False Jasmine, Yellow Jessamine, Evening Trumpetflower, Carolina Jasmine

Gelsemium sempervirens

Physical Characteristics

Gelsemium sempervirens is an evergreen Climber growing to 3 m (9ft 10in) at a fast rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 9. It is in leaf all year, in flower from May to July. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil.

Distribution

South-eastern N. America - Florida to Texas and north to Arkansas and S. Virginia.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Sunny Edge; Dappled Shade; South Wall. By. West Wall. By.

Edible Uses

None known

Medicinal Uses

Analgesic Antispasmodic Diaphoretic Febrifuge Homeopathy Hypnotic Mydriatic Nervine Sedative Vasodilator The roots are analgesic, antispasmodic, diaphoretic, febrifuge, hypnotic, mydriatic, nervine, sedative and vasodilator[46, 165, 192, 222, 238]. A powerful depressant of the central nervous system, deadening pain and reducing spasms[222]. It is said to suspend and hold in check muscular irritability and nervous excitement with more force and power than any known remedy. Whilst it relaxes the muscles, it also relieves all sense of pain[4]. It is used internally in the treatment of neuralgia, migraine, sciatica, toothache, severe pain (especially in terminal illnesses or accidents) and meningitis[238]. Externally it has been used as a folk remedy for cancer[222]. The root is best harvested in the autumn and dried carefully for later use[4]. Extreme care is advised with the use of this plant, it should only be used under the supervision of a qualified practitioner[238]. Excessive doses cause respiratory depression, giddiness, double vision and death[238]. It should not be prescribed for patients with heart disease, hypotension or myasthenia gravis[238]. See also the notes above on toxicity. The fresh root is used to make a homeopathic remedy[232]. It is used in the treatment of a variety of complaints, including fevers, flu and headaches[232].

Known Hazards

All parts of the plant usually contain toxic alkaloids[200]. Eating just one flower has reportedly been lethal to children[207, 222]. The plant can also cause skin allergies in some people and it is possible that the plant toxins can be absorbed through the skin, especially if there are cuts[238].