|
| Aristolochia
clematitis |
 |
| Name |
| Birthwort |
| Biological
Name |
Aristolochia clematitis |
| Other Names |
| Aristolochia root, upright birthwort, birthwort,
ma dou ling |
| Parts Used |
| Rootstock, flowering herb, fruit |
| History |
| Birthwort is a remedy that goes back to
the ancient Egyptians, who used it for snakebite. Early writings also
indicate that it has long been used to promote uterine contractions
during childbirth. |
| Remedies
For |
Diaphoretic, emmenagogue, febrifuge, oxytocic, stimulant
Fruit: Expectorant, antitussive, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial,
antifungal
Birthwort has been used for abdominal complaints and menstrual
problems. The decoction can be used externally for wounds and also
for leg ulcers.
Chinese herbalists use the fruit when there is lung heat and inflammation,
with or without deficiency, but with the presence of phlegm. For
these conditions, it stops coughing and wheezing. It is also used
internally to treat bleeding hemorrhoids. |
| Description |
| Birthwort is a perennial plant found growing
around fences, thickets, field edges, and vineyards. The erect, yellow-green,
somewhat sinuous stem grows to a height of 1 to 3 feet from a long,
thin rootstock. The dark green leaves are kidney-shaped and short-petioled.
The yellowish-green flowers appear in May and June. |
| Dosage |
When the plant is in flower, use the entire plant, including the
rootstock; otherwise use the rootstock alone.
Decoction: Use 2 tbsp. fresh plant (or rootstock) with 1 cup water.
Boil for 10 minutes, then strain. Dosage as directed by a doctor.
Cold Extract: Use 2 tsp. plant or rootstock with 1 cup cold water.
Let stand for 6 to 8 hours. Dosage as directed by a doctor.
Fruit: 3-9 grams |
| Safety |
CAUTION: Birthwort contains a substance that acts similar to the
poisonous alkaloid colchicine. Do not use except under professional
supervision.
Aristolochia fruit should not be used in cases of spleen deficiency
with diarrhea or conditions of cold and deficiency with cough and
wheezing.
NOT RECOMMENDED. |
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