Jatropha integerrima Jacq.
Vernacular name: Peregrina
Species Name: Jatropha integerrima Jacq.
Family: Euphorbiaceae
Habit: Shrub
Stem: Branches green-brown with prominent lenticels.
Leaf: Alternate, stipulate, panduriform or fiddle-shaped, cordate at base, smooth, dark green above, pale or purplish tinged below.
Flowering: September-December
Flowers: Terminal corymbose cyme inflorescence, bisexual or unisexual flowers, pink, imbricate corolla,
Fruit: 3 seeded capsule
Uses:
- All parts of this plant are toxic if ingested and can cause diarrhea, vomiting and burning throat.
- Milky sap may cause skin irritation and rashes from contact.
- Seeds are toxic.
- Smoke from burning plant is toxic.
- The plant is being researched as bio-fuel.
- Due to its continuous blooming, plant is planted as hedges, decorative borders and privacy screens.
- Plant attracts a variety of pollinators.
- Leaves and bark extraction are used to treat rheumatism and arthritis.
- Plant extracts are applied to reduced swellings due to its anti-inflammation properties.
- In India, poultices of leaves are used to treat skin diseases like warts, eczema and itching.
- Latex extracts are applied to wounds to stop bleeding and prevent infections.
