Birthwort
Aristolochia clematitis
Aristolochia clematitis, commonly known as birthwort, is a plant traditionally found in Europe and parts of Asia. While there are no specific traditional uses recorded for this plant across various cultures, it has been observed that Zerynthia cerisy butterflies prefer residential areas with this plant, whereas Z. polyxena is more associated with semi-natural areas near agriculture and water bodies. Scientific studies have shown a significant presence of Aristolochia clematitis in settlements where Balkan Endemic Nephropathy cases were reported, compared to control and random locations. Research also indicates that the extract from this plant loaded into liposomes demonstrated controlled release and antimicrobial activity against certain bacterial strains. Notably, inhalation of air contaminated with aristolochic acids and aristolactams from A. clematitis has been identified as an unrecognized exposure route in villages near these weeds. Safety concerns are minimal based on current data; however, the presence of potentially harmful compounds makes caution advised. There have been no recorded drug interactions reported 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
- Zerynthia cerisy prefers residential areas while Z. polyxena is linked with semi-natural areas near agriculture and water bodies.
- This study identifies inhalation of AA-contaminated air as an unrecognized exposure route for aristolochic acids and aristolactams in BEN-endemic villages.
- The presence of Aristolochia clematitis was significantly higher in Balkan Endemic Nephropathy settlements compared to control and random locations.
- The study found that Aristolochia clematitis extract loaded into liposomes showed controlled release and antimicrobial activity against certain bacterial strains.
Frequently asked questions
What is Birthwort?
Birthwort (Aristolochia clematitis) 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 Birthwort?
4 sourced findings are recorded for Birthwort; the strongest carries evidence grade D. For example: Zerynthia cerisy prefers residential areas while Z. polyxena is linked with semi-natural areas near agriculture and water bodies.
How strong is the evidence for Birthwort?
The strongest finding for Birthwort carries evidence grade D — preliminary or traditional. Grades run A (strongest) to D (preliminary or traditional).
Is Birthwort safe? What are the side effects?
No major safety issues are recorded for Birthwort in our sources, but the data may be incomplete. Consult a qualified professional before use.
Does Birthwort interact with medications?
No drug interactions are recorded for Birthwort in our sources. This does not rule them out — check with a pharmacist.
What are the common names of Birthwort?
Birthwort is also known as: Кирказон ломоносовидный, Aristoloche clématite.
Is Birthwort 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 Analysis of Honey and Environmental Samples from BEN Endemic Villages in Serbia: Identification of a Novel Human Exposure Pathway for Aristolochic Acids and Aristolactams. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Ecology of Eastern and Southern Festoons: Living in a city or thriving in semi-natural areas? literature abstract metadata
- T2 Potentiation of the Pharmacological Effects of an Aristolochia clematitis L. Extract by Loading into Liposomes Facilitating Release to HaCaT Cells. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Intersecting Pathways: Exploring the Link Between Balkan Endemic Nephropathy and Distribution of Aristolochia clematitis, Air Pollution and Pliocene Lignite Coal. literature abstract metadata