria and fungi (1).
- Sedative and calming effects: Extracts from the seeds are used in traditional medicine as a mild sedative and are said to possess anxiety-relieving properties (1, 2).
How does Tricolor Morning Glory work in the body?
Tricolor Morning Glory presumably contains a number of bioactive constituents, in particular alkaloids, flavonoids, and phenols, like other members of its plant genus. However, the exact molecular mode of action has not yet been comprehensively researched.
Are there risks or side effects?
- Toxicity: Some parts of Tricolor Morning Glory, especially the seeds, contain toxic compounds and should not be taken without professional guidance.
- Allergic reactions: Skin contact can lead to irritation in sensitive individuals.
- Lack of clinical studies: Comprehensive studies on safety and efficacy in humans are still lacking.
Conclusion
Tricolor Morning Glory is an attractive ornamental plant with some traditional uses and initial indications of health-promoting effects. Due to potential toxicity and the lack of clinical studies, however, its use as a medicinal plant should be viewed with caution. Further research is necessary so that therapeutic potentials and risks can be clearly
Sources:
Lawson, S., Davis, M., Brazell, C., & Sims, C. (2017). Chloroform extracts of Ipomoea alba and Ipomoea tricolor seeds show strong in-vitro antibacterial, antifungal, and cytotoxic activity. [Journal title], pages 730–734.