(Linn.) Hallier f.Family: Convolvulaceae.
Habitat: Maharashtra, Gujarat, Uttar Pradesh, Orissa, Rajasthan.
Action: Seeds—sedative.
The seeds contain ergoline alkaloids. The alkaloids are reported to produce vasoconstrictor, uterotonic, neurohor- monic, sympathicolytic and sedative effects.Plants of Merremia sp. are twiners and are used as diuretic, deobstruent, antirheumatic and alterative; the root is used as a mouthwash; leaves are used for burns, scalds and sores. M. vitifo- lia (Burm. F.) Hallier f. exhibits potent diuretic and antiseptic activity in strangury and urethral discharges. (Most of the twiners are known as Prasaarini in Indian medicine and are specific for rheumatic affections.)
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