Aristolochia
Aristolochia
Aristolochia is a plant traditionally found in various regions of Asia, particularly China. It has not been extensively used in traditional medicine practices. Scientific evidence suggests a potential link between aristolochic acid exposure and hepatocellular carcinoma, though direct causal evidence remains limited. Aristolochia species have shown some antifungal and insecticidal properties in laboratory conditions, but these findings are preliminary and require further investigation. The new species Aristolochia ferox is described as endemic to northern Guangxi, China, with small populations potentially threatened by harvesting; it contains aristolochic acids (AAs), which are highly toxic and carcinogenic, linked to Balkan endemic nephropathy and upper urinary tract carcinoma. No major safety issues or drug interactions have been recorded for this plant.
- Best evidence
- D
- Cautions
- —
Informational only. Traditional use does not mean proven effectiveness. Evidence and safety vary — check the cited sources.
What the science says
- Aristolochia species showed some antifungal and insecticidal properties in laboratory conditions among plants identified for maize pest and disease control.
- Aristolochia ferox, a new species endemic to Guangxi, China, is described and found to be critically endangered.
- Emerging evidence suggests a potential link between aristolochic acid exposure and hepatocellular carcinoma, though direct causal evidence in humans remains limited.
- Aristolochia plants contain aristolochic acids (AAs), which are highly toxic and carcinogenic, linked to Balkan endemic nephropathy and upper urinary tract carcinoma.
- The presence of Aristolochia clematitis was significantly higher in Balkan Endemic Nephropathy settlements compared to control locations.
Frequently asked questions
What is Aristolochia?
Aristolochia (Aristolochia) is a plant documented in FolkKB's traditional-medicine reference, drawn from sourced literature and cross-checked against the evidence.
What does the scientific evidence say about Aristolochia?
5 sourced findings are recorded for Aristolochia; the strongest carries evidence grade D. For example: Aristolochia species showed some antifungal and insecticidal properties in laboratory conditions among plants identified for maize pest and disease control.
How strong is the evidence for Aristolochia?
The strongest finding for Aristolochia carries evidence grade D — preliminary or traditional. Grades run A (strongest) to D (preliminary or traditional).
Is Aristolochia safe? What are the side effects?
No major safety issues are recorded for Aristolochia in our sources, but the data may be incomplete. Consult a qualified professional before use.
Does Aristolochia interact with medications?
No drug interactions are recorded for Aristolochia in our sources. This does not rule them out — check with a pharmacist.
What are the common names of Aristolochia?
Aristolochia is also known as: кирказон, Aristoloche.
Is Aristolochia a proven treatment?
No. FolkKB is informational only. Traditional use and early findings are not proof of efficacy or safety — consult a qualified professional and never self-treat.
Sources
- T2 Intersecting Pathways: Exploring the Link Between Balkan Endemic Nephropathy and Distribution of Aristolochia clematitis, Air Pollution and Pliocene Lignite Coal. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Beyond Tradition: An Integrated Toxicological, Ecological, and Public Health Perspective on Aristolochic Acids. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Aristolochia ferox, a new species of subg. Siphisia (Aristolochiaceae) from Guangxi, China. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Medicinal Plants as Biopesticides Against Pests and Diseases of Maize (Zea mays L.) in Africa: Ethnobotanical Insights and Challenges. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Aristolochic Acid and Hepatocellular Carcinoma: A Critical Review of Genotoxic and Inflammatory Mechanisms. literature abstract metadata