Botanical Overview
Snakeplant (Rivea corymbosa) belongs to the Convolvulaceae family. Limited but reliable traditional records indicate this plant has recognized medicinal applications in one or more healing traditions. This species belongs to the Convolvulaceae family, a group of flowering plants.
Family Context
The Convolvulaceae family is widely distributed. Notable medicinal members include:
- Sweet Potato — 22 documented uses
- Elephant Creeper — 16 documented uses
- Swamp Cabbage — 11 documented uses
- Jalap — 5 documented uses
Geographic Distribution
Snakeplant has been recorded in 8 countries and territories worldwide, including Brazil, Cuba, Dominican Republic, Honduras, Mexico, and others.
Traditional Uses
Snakeplant has been traditionally used for digestive health, skin and wound care, and urinary tract health, among other applications.
Digestive health.
- Carminative
For digestive complaints, the herb is typically prepared as a tea or decoction taken before meals. The bitter compounds stimulate digestive secretions and improve nutrient absorption. Some traditions use the powdered root or leaves in small doses as a stomachic tonic.
Skin and wound care.
- Sore
For skin conditions, the fresh or dried plant is applied topically as a poultice, wash, or compress. A strong decoction can be used to clean wounds and sores. The antimicrobial properties help prevent infection while promoting tissue repair.
Urinary tract health.
- Diuretic
Urinary tract applications typically involve drinking the herb as a mild tea, which increases urine production and helps flush the urinary system. It may be combined with other demulcent herbs to soothe irritated tissues.
Active Compounds
Phytochemical research has identified 13 compounds in this species, including a diverse array of phytochemical classes (see the Complete Chemical Inventory below for the full list).
The identified compounds include the following categories:
- Alkaloid: nitrogenous compounds with diverse pharmacological activities