Balloon Vine : Cardiospermum Halicacabum

Balloon Vine : Cardiospermum Halicacabum

Balloon vine, a well-known medicinal herb, is a climbing plant widely seen in tropical and subtropical Africa and Asia, with small white flowers and balloon like fruits. Each fruit has three seeds.

Scientific name: Cardiospermum Halicacabum

Family: Sapindaceae (Soapberry family)

English: Heartseed plant, Love in a puff, Balloon plant

Malayalam: Uzhinja, Jyotishmati

Tamil: Mudakkathan keerai

Hindi: Kapalphoti

Sanskrit: Indravalli

In Kerala, this plant grows abundantly in the village sides. When I was in Kerala, I don’t know that they are edible plants. Later, I came to know that in Kerala & Tamilnadu, balloon vine leaves are used in their cuisine, mainly for its medicinal values. We can make rasam, chutney, idly, dosa and soups using its leaves. The matured leaves are too bitter and hairy. We have to use the soft, young and vibrant green leaves with no signs of yellow or browning for cooking.

In Tamil Nadu people used to say “the person who eats Mudakathan Keerai regularly will never gets joint related diseases". The name “Mudakathan” in Tamil means “keep away arthritis”.

Balloon vines are easy to grow plants in containers. We can sow the balloon vine seeds in potting mix in a container. We can also grow balloon vine by planting its saplings. It ensures daily fresh produce for your recipes. Nowadays, balloon vine is sold by many street vendors in cities.

 Balloon vine leaves are used for treating children’s cold and cough. It is also used for treat ear pain, menstrual problems, skin problems, hair problems, diarrhea, snake bites and joint pains. Balloon vine leaves are very effective in treating arthritis. Balloon vine leaves are good in treating anemia. It is also used as a hair growth stimulator.

 Plant a balloon vine in your home garden and get the benefits of fresh supply of leaves.

Happy gardening !!!

Disclaimer: Information on this website is not an alternative to medical advice from your doctor or other professional healthcare provider. Please consult your physician or health care provider before taking any home remedies.