Origin

Native of West Indies; commonly grown in Indian gardens.

Action:

Cytotoxic.

Toxicity:

Cytotoxic.

-------------

Origin

Jamaica

Folk medicinal uses

This plant enjoys a widespread reputation in the treatment of diabetes. It is so used in Jamaica, the Grenadines, and in Africa. Watt and Breyer-Brandwijk consider that most investigations of this claim have shown negative results and that any advantage obtained can be ascribed to a weak digitalis and purgative action. The plant is said to contain an alkaloid vincarosin which is a cardiac poison. In Jamaica it is also used as tea for colds. The white variety is used for high blood pressure. (2, 10, 13, 26, 27).

Toxicity:

The plant is said to contain an alkaloid vincarosin which is a cardiac poison

1) Khare, C.P./ Indian Medicinal Plants. -- Nueva Dheli: Springer, 2007 . - p 704.

2) Asprey, G.F.; Phyllis Thornton/ Medicinal plants of Jamaica. Parts I & II. – p. 5.