Birthwort
Aristolochia clematitis
Aristolochia clematitis, commonly known as the white birthwort, is a plant traditionally found in Europe. While its use in traditional medicine has not been documented, it has been associated with certain geographical and ecological contexts; Zerynthia cerisy butterflies prefer residential areas, whereas Z. polyxena are more common near semi-natural agricultural and water bodies. Scientific evidence suggests that Aristolochia clematitis may be linked to the presence of aristolochic acids and aristolactams in Balkan Endemic Nephropathy (BEN) settlements, with higher concentrations found compared to control areas. A study also indicated that an extract from this plant loaded into liposomes demonstrated controlled release and antimicrobial activity against certain bacterial strains. No major safety concerns or drug interactions have been recorded for Aristolochia clematitis in the available literature.
- 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