Aristolochiaceae

Alterative Ma dou ling
The fruit and its capsule are antiasthmatic antiseptic antitussive and expectorant. It is used internally in the treatment of asthma and various other chest complaints haemorrhoids and hypertension.The root is anodyne and anti-inflammatory. It is used internally in the treatment of snakebite gastric disorders involving bloating and is clinically effective against hypertension. It is harvested in the autumn and dried for later use.The whole plant is antitussive carminative stimulant and tonic.The root contains aristolochic acid. This has anti-cancer properties and can be used in conjunction with chemotherapy and radiotherapy. Aristolochic acid can also be used in the treatment of acute and serious infections such as TB hepatitis liver cirrhosis and infantile pneumonia. It also increases the cellular immunity and phagocytosis function of the phagocytic cells. Aristolochic acid is said to be too toxic for clinical use.

Herbal Database

01.01.2005 01:23 []