- Region
- North America
- Origin
- South-eastern United States, Mexico and Central America; the related Gelsemium elegans in southern China and South-East Asia. Gelsemium sempervirens
- Traditions
- Western herbal medicine, Eclectic medicine
North America · Herb · № 182
Gelsemium sempervirens
Herb · North America
Yellow jessamine (gelsemium)
Gelsemium sempervirens
Contains alkaloids such as gelsemine that act on the nervous system. In the 19th century it was used for nerve pain, migraine and fever, but its toxicity makes any use dangerous. Homeopathic gelsemium is so diluted that it contains no active substance.
Safety notes
Extremely toxic: even small amounts can cause muscle weakness, respiratory paralysis and death. Nectar and honey may also be poisonous. Do not confuse with true jasmine. Never self-medicate; seek emergency help immediately if swallowed.
Cautions by tradition (1)
- Herbal medicine worldwide: Restricted in some countries, overdose causes nausea and double vision.
Preparation
No preparation for home use. No dosage is given here.
Use in traditions
American Eclectic physicians prescribed the root in the 19th century, and dosing errors led to poisonings. It is the state flower of South Carolina. In China the related Gelsemium elegans is known as 'heartbreak grass' and is a notorious poison.
Applications
Use by tradition
How different herbal traditions describe this herb. Amounts are traditional guidelines checked for obvious errors; they are not medical advice. For poisonous plants no dosage is given on purpose.
Herbal medicine worldwide
Attributed effects
Pain-relieving, calming, lowers blood pressure, relieves nerve pain.
Preparation and amount
Root.
Caution: Restricted in some countries, overdose causes nausea and double vision.