Jalap Root (Conqueror Root, High John Root, Ipomea, Turpeth)

Basic Information

Biological name (genus and species):
Exagonium purga
Parts used for medicinal purposes:
Roots
Chemicals this herb contains:
Convolvulin
Gum (See Glossary)
Jalapin
Jalapinolic acid
Starch
Sugar
Volatile oils (See Glossary)

KNOWN EFFECTS

Irritates the gastrointestinal system.

UNPROVED SPECULATED BENEFITS

Treats constipation.

WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS

Don't take if you:
Are pregnant, think you may be pregnant or plan pregnancy in the near future. Have any chronic disease of the gastrointestinal tract, such as stomach or duodenal ulcers, esophageal reflux (reflux esophagitis), ulcerative colitis, spastic colitis, diverticulosis, diverticulitis.

Consult your doctor if you:
Take this herb for any medical problem that doesn't improve in 2 weeks. There may be safer, more-effective treatments. Take any medicinal drugs or herbs including aspirin, laxatives, cold and cough remedies, antacids, vitamins, minerals, amino acids, supplements, other prescription or non-prescription drugs.

Pregnancy:
Dangers outweigh any possible benefits. Don't use.

Breast-feeding:
Dangers outweigh any possible benefits. Don't use.

Infants and children:
Treating infants and children under 2 with any herbal preparation is hazardous.

Others:
None expected if you are under 45, not pregnant, basically healthy, take it for only a short time and do not exceed manufacturer's recommended dosage.

Storage:
Keep cool and dry, but don't freeze. Store safely away from children.

Safe dosage:
At present no "safe" dosage has been established.

TOXICITY

Comparative-toxicity rating not available from standard
references.
For symptoms of toxicity: See Adverse Reactions, Side Effects or Overdose Symptoms section below.

ADVERSE REACTIONS, SIDE EFFECTS OR OVERDOSE SYMPTOMS

Explosive, watery diarrhea, Discontinue. Call doctor
with possible fluid and immediately.
electrolyte depletion leading
to weakness and possible
heartbeat irregularities.