The Fascinating World of Ipomoea tricolor: The Mexican Morning Glory


Table of Contents


  • Introduction
  • Botanical Characteristics
    • Description
    • Habitat and Cultivation
  • Psychoactive Properties
    • Historical Context
    • Entheogenic Use
  • Chemical Composition
  • Legal Status
  • FAQs



Introduction


Ipomoea tricolor, commonly referred to as the Mexican morning glory, is a flowering plant belonging to the family Convolvulaceae. This species is native to the New World tropics and has been widely cultivated and naturalized in various regions around the globe. Known for its striking flowers and potential psychoactive properties, I. tricolor has garnered interest from both botanists and ethnobotanists.


Botanical Characteristics


Description


Ipomoea tricolor is characterized as an herbaceous annual or perennial twining liana, capable of reaching heights of 2 to 4 meters (approximately 7 to 13 feet). Its leaves are spirally arranged, measuring between 3 to 7 cm in length and possessing petioles that range from 1.5 to 6 cm. The flowers of this species are trumpet-shaped, typically measuring 4 to 9 cm (2 to 4 inches) in diameter. The most common color of the flowers is blue, often featuring a center that transitions from white to golden yellow.


Habitat and Cultivation


This plant thrives in tropical environments and can adapt to a variety of growing conditions. It is often cultivated for ornamental purposes due to its attractive flowers and vigorous growth habits. Furthermore, I. tricolor is sometimes utilized in traditional practices among indigenous cultures.


Psychoactive Properties


Historical Context


The psychoactive properties of I. tricolor have been recognized for centuries, particularly among Mexican Native American cultures. R. Gordon Wasson, an influential ethnobotanist, posited that the hallucinogenic seeds referred to by the Aztecs as tlitliltzin were, in fact, the seeds of I. tricolor. He also noted that the Zapotec people of Oaxaca refer to these seeds as badoh negro.


In 1941, Richard Schultes documented the historical usage of I. tricolor among Mexican Native Americans, highlighting its significance as an entheogen in ceremonial practices. Further research published in 1960 by Don Thomes MacDougall indicated that the seeds were used as sacraments by certain Zapotec groups, often in combination with seeds from Rivea corymbosa, a related species containing lysergol, a compound similar in structure to the alkaloids found in I. tricolor.


Entheogenic Use


The entheogenic applications of I. tricolor have gained broader recognition in contemporary culture, as interest in traditional psychoactive plants has surged beyond indigenous communities. This has led to an increase in its usage among non-Native American individuals seeking psychoactive experiences.


Chemical Composition


The psychoactive effects of I. tricolor are primarily attributed to its content of ergoline alkaloids, particularly ergine, also known as d-lysergic acid amide (LSA). Although the association of ergine with hallucinogenic effects is widely accepted, the extent of its efficacy is still a topic of debate among researchers. Other alkaloids present in the plant, such as lysergic acid hydroxyethylamide and ergonovine, are also believed to contribute to its psychoactive properties.


Legal Status


In the United States, ergine is classified as a Schedule III substance. However, various parts of the Ipomoea tricolor plant are not controlled under federal law. As a result, seeds and plants are still readily available for purchase from numerous nurseries and garden suppliers, despite their potential psychoactive effects.


FAQs


1. What is Ipomoea tricolor commonly known as?


Ipomoea tricolor is commonly known as the Mexican morning glory.


2. What are the psychoactive components of this plant?


The psychoactive components primarily include ergoline alkaloids such as ergine (LSA), along with other compounds like lysergic acid hydroxyethylamide and ergonovine.


3. Is Ipomoea tricolor legal to grow and use?


In the United States, while ergine is classified as a Schedule III substance, the plant itself is not federally regulated, allowing seeds and plants to be sold legally.


4. How has Ipomoea tricolor been used historically?


Historically, I. tricolor has been used as an entheogen in various ceremonial practices by indigenous Mexican cultures, particularly by the Aztecs and Zapotecs.


5. What are the typical colors of Ipomoea tricolor flowers?


The flowers of I. tricolor are typically blue, with centers that may range from white to golden yellow.