Botanical Overview
Swallowwort (Tylophora indica) belongs to the Asclepiadaceae family. Limited but reliable traditional records indicate this plant has recognized medicinal applications in one or more healing traditions. This species belongs to the Asclepiadaceae family, a group of flowering plants.
Family Context
The Asclepiadaceae family is widely distributed. Notable medicinal members include:
- Milkweed — 27 documented uses
- Gymnema — 15 documented uses
- Indian Sarsaparilla — 15 documented uses
- Bai-Wei — 8 documented uses
Geographic Distribution
Swallowwort has been recorded in 10 countries and territories worldwide, including China, Guadeloupe, Indonesia, India, Sri Lanka, and others.
Traditional Uses
Swallowwort has been traditionally used for digestive health, respiratory conditions, and pain and inflammation, among other applications.
Digestive health.
- Diarrhea
- Dysentery
- Stomachic
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.
Respiratory conditions.
- Asthma
- Expectorant
- Bronchitis
Respiratory conditions are addressed through steam inhalation of the herb’s vapors or internal use as a warm tea. The hot infusion acts as an expectorant, helping to loosen phlegm and clear congestion. Some traditions combine it with honey for coughs.
Pain and inflammation.
- Anodyne
- Rheumatism
- Gout
For pain and inflammation, preparations are applied both topically as compresses and taken internally. A warm poultice draws blood to the area and promotes healing, while internal preparations address systemic inflammation.
Active Compounds
Phytochemical research has identified 2 compounds in this species: tylophorine, tylophorinidine.
The identified compounds include the following categories:
- Alkaloid: nitrogenous compounds with diverse pharmacological activities