A hairy vine that grows to 10 feet, with a strong and somewhat offensive odor. The leaves are dark green with three lobes, and a flower that when closed is pale pink, and when open, is speckled with brown and mauve. It is often described as having a heart or duck shape.
It's also known as duck flower, Alcatraz, and hierba del indio.
WHERE IT CAN BE FOUND:
Mexico, Central America, South America, Caribbean
PROPERTIES AND USE:
Hypotensive, emmenagogue, antiparasitic, abortifacient, antivenomous. Treats hangovers, flu, colds, constipation, stomachache, indigestion, gas, gastritis, sinusitis, muscle pain.
TRADITIONAL PREPARATION:
For muscle pain, use an elastic bandage to apply the leaves directly to the affected area overnight. For sinusitis, soak a 6-inch piece of vine in 1 quart water in the sun all day. Sip over a 12-hour period. You can repeat this for a second day, if necessary. For snakebites, chew the leaves, and pack into the fang marks. For all other ailments, boil a handful of chopped vine in 3 cups water for 10 minutes. Strain, and drink warm before meals.
