Botany - High John Root

Scientific name Ipomoea jalapa
Appearance Tubular root, rounded, firm and compact, with a rough surface
Smell Earthy, slightly bitter, resinous
Color Dark brown to black on the outside, beige or ivory on the inside
Used parts Whole root (often carried intact or grated into powder)
Origins Southern United States, Caribbean, Mexico (native plant of Central America)
Toxicity level Moderate (external use preferred; ingestion not recommended without medical supervision)