ipomoea pes-caprae

Ipomoea pes-caprae is a prostrate perennial plant widely distributed on tropical and subtropical coasts worldwide. It is commonly known as goat's foot or beach morning glory. The plant has a long history of use in traditional medicine across Asia, Africa, Australia, and the Americas. Medicinally, various parts of the plant are used for their anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic, analgesic (pain-relieving), diuretic (promoting urine production), antiplatelet aggregation (preventing blood clots), antioxidant, immunostimulatory and antimicrobial properties[1][3][4][6][8]. Extracts from the leaves are applied topically to treat stings from jellyfish and other marine animals[2][3], as well as wounds and skin infections. Decoctions or infusions made from roots or leaves are used internally for conditions such as rheumatism, arthritis[7], gastrointestinal disorders including constipation and colic[1][6], bladder problems[1], hypertension[8], fever[6], pain relief (antinociceptive)[4] and menorrhagia (heavy menstrual bleeding)[1]. Phytochemical studies have identified active compounds such as alkaloids, glycosides (including pescaproside A), steroids/terpenoids like betulinic acid and amyrin acetate; flavonoids like isoquercitrin; phenolic compounds including eugenol; among others that contribute to its pharmacological effects—particularly inhibition of prostaglandin synthesis for anti-inflammatory action[1][4]. Some extracts show weak cytotoxic activity against cancer cell lines but clinical relevance remains unproven at this time.

Other names

goat's footbeach morning gloryrailroad vinebayhopsbatatilla