Cardiospermum halicacabum

Heartseed

(Kanphuti; Balloon vine) Climbing annual common throughout India. Leaves are mixed in castor oil to treat stiff limbs, rheumatism and lumbago. Root has diaphoretic, diuretic and laxative properties. Leaf juice is used for earache. Cooked and eaten in India and Africa. Decorative black seeds with cute heart-shaped white faces are used for necklaces.