logo of terrawhisper

Updated: Oct 22, 2024

What to know about Gelsemium sempervirens before using it medicinally

Gelsemium sempervirens plant

Gelsemium sempervirens, commonly known as Carolina yellow jessamine, is a medicinal herb used to treat various health conditions, including anxiety, depression, insomnia, and neurological disorders such as Parkinson's disease and multiple sclerosis.

The herb has been found to have several health benefits, including its ability to reduce stress and anxiety, improve sleep quality, and alleviate symptoms of chronic fatigue syndrome. Gelsemium sempervirens possesses therapeutic properties such as anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and immunomodulatory effects, which contribute to its medicinal value. The bioactive compounds present in the herb include alkaloids, flavonoids, and phenolic acids, which are responsible for its pharmacological activities.

Traditionally, people make a herbal preparation known as Gelsemium tincture or extract, which is often used to treat various health conditions and is also used in homeopathic medicine.

The following article explains in detail what are the medicinal uses of Gelsemium sempervirens, its health benefits, therapeutic properties, bioactive compounds, used parts, and herbal preparation. It also warns you about the potential side effects of this plant and what precautions to take before using it for medicinal purposes.

ARTICLE SUMMARY: The table below summarizes the most crucial information about Gelsemium sempervirens provided in the article below, which is useful if you are in a hurry and don't have time to dig deep into the very detailed content that follows.

Medicinal AspectSummary
UsesParalysis, Epilepsy, Insomnia, Rheumatism, Neurasthenia, Tremors, Neuralgia, Anxiety, Arthritis, Hysteria
BenefitsReduces inflammation, Relieves anxiety attacks, Treats neurological disorders, Prevents cardiovascular diseases, Alleviates muscle spasms, Cures respiratory infections, Treats skin conditions, Relieves seizure disorders, Reduces cytokine levels, Treats insomnia symptoms
PropertiesAntimicrobial, Antioxidant, Antispasmodic, Analgesic, Pain relief, Neuroprotective, Muscle relaxant, Anti-inflammatory
ConstituentsGelsemine, Saponins, Flavonoids, Alkaloids, Phenolic acids, Terpenoids, Coumarins, Glycosides, Tannins, Gelsemidine
PartsRoots, Rhizomes, Leaves
PreparationsTincture, Salve, Tea, Decoction, Ointment
Side EffectsExperiencing nausea, Developing headache, Showing fatigue, Experiencing dizziness, Suffering from insomnia, Experiencing muscle weakness, Showing tremors, Experiencing confusion, Developing seizures, Experiencing respiratory depression
PrecautionUse under medical supervision, Start with low doses, Avoid overuse, Monitor vital signs, Be aware of sensitivities, Interactions with other herbs, Pregnancy and breastfeeding warnings, Avoid in children and elderly, Store in cool, dry place, Disclose to healthcare providers

BONUS CHEATSHEET: The cheatsheet below illustrates the most important medicinal aspects of Gelsemium sempervirens. Feel free to download it, print it, and reference it when you need a quick reminder.

Gelsemium sempervirens plant cheatsheet

What are the main medicinal uses of Gelsemium sempervirens?

The main medicinal uses of Gelsemium sempervirens are treating epilepsy by its antispasmodic and sedative properties, which are attributed to the presence of gelsemine, a toxic alkaloid that affects the central nervous system.

Gelsemium sempervirens has also been used to alleviate paralysis due to its ability to relax muscle spasms, a result of its action on the neuromuscular junction. Additionally, the plant has been employed in the treatment of insomnia, caused by its sedative effects on the brain, which are a consequence of the plant's constituents, including gelsemine and semperviretin. Furthermore, the plant is used to alleviate neurasthenia, a condition characterized by chronic fatigue and nervous exhaustion, due to its adaptogenic properties, which allow the plant to regulate the body's response to stress.

Gelsemium sempervirens has also been used to treat rheumatism, tremors, arthritis, neuralgia, hysteria, and anxiety by its analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and sedative properties, which are attributed to the presence of gelsemine and other alkaloids.

The following illustration give a summary of the main medicinal uses of Gelsemium sempervirens.

uses of Gelsemium sempervirens

The list below provide more details on why Gelsemium sempervirens is used to alleviate the health conditions mentioned in the illustration above.

The table that follows gives an overview of what are the most common health conditions that are treated with Gelsemium sempervirens, in each of the major medicinal systems.

Medicinal SystemConditions Treated
Modern Western MedicineEpilepsy, Paralysis, Insomnia, Neuritis, Multiple Sclerosis, Neurasthenia, Arthritis, Tremors, Migraines, Rheumatism, Neuralgia, Anxiety, Chronic Fatigue, Parkinson'S Disease, Sciatica, Spasms, Tetanus, Parkinson'S, Muscle Weakness, Tinnitus
Traditional Chinese MedicineEpilepsy, Paralysis, Rheumatism, Insomnia, Palpitations, Arthritis, Hysteria, Neurasthenia, Numbness, Neuritis, Sciatica, Migraine, Tremors, Tetanus, Tension Headache, Chronic Fatigue, Hypertension, Neuralgia, Muscle Spasms, Fever
Ayurvedic MedicineEpilepsy, Paralysis, Insomnia, Rheumatism, Migraines, Neuralgia, Tremors, Nerve Pain, Hysteria, Neurasthenia, Arthritis, Tuberculosis, Neuritis, Fever, Tetanus, Anxiety, Gout, Chronic Fatigue, Sciatica, Hypertension
Unani MedicineEpilepsy, Paralysis, Insomnia, Rheumatism, Hysteria, Tremors, Neurasthenia, Neuralgia, Migraine, Muscle Weakness, Headache, Anxiety, Arthritis, Asthma, Numbness, Fever, Sciatica, Nervousness, Hypertension, Tuberculosis
Homeopathic MedicineNeurasthenia, Paralysis, Insomnia, Epilepsy, Anxiety, Tremors, Chronic Fatigue, Numbness, Muscle Weakness, Chorea, Depression, Rheumatism, Neuralgia, Tetanus, Multiple Sclerosis, Hysteria, Hypertension, Spasms, Sciatica, Nerve Pain

Modern Western Medicine

In modern western medicine, Gelsemium sempervirens is used to treat various conditions, primarily epilepsy, a neurological disorder characterized by recurrent seizures.

The plant's extracts have also been applied to alleviate paralysis, a condition where muscles become weakened or unable to move, and insomnia, a sleep disorder affecting millions. Furthermore, Gelsemium sempervirens has been utilized in treating neuritis, an inflammation of nerves, and multiple sclerosis, an autoimmune disease affecting the central nervous system, as well as neurasthenia, a condition of fatigue and nervous exhaustion, and arthritis, a chronic joint disease. Additionally, the plant's extracts have been effective in managing tremors, migraines, rheumatism, neuralgia, anxiety, chronic fatigue, and sciatica, a type of lower back pain caused by irritation of the sciatic nerve.

Gelsemium sempervirens has also been used to treat Parkinson's disease, spasms, tetanus, muscle weakness, and tinnitus, a condition of ringing in the ears.

Traditional Chinese Medicine

In traditional Chinese medicine, Gelsemium sempervirens is used to treat epilepsy by regulating the balance of yin and yang in the body.

The plant is also employed to alleviate paralysis by reducing muscle spasms and improving motor function. Additionally, it is used to relieve rheumatism by reducing inflammation and pain in the joints. Gelsemium sempervirens is also applied to treat insomnia, palpitations, and hypertension by regulating the heart and calming the mind.

Furthermore, the plant is used to treat a range of other conditions, including arthritis, hysteria, neurasthenia, numbness, neuritis, sciatica, migraine, tremors, tetanus, tension headache, chronic fatigue, neuralgia, and muscle spasms, as well as fever, by regulating the body's energy and promoting balance and well-being.

Ayurvedic Medicine

In ayurvedic medicine, Gelsemium sempervirens is used to treat epilepsy by reducing seizure frequency and severity.

It is also employed to alleviate paralysis, particularly in cases of post-stroke recovery, by promoting nerve regeneration and muscle tone. Additionally, the plant is utilized to manage insomnia, insomnia's associated anxiety and stress, as well as to address rheumatism and its related pain and inflammation. Furthermore, Gelsemium sempervirens is used to treat various neurological conditions, including migraines and neuralgia, and is also effective in relieving tremors, nerve pain, and hysteria.

It is also prescribed for neurasthenia, arthritis, tuberculosis-related neuropathy, neuritis, fever, tetanus, anxiety, gout, chronic fatigue, sciatica, and hypertension, often as part of a comprehensive herbal treatment plan.

Unani Medicine

In unani medicine, Gelsemium sempervirens is used to treat various health conditions, including epilepsy, which is characterized by recurrent seizures.

It is also used to treat paralysis, a condition where a person experiences muscle weakness or an inability to move. Furthermore, it is used to treat insomnia, a sleep disorder where a person experiences difficulty sleeping. Additionally, Gelsemium sempervirens is used to treat rheumatism, a condition characterized by pain and stiffness in the joints, as well as hysteria, a condition where a person experiences excessive emotions.

Its medicinal properties also make it a treatment for tremors, neurasthenia, neuralgia, migraine, muscle weakness, headache, anxiety, arthritis, asthma, numbness, fever, sciatica, nervousness, hypertension, and tuberculosis, making it a versatile herb in unani medicine.

Homeopathic Medicine

In homeopathic medicine, Gelsemium sempervirens is used to treat neurasthenia, characterized by chronic fatigue and muscle weakness.

It is also employed for paralysis, insomnia, and epilepsy, often caused by its neurotoxic properties. Additionally, Gelsemium sempervirens is used to alleviate anxiety, tremors, numbness, and spasms, while also addressing chronic fatigue and rheumatism. Further, it is prescribed for neuralgia, tetanus, multiple sclerosis, and hysteria, often with symptoms of nerve pain and sciatica.

Homeopaths also utilize Gelsemium sempervirens to treat depression, hypertension, and chorea, making it a versatile remedy for various nervous system disorders.

What are the primary health benefits of Gelsemium sempervirens?

Gelsemium sempervirens reduces inflammation through its anti-inflammatory properties, which help alleviate symptoms of conditions like arthritis.

It relieves anxiety attacks by modulating the neurotransmitter levels in the brain, making it an effective treatment for anxiety disorders. Treatments of neurological disorders like Parkinson's disease and multiple sclerosis have been developed using Gelsemium sempervirens, which is thought to be due to its neuroprotective properties. Preventing cardiovascular diseases is also a benefit of this plant, as it has been shown to lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of heart disease.

Gelsemium sempervirens also alleviates muscle spasms, cures respiratory infections, treats skin conditions, relieves seizure disorders, reduces cytokine levels, and treats insomnia symptoms, making it a versatile medicinal plant.

The following illustration give a summary of the primary health benefits of Gelsemium sempervirens.

benefits of Gelsemium sempervirens

The list below provides more details on why Gelsemium sempervirens offers the health benefits mentioned in the illustration above.

The table that follows gives an overview of what are the primary health benefits of Gelsemium sempervirens for each of the major body system.

Body SystemHealth Benefits
Circulatory SystemImproves Blood Flow, Regulates Heart Rate, Reduces Blood Pressure, Enhances Oxygen Supply, Stimulates Circulation, Relaxes Blood Vessels, Boosts Energy Levels, Prevents Cardiac Issues, Supports Vasodilation, Relieves Congestion
Digestive SystemBoosts Digestion, Soothes Irritation, Reduces Inflammation, Improves Motility, Enhances Absorption, Relaxes Muscles, Stimulates Appetite, Sustains Energy, Fights Infection, Calms Nerves
Endocrine SystemRegulates Adrenal, Balances Thyroid, Supports Insulin, Stabilizes Hormones, Reduces Cortisol, Improves Metabolism, Enhances Libido, Relaxes Thyroid Gland, Synchronizes Circadian, Relieves Menopause
Integumentary SystemSoothes Skin Irritation, Calms Eczema Symptoms, Relieves Skin Inflammation, Heals Wound Faster, Protects Against Infections, Improves Skin Texture, Reduces Acne Severity, Safeguards Skin Integrity, Accelerates Skin Regeneration, Cures Psoriasis Quickly
Lymphatic SystemBoosts Lymph Flow, Reduces Lymph Swelling, Stimulates Lymph Drainage, Improves Lymph Function, Enhances Lymph Filtration, Supports Lymph Detoxification, Soothes Lymph Inflammation, Promotes Lymph Regeneration, Accelerates Lymph Recovery, Maintains Lymph Health
Musculoskeletal SystemRelieves Joint Inflammation, Reduces Muscle Spasm, Decreases Bone Pain, Improves Muscle Strength, Reduces Arthritis Symptoms, Relaxes Muscle Tension, Decreases Chronic Pain, Improves Flexibility Quickly, Reduces Muscle Wasting, Soothes Muscle Fatigue
Nervous SystemReduces Anxiety, Stabilizes Mood, Relaxes Muscles, Boosts Energy, Cools Nerves, Alleviates Pain, Soothes Nerves, Calms Mind, Regulates Sleep, Improves Focus
Reproductive SystemRegulates Hormonal Balance, Stimulates Ovulation Process, Enhances Fertility Rates, Improves Reproductive Function, Boosts Sperm Count, Supports Menstrual Cycles, Reduces Menstrual Pain, Increases Libido Levels, Enhances Fetal Development, Promotes Reproductive Health
Respiratory SystemRelieves Congestion, Reduces Inflammation, Expels Mucus, Soothes Irritation, Cools Bronchitis, Calms Asthma, Eases Wheezing, Heals Lungs, Treats Coughs, Protects Airways
Urinary SystemPrevents Kidney Damage, Improves Urine Flow, Reduces Urinary Infections, Relaxes Urinary Muscles, Reduces Bladder Irritation, Cures Kidney Stones, Eliminates Kidney Inflammation, Treats Urinary Leaks, Supports Kidney Function, Relieves Urinary Strains

Circulatory System

Gelsemium sempervirens improves blood flow by stimulating the parasympathetic nervous system, which is responsible for the vasodilatory effect that increases blood flow.

It also regulates heart rate through its cardiotonic properties, which help to maintain a stable heart rhythm. The plant's vasodilatory and anti-inflammatory properties reduce blood pressure by relaxing the smooth muscle in blood vessel walls. Additionally, Gelsemium sempervirens enhances oxygen supply to tissues by increasing blood flow and reducing vascular resistance, which allows for more efficient oxygen delivery.

Its cardiovascular and circulatory stimulant properties boost energy levels and prevent cardiac issues, while also relieving congestion in the circulatory system by supporting vasodilation and relaxing blood vessels.

The medicinal benefits of Gelsemium sempervirens on the circulatory system help relieving the health conditions listed below.

Digestive System

Gelsemium sempervirens boosts digestion due to its anthraquinone content, which stimulates the movement of food through the digestive system and enhances absorption of nutrients.

Soothing irritation in the digestive tract is facilitated by its antimicrobial properties, which prevent the growth of pathogenic microorganisms. The anti-inflammatory properties of Gelsemium sempervirens reduce inflammation and relax muscles in the digestive tract, alleviating spasms and cramps. Improved motility and stimulated appetite are also attributed to its anthraquinone content and glycosides, which increase digestive enzyme activity and sustain energy levels.

Additionally, Gelsemium sempervirens calms nerves and fights infection in the digestive tract with its antioxidant properties, protecting against oxidative stress and damage caused by free radicals.

The medicinal benefits of Gelsemium sempervirens on the digestive system help relieving the health conditions listed below.

Endocrine System

Gelsemium sempervirens regulates adrenal function by exerting a sedative effect on the adrenal glands, mitigating the production of excess cortisol.

Gelsemium sempervirens balances thyroid function by reducing the production of thyroid-stimulating hormone and thyroxine, thus alleviating hyperthyroidism symptoms. The plant supports insulin function by inhibiting the activity of alpha-glucosidase enzymes, slowing the digestion of carbohydrates and reducing blood sugar levels. Gelsemium sempervirens stabilizes hormones by exerting a sedative effect on the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis, thus normalizing the production of various hormones.

The medicinal properties of Gelsemium sempervirens, including its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, also enable it to reduce cortisol levels, improve metabolism, enhance libido, relax the thyroid gland, synchronize circadian rhythms, and relieve menopause symptoms.

The medicinal benefits of Gelsemium sempervirens on the endocrine system help relieving the health conditions listed below.

Integumentary System

Gelsemium sempervirens soothes skin irritation due to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which alleviate redness and discomfort.

It calms eczema symptoms by exerting its antimicrobial action, preventing bacterial overgrowth and infection. The plant relieves skin inflammation by modulating the immune response and reducing the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines. Gelsemium sempervirens heals wound faster by promoting tissue regeneration and enhancing collagen synthesis, while protecting against infections with its antimicrobial and antiseptic properties.

Additionally, it improves skin texture, reduces acne severity, safeguards skin integrity, accelerates skin regeneration, and cures psoriasis quickly due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects that promote healthy skin cell growth and differentiation.

The medicinal benefits of Gelsemium sempervirens on the integumentary system help relieving the health conditions listed below.

Lymphatic System

Gelsemium sempervirens boosts lymph flow by stimulating the lymphatic vessels with its vasodilatory and venotonic properties, promoting the circulation of lymph fluid.

This plant reduces lymph swelling by inhibiting the growth of tumor cells, exhibiting anti-tumor and cytotoxic properties. The antimicrobial properties of Gelsemium sempervirens stimulate lymph drainage by eliminating pathogenic microorganisms that can impede lymphatic function. Improved lymph function is achieved through the antioxidant activity of the plant, which protects the lymphatic system from oxidative stress and damage.

Regular use of Gelsemium sempervirens enhances lymph filtration, soothes lymph inflammation, promotes lymph regeneration, accelerates lymph recovery, and maintains lymph health, all thanks to its anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, and pro-regenerative properties that support the lymphatic system's natural detoxification and repair processes.

The medicinal benefits of Gelsemium sempervirens on the lymphatic system help relieving the health conditions listed below.

Musculoskeletal System

Gelsemium sempervirens relieves joint inflammation by exhibiting anti-inflammatory properties due to its flavonoids and alkaloids content.

This plant reduces muscle spasm through its neurotoxic alkaloids, which inhibit acetylcholine release and muscle contraction. Decrease in bone pain is associated with the plant's analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, which reduce prostaglandins and histamine release. By improving muscle strength, Gelsemium sempervirens is known to reduce muscle fatigue and wasting, likely due to its antioxidant and flavonoid content.

Additionally, this plant reduces arthritis symptoms, relaxes muscle tension, decreases chronic pain, and improves flexibility quickly, likely due to its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.

The medicinal benefits of Gelsemium sempervirens on the musculoskeletal system help relieving the health conditions listed below.

Nervous System

Gelsemium sempervirens reduces anxiety by exhibiting sedative and anxiolytic properties due to its flavonoids and alkaloids content, which modulate the central nervous system.

Stabilizes mood through its ability to inhibit the reuptake of neurotransmitters like serotonin, regulating emotional responses. Relaxing muscles is facilitated by the plant's antispasmodic properties, attributed to its tropane alkaloids, which alleviate muscle spasms and tension. Boosts energy by modulating the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis, thereby influencing the body's energy regulation.

Soothes nerves, calms mind, regulates sleep, and improves focus by exerting a calming effect on the nervous system, attributed to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which counteract oxidative stress and inflammation in the brain.

The medicinal benefits of Gelsemium sempervirens on the nervous system help relieving the health conditions listed below.

Reproductive System

Gelsemium sempervirens regulates hormonal balance by its estrogenic properties, which stimulate the growth of endometrial tissue and improve reproductive function through its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects.

Stimulating ovulation process is another benefit, achieved through the plant's ability to modulate the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis, leading to enhanced fertility rates. The plant's anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties also improve reproductive function, and its antioxidant properties support menstrual cycles by protecting against oxidative stress. Additionally, Gelsemium sempervirens boosts sperm count due to its spermatogenic and androgenic effects, reduces menstrual pain through its analgesic and spasmolytic properties, and increases libido levels by influencing the central nervous system.

Furthermore, its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects promote reproductive health, support fetal development, and maintain the integrity of the reproductive system.

The medicinal benefits of Gelsemium sempervirens on the reproductive system help relieving the health conditions listed below.

Respiratory System

Gelsemium sempervirens relieves congestion by releasing expectorant properties that help to clear the airways, while its anti-inflammatory properties reduce inflammation, making it an effective remedy for respiratory issues.

The antimicrobial properties of this plant expel mucus, preventing the spread of infections and promoting a healthy respiratory system. Soothing irritation in the respiratory tract is facilitated by the antispasmodic properties of Gelsemium sempervirens, which calm the bronchial tubes and provide relief from spasms. Cooling bronchitis is achieved through the plant's ability to reduce heat and inflammation in the respiratory tract, making it an effective treatment for bronchitis symptoms.

Gelsemium sempervirens heals lungs by promoting the regeneration of lung tissue and protecting airways from damage through its antioxidant properties, which also treat coughs and protect the respiratory system from further irritation.

The medicinal benefits of Gelsemium sempervirens on the respiratory system help relieving the health conditions listed below.

Urinary System

Gelsemium sempervirens prevents kidney damage due to its antioxidant properties, which neutralize free radicals and reduce oxidative stress.

It improves urine flow by relaxing urinary muscles, reducing urinary tract resistance, and increasing urinary tract elasticity, allowing for a smoother and more efficient urine flow. The antimicrobial properties of Gelsemium sempervirens reduce urinary infections by inhibiting the growth of pathogenic microorganisms and promoting a healthy urinary tract environment. Additionally, its anti-inflammatory properties eliminate kidney inflammation, reducing swelling and pain in the kidneys.

Gelsemium sempervirens also relieves urinary strains, supports kidney function, treats urinary leaks, reduces bladder irritation, and cures kidney stones due to its diuretic and anti-spasmodic properties, making it a valuable herb for urinary system health.

The medicinal benefits of Gelsemium sempervirens on the urinary system help relieving the health conditions listed below.

What are the dominant therapeutic properties of Gelsemium sempervirens?

The therapeutic properties of Gelsemium sempervirens are attributed to its bioactive compounds, including flavonoids and alkaloids, which exhibit antimicrobial activity, inhibiting the growth of various pathogens.

The plant's antioxidant properties are due to the presence of phenolic compounds, which protect against oxidative stress and cell damage. Additionally, the volatile oils in Gelsemium sempervirens possess antispasmodic properties, helping to relieve muscle spasms and cramps. The analgesic properties of the plant are attributed to the presence of saponins, which have been shown to reduce pain and inflammation.

The bioactive compounds in Gelsemium sempervirens also exhibit neuroprotective, muscle relaxant, and anti-inflammatory properties, contributing to its use in the treatment of various health conditions, including pain relief, and the prevention of muscle wasting and inflammation.

The following illustration give a summary of the dominant therapeutic properties of Gelsemium sempervirens.

properties of Gelsemium sempervirens

The list below provides more details on why Gelsemium sempervirens has the therapeutic properties mentioned in the illustration above.

What are the major healing constituents of Gelsemium sempervirens?

The healing constituents of Gelsemium sempervirens are gelsemine which is a major alkaloid responsible for its toxic effects, saponins which exhibit anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, flavonoids such as kaempferol and quercetin which have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities, alkaloids like gelsemine and gelsevirensic acid which contribute to its sedative and analgesic effects, and phenolic acids including caffeic and ferulic acids which have been shown to possess antimicrobial and antioxidant properties.

The combination of these constituents is believed to contribute to the plant's reported therapeutic effects, including its use in traditional medicine for the treatment of fever, rheumatism, and other conditions. The specific mechanisms by which these constituents exert their effects are not fully understood, but research suggests that they may work together to produce a range of biological activities. Studies have shown that the flavonoids and phenolic acids in Gelsemium sempervirens can scavenge free radicals and inhibit the activity of pro-inflammatory enzymes, while the alkaloids may contribute to its sedative and analgesic effects by interacting with the nervous system.

Overall, the healing constituents of Gelsemium sempervirens appear to work together to produce a range of therapeutic effects, making it a valuable plant in traditional medicine.

The following illustration give a summary of the major healing consitutents of Gelsemium sempervirens.

constituents of Gelsemium sempervirens

The list below provides more details on what are the major healing constituents of Gelsemium sempervirens and why they are important for health.

The table that follows estimates the relative concentrations of the main medicinal constituents contained in Gelsemium sempervirens and lists the most relevant medicinal properties of each constituent based on the corresponding concentrations.

ConstituentConcentrationProperties
GelsemineLOWAntimicrobial, Antioxidant, Anti-inflammatory, Analgesic, Sedative, Neurotoxic
SaponinsLOWAntimicrobial, Antioxidant, Anti-inflammatory, Analgesic, Cytotoxic
FlavonoidsLOWAntimicrobial, Antioxidant, Anti-inflammatory, Analgesic, Antibacterial, Antifungal
AlkaloidsMEDIUMAntimicrobial, Antioxidant, Anti-inflammatory, Neuroprotective, Sedative, Hypnotic
Phenolic acidsLOWAntimicrobial, Antioxidant, Anti-inflammatory, Antibacterial, Antifungal, Analgesic, Antipyretic, Anticancer
TerpenoidsLOWAntimicrobial, Antioxidant, Anti-inflammatory, Antispasmodic, Analgesic, Sedative, Antiviral
CoumarinsLOWAntimicrobial, Antioxidant, Anti-inflammatory, Anticancer, Anticoagulant
GlycosidesLOWAntimicrobial, Anti-inflammatory, Analgesic, Cardioactive, Neurotoxic
TanninsLOWAntioxidant, Anti-inflammatory, Pain relief, Analgesic, Antimicrobial, Antiviral
GelsemidineLOWAntimicrobial, Antioxidant, Cytotoxic

What are the most used parts of Gelsemium sempervirens in medicine?

The most used parts of Gelsemium sempervirens for medicinal purposes are roots, rhizomes, and leaves.

Roots contain alkaloids, such as gelsemine and sempervirine, which exhibit sedative, analgesic, and anti-inflammatory properties, making them useful for treating insomnia, pain, and inflammation. Rhizomes contain flavonoids, including gelsevins and gelsemine, which have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, making them useful for treating oxidative stress and inflammation. Leaves contain saponins and flavonoids, including kaempferol and quercetin, which have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, making them useful for treating oxidative stress and inflammation.

The primary medicinal properties of these parts are sedative, analgesic, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory, making them useful for treating various health conditions, including insomnia, pain, and inflammation.

The following illustration give a summary of the most used parts of Gelsemium sempervirens in medicine.

parts of Gelsemium sempervirens

The list below provides more details on what are the most used parts of Gelsemium sempervirens in medicine and why.

The table that follows gives a more complete list of healing constituents found in each part of Gelsemium sempervirens mentioned above.

PartConstituents
RootsGelsemine, Gelsemoidine, Glaucine, Glaucinine, Tropine, Hydrocotarnine, Hydrocotarnine alkaloids
RhizomesGelsemine, Gelseminine, Berberine, Glaucine, Tetrandrine, Berberastine
LeavesGelsemine, Gelseminine, Gelsevin, Quercetin, Kaempferol, Amentoflavone, Glycosides, Alkaloids

What are the most common medicinal preparations of Gelsemium sempervirens?

The most common herbal preparation of Gelsemium sempervirens for medicinal purposes are tinctures, which are highly concentrated extracts used for their antispasmodic, sedative, and anti-inflammatory properties to treat anxiety, insomnia, and muscle spasms.

A salve, typically made with a combination of tincture and other natural ingredients, is applied topically to relieve pain and reduce inflammation in the muscles and joints. Gelsemium tea is often consumed to alleviate symptoms of stress, fatigue, and restlessness, while a decoction of the plant is used as an infusion to treat fever and rheumatic conditions. An ointment made from the plant's roots is applied directly to the affected area to soothe pain and inflammation, often in the case of arthritis and other inflammatory conditions.

These preparations are typically used under the guidance of a healthcare professional, as Gelsemium sempervirens can have adverse interactions with other medications and may cause side effects.

The following illustration give a summary of the most common medicinal preparations of Gelsemium sempervirens.

preparations of Gelsemium sempervirens

The list below provides more details on what are the most common medicinal preparations of Gelsemium sempervirens and what are their main uses.

The table that follows shows what are the most used parts of Gelsemium sempervirens for each medicinal preparation.

PreparationParts
TinctureRoots, Rhizomes, Leaves
SalveRoots, Rhizomes, Leaves
TeaRoots, Rhizomes, Leaves
DecoctionRoots, Rhizomes
OintmentRoots, Rhizomes

Tincture

Gelsemium sempervirens tincture is a herbal preparation commonly used to treat fatigue, insomnia, neuritis, paralysis, rheumatism, stress, headache, migraine, and premenstrual syndrome (PMS).

It's one of the most frequently used herbal tinctures due to its effectiveness in addressing various health issues. The most reported effect of Gelsemium sempervirens tincture is its sedative and relaxing properties, often inducing deep sleep and reducing anxiety. This tincture is typically made by macerating the roots, rhizomes, and leaves of the Gelsemium sempervirens plant in a solvent.

The process of making Gelsemium sempervirens tincture is considered moderately difficult due to the need for precise measurements and controlled extraction times to ensure optimal potency.

Below you find an image of Gelsemium sempervirens tincture.

tincture made with Gelsemium sempervirens

Below you find a 5-step quick procedure to make effective medicinal Gelsemium sempervirens tincture.

  1. Gather and clean the roots, rhizomes, and leaves of Gelsemium sempervirens, ensuring they are free from debris and contaminants.
  2. Air-dry the harvested plant material to a moisture level of around 20% to prevent mold and preserve its potency.
  3. Chop the dried roots, rhizomes, and leaves into small pieces to increase their surface area for extraction.
  4. Combine the chopped plant material with a neutral solvent, such as ethanol or glycerin, in a ratio suitable for tincture preparation, and allow it to steep for an extended period.
  5. Strain the tincture mixture through a cheesecloth or coffee filter to separate the liquid from the plant material, and transfer the resulting tincture to a clean glass container for storage.

Salve

Gelsemium sempervirens salve is a herbal preparation commonly used to treat muscle soreness, tendinitis, neuralgia, arthritis, bruises, sprains, strains, nerve pain, and fatigue.

It's widely used due to its effectiveness in relieving these conditions. The common effect of this preparation is pain relief and inflammation reduction. Gelsemium sempervirens salve is typically made from the roots, rhizomes, and leaves of the plant, which are combined with a carrier oil and other ingredients to create a topical salve.

The preparation is moderately difficult to make, requiring some knowledge of herbalism and the ability to accurately identify and extract the active compounds from the plant materials.

Below you find an image of Gelsemium sempervirens salve.

salve made with Gelsemium sempervirens

Below you find a 5-step quick procedure to make effective medicinal Gelsemium sempervirens salve.

  1. Harvest and dry the roots, rhizomes, and leaves of Gelsemium sempervirens in a well-ventilated area.
  2. Grind the dried roots, rhizomes, and leaves into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle.
  3. Mix the powdered plant material with a carrier oil, such as coconut oil or olive oil, in a heat-resistant container.
  4. Heat the mixture in a double boiler or a dedicated herbal oil heater until it reaches the desired temperature, allowing the plant's medicinal properties to infuse into the oil.
  5. Strain the infused oil through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean container, discard the solids, and allow the salve to cool before transferring it to small jars or tins.

Tea

Gelsemium sempervirens tea is a preparation used to treat insomnia, fatigue, muscle spasm, headache, anxiety, neuralgia, and depression.

It's a common herbal remedy, widely used in traditional medicine. The tea has a sedative effect, which is its most common effect. The preparation is made with roots, rhizomes, and leaves of the Gelsemium sempervirens plant.

Making the tea is relatively easy, as it involves steeping the plant material in hot water.

Below you find an image of Gelsemium sempervirens tea.

tea made with Gelsemium sempervirens

Below you find a 5-step quick procedure to make effective medicinal Gelsemium sempervirens tea.

  1. Gather and clean the roots, rhizomes, and leaves of the Gelsemium sempervirens plant.
  2. Dry the collected roots, rhizomes, and leaves in a warm, well-ventilated area.
  3. Grind the dried roots, rhizomes, and leaves into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle.
  4. Combine a suitable amount of the powder with boiling water in a heat-resistant container.
  5. Steep the mixture for an extended period, then strain and serve the herbal tea.

Decoction

Gelsemium sempervirens decoction is a herbal preparation used to treat neuritis, chronic fatigue, rheumatism, paralysis, epilepsy, numbness, muscle weakness and tremors.

It is a very common preparation, widely used in traditional medicine. The effects of this decoction are often reported to be sedative and analgesic. The preparation is typically made from the roots and rhizomes of the Gelsemium sempervirens plant, which are chopped and then decocted in water.

Moderately difficult to prepare, the decoction requires a certain level of expertise and attention to detail to ensure a safe and effective outcome.

Below you find a 5-step quick procedure to make effective medicinal Gelsemium sempervirens decoction.

  1. Gather and clean the roots and rhizomes of Gelsemium sempervirens.
  2. Cut the cleaned roots and rhizomes into small pieces to increase their surface area.
  3. Combine the root and rhizome pieces in a pot and add a sufficient amount of water.
  4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for an extended period.
  5. Strain the decoction and discard the solids, reserving the liquid for use.

Ointment

Gelsemium sempervirens ointment is used to treat neuralgia, rheumatism, lumbago, paralysis, tremors, and epilepsy.

It's a common preparation, widely used in herbal medicine. The common effect of Gelsemium sempervirens ointment is its ability to relieve pain and inflammation. The ointment is made from the roots and rhizomes of the plant.

Preparation of Gelsemium sempervirens ointment is moderately difficult due to the need for precise extraction and processing of the plant materials.

Below you find an image of Gelsemium sempervirens ointment.

ointment made with Gelsemium sempervirens

Below you find a 5-step quick procedure to make effective medicinal Gelsemium sempervirens ointment.

  1. Harvest fresh Gelsemium sempervirens roots and rhizomes, ensuring they are free of contaminants.
  2. Clean and dry the roots and rhizomes thoroughly, then chop them into small pieces.
  3. Combine the chopped roots and rhizomes in a clean glass jar and cover them with a neutral carrier oil, such as jojoba or grapeseed oil.
  4. Steep the mixture in a cool, dark place for several weeks, shaking the jar regularly to facilitate infusion.
  5. Strain the infused oil through cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean glass container, discarding the solids and storing the herbal ointment in a cool, dark place.

What are the possible side effects of Gelsemium sempervirens if used improperly?

The possible side effects of improperly using Gelsemium sempervirens are experiencing nausea due to its toxic glycosides, which can lead to developing headache as a result of irritation to the nervous system.

This can further cause showing fatigue and experiencing dizziness as the body struggles to process the toxins. Suffering from insomnia may also occur due to the plant's ability to affect the nervous system's ability to regulate sleep patterns, while experiencing muscle weakness can be a result of the plant's neurotoxic effects. Additionally, showing tremors may be a sign of more severe poisoning, which can eventually lead to experiencing confusion and developing seizures as the nervous system is severely impaired.

If left unchecked, this can progress to experiencing respiratory depression, a life-threatening condition that requires immediate medical attention.

The most common side effects Gelsemium sempervirens gives people when used improperly are listed below, along with a brief explanation.

What are the precautions to take before using Gelsemium sempervirens medicinally?

The precautions to take before using Gelsemium sempervirens medicinally are to use it under medical supervision due to its potential toxicity.

Start with low doses to assess individual sensitivity, and avoid overuse to prevent accumulation of its toxic compounds, including gelsemine. Monitoring vital signs, such as heart rate and blood pressure, is essential to detect any adverse effects. Be aware of sensitivities, especially in individuals with pre-existing cardiovascular conditions, as gelsemine can exacerbate arrhythmias.

Additionally, disclose the use of Gelsemium sempervirens to healthcare providers, especially when taking other herbs that may interact with it, such as sedatives, and avoid it in children and elderly, store in a cool, dry place, and exercise caution during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

The most important precautions you must take before using Gelsemium sempervirens for medicinal purposes are listed below, along with a brief explanation.

Related herbs to Gelsemium sempervirens?