Jewelweed

There are some 850 species of annuals, evergreen perennials, and subshrubs in this genus, which is widely distributed, especially in damp habitats in tropical and subtropical parts of Asia and Africa. Most have succulent stems, orchid-like flowers, and five-valved capsules that open explosively to release the seeds. Jewelweeds have long been used by native N Americans to relieve the pain and irritation of rashes and eczema, particularly by the Potawatomi, who appled the juice to poison-ivy rash. One of the species used is Impatiens pallida, which grows wild mainly in limestone regions. It is similar in appearance to the more common I. capensis (orange balsam), but has more glaucous foliage, and paler, less spotted flowers. In Asia, the species most used is I. balsamina, which is popular as an ornamental in the West. The leaves are used as a healing poultice, and in a decoction to encourage hair growth. In both Chinese and Vietnamese medicine the seeds are used to stimulate the uterus, and in Vietnam the flowers are mixed with alum to dye the nails.

Tall, hairless annual with succulent stems and gray-green, coarsley-toothed leaves. Yellow pendent flowers, occasionally spotted red-brown, appear in summer.

Common Name:	Jewelweed
Other Names:	Pale-touch-me-not
Botanical Name:	Impatiens pallida
Genus:	Impatiens
Family:	Balsamminaceae
Native Location:	Asia, Africa
Cultivation:	Moist, soil in sun or shade
Propagation:	By seed sown in spring at 16-18°C (61-64°F)
Harvest:	Plants are cut when flowering and used fresh for ointments and juice extraction.
Height:	60cm-1.5m (2-5ft)
Width:	30-60cm (12-24in)
Hardiness:	Hardy
Parts Used:	Whole plant, juice.
Properties:	An acrid herb that has diuretic, purgative and emetic effects if taken internally.
Medicinal Uses:	Externally for rashes caused by Rhus spp. (See, smooth sumac), corns, warts, ringworm (juice), and hemorrhoids (ointment).
Bibliography:	Encylopedia of Herbs by Deni Brown Copyright ©: 1995, 2001 Dorling Kindersley Limited pg 242