NAME: Evolvulus alsinoides
FAMILY: Convolvulaceae (Morning Glory family)
COMMON NAMES: Dwarf Morning Glory, Slender Dwarf Morning Glory, Blueweed
LOCAL NAMES: N/A
MORPHOLOGICAL DESCRIPTION: Evolvulus alsinoides is a small perennial herb that typically grows up to 30 centimeters in height. It has slender, trailing or creeping stems with small, oval-shaped leaves that are arranged alternately along the stem. The leaves are typically green but may have a grayish tint. The flowers of Evolvulus alsinoides are striking, trumpet-shaped, and usually blue in color, though they can also be white or pink. The plant produces numerous flowers that bloom in clusters at the end of the stems.
USEFUL PART(s): The aerial parts of Evolvulus alsinoides, including the leaves and stems, are commonly used in traditional medicine.
GENERAL USES: Evolvulus alsinoides has a long history of use in traditional medicine systems, particularly in Ayurveda and traditional Chinese medicine. Various parts of the plant, such as the leaves, stems, and roots, are used to prepare herbal remedies for conditions such as fever, respiratory disorders, digestive issues, and mental disorders. It is also known for its potential antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and neuroprotective properties.
GEOGRAPHIC DISTRIBUTION: Evolvulus alsinoides is native to tropical and subtropical regions and is found in many parts of the world, including Asia, Africa, Australia, and the Americas. It is commonly found in open grasslands, sandy soils, and disturbed areas.
WHY IS IT GREEN? Like all plants, Evolvulus alsinoides appears green due to the presence of chlorophyll. Chlorophyll is a pigment that captures light energy from the sun and converts it into chemical energy through photosynthesis. The green color is a result of chlorophyll molecules absorbing light in the blue and red parts of the spectrum and reflecting green light.
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT: Evolvulus alsinoides is not known to have significant negative environmental impacts. As a native plant in many regions, it likely plays a role in local ecosystems by providing habitat and food for various organisms.
FUN FACT: In some cultures, Evolvulus alsinoides is believed to possess magical or spiritual properties. It is sometimes associated with love, luck, and protection against evil spirits.
Further Reading:
"Phytochemical and pharmacological investigations on Evolvulus alsinoides Linn." by V. Manjula, S. Gayathri Devi, and N. B. V. Chalapathi Rao
"A Review on Phytochemical and Pharmacological Activities of Evolvulus alsinoides" by Sushma Singh, Mohit Kumar Singh, and Rajani Chauhan
"Medicinal Plants of the World: Volume 3 - Chemical Constituents, Traditional and Modern Medicinal Uses" by Ivan A. Ross