Evidence supporting the use of: Jalapa (unspecified)
For the health condition: Parasites (nematodes, worms)
Synopsis
Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2
Jalapa, commonly referring to Ipomoea purga (also known as the purgative jalap root), has a long-standing history in traditional herbal medicine, particularly in Central America and Mexico. Historically, the dried tuberous root was used as a strong purgative or laxative. Because many intestinal parasites, such as nematodes and worms, inhabit the gut, traditional medical systems sometimes used jalapa to "purge" or expel these organisms from the body by inducing diarrhea. This practice is documented in 16th and 17th century European herbals and in indigenous Mexican folk medicine, where jalapa was valued for its cathartic properties.
However, while there is ample historical evidence of its use as a purgative (and thus, indirectly, against intestinal worms), there is little modern scientific research specifically validating its efficacy or safety as an anthelmintic (anti-parasitic) agent. Most references to its anti-parasitic effects are anecdotal or based on its laxative action, not on direct anti-parasitic activity. Moreover, due to its potency and potential toxicity, jalapa is rarely used in modern herbal or pharmaceutical medicine for this purpose.
In summary, jalapa’s use against parasites is rooted in traditional practices focused on its purgative effect, rather than on proven anthelmintic properties. There is a lack of modern scientific validation for its efficacy or safety specifically as a treatment for nematodes or worms.
More about Jalapa (unspecified)
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