Aristolochia clematitis

Aristolochia clematitis
Family:Aristolochia clematitis; Abortifacient; Antiinflammatory; Antispasmodic; Diaphoretic; Emmenagogue; Febrifuge; Oxytoxic; Stimulant.
Common name:Birthwort
Birthwort has a very long history of medicinal use though it has been little researched scientifically and is little used by present-day herbalists. It is an aromatic tonic herb that stimulates the uterus reduces inflammation controls bacterial infections and promotes healing. The juice from the stems was used to induce childbirth. The plant contains aristolochic acid which whilst stimulating white blood cell activity and speeding the healing of wounds is also carcinogenic and damaging to the kidneys. The flowering herb with or without the root is abortifacient anti-inflammatory antispasmodic diaphoretic emmenagogue febrifuge oxytocic and stimulant. Another report says that the root is used on its own whilst a third says that either the fresh flowering herb or the dried rootstock can be used. The plant should not be used internally without experienced supervision externally it is used in the treatment of slow-healing cuts eczema infected toe and finger nails etc. Use with caution internal consumption can cause damage to the kidneys and uterine bleeding. It should not be used by pregnant women.

Herbal Database

01.01.2005 01:22 []