Cardiospermum halicacabum (Welpenela; වැල්පෙනෙල)

Cardiospermum halicacabum, more commonly known as Welpenela in Sri Lanka and also known as the balloon plant or love in a puff around other tropical countries such as Africa and Australia is a weed that has many medicinal qualities. This is a perennial vine like plant which is quite common in the low country of Sri Lanka while it has been used as a medicinal plant for several centuries in various treatments for rheumatism, stiffness of limbs and even snakebites. Used as porridges and herbal teas there are many more qualities of Welpenela that we are learning about.

The seeds of the plant contain volatile oil that is used in preparing many medicines and dehydrated powders. They are used in even treating hernia. Welpenela is helpful in stimulating ones appetite, maintaining a youthful appearance and also enhancing hormonal activity. Results and research suggest that eating it regularly can prevent arthritis as well. Soaking the leaves and using the water to massage the face allows you to protect and brighten the skin whilst fighting against skin discolouration and acne as well. The juice of the vine plant is also used for menstrual disorders in women while it also is beneficial for urinary tract infections. The leaves and roots of the plant can be used as a cure for diarrhoea and haemorrhoids.

The juice of the vine plant is used for menstrual diseases in women. Beneficial for urinary tract infections. Makes it easier to urinate well. vinegar is good for root and leaf bladder infections. Causes hunger. This causes redness when applied to the skin. Causes vomiting. Has antiseptic properties. The leaves and roots of the vine are used for diarrhea. It is also good for hemorrhoids. Penel root medicine is used to treat rheumatism, gout, hemorrhoids and worms. The vine, which has many of these properties, has now become a rare plant. The vine can be identified as a medicinal plant that does a great service to the whole society.