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Herbal Medicine of the American Southwest New Title - Soon to be Released Medicinal Plant Profiles Photographic Index |
Leadwort
Plumbago scandens Pitillo, Hierba de alacran
Description This perennial is often found prostrated along the ground or weakly growing up through bushes that it is sheltered under. The leaves form alternately along the stems; they are entire with wavy margins. The flowers cluster in spike-like racemes at branch ends; they are white, tubular, and have 5 petals. The small seed capsules have numerous thickened hairs on their surfaces. They easily stick to clothes and animal fur, making transport easy. Plumbago capensis, which is cultivated as an ornamental in warmer parts of the country, has sky-blue flowers; it can serve as a substitute for our own native variety.
Distribution In southern Arizona Leadwort is mainly isolated to Pima and Pinal Counties. It is also found in southern Florida. Between 2,500-4,000 feet look for the plant in ravines, canyons, and gullies where rain run-off frequently courses by. Ideally, Leadwort grows under larger shrubs and trees where it gains some protection from intense sunlight. Look under Acacia, Mesquite, and Hackberry trees. The plant does not have a wide range but it is locally abundant, robust, and is easily propagated.
Chemistry
Medicinal Uses There are numerous species of Leadwort currently used in TCM (Traditional Chinese Medicine) and Ayurveda; also throughout Tropical America, these plants are used medicinally. Although internal uses differ to some degree according to what therapeutic system is used, external uses coincide and are practical and safe. Topical preparations stimulate tissue healing. The plant has a stimulatory effect on parenchymal and connective tissue cells, collagenation, and other factors, all augmenting the healing process. Tissue macrophage activity is also stimulated, which not only accounts for the plant’s indirect antimicrobial activity but also further complements its wound healing properties. Use Leadwort much like Copperleaf. Apply topically when wounds, ulcers, cuts, and abrasions have become subacute. In other words, use Leadwort when the inflammation has diminished somewhat and tissues are lax and slow to heal. Topically Leadwort also speeds the time it takes abscesses to come to a head and is of use in splinter removal.
Indications Wounds/ulcers/cuts, that are slow to heal (external) Edema, disorganized tissue fluid build-up with tissue laxity (external) Abscesses/splinters, to bring to a head (external)
Collection When sufficiently leafed-out, in flower or not, collect the herbage of the plant.
Preparations and Dosage Dried leaf poultice/fomentation/salve/oil: topically as needed
Cautions Since Leadwort is a cellular stimulant there is a slight possibility of external preparations causing redness and inflammation. Discontinue use if this occurs. |