Birthwort
- Aristolochia clematitis L.
- Aristolochiaceae
- Birthwort family
Common Names
 Aristolochia root
Ma-tou-ling
Upright birthwort
Parts Usually Used
Rootstock, flowers
Description of Plant(s) and
Culture
Birthwort is a perennial plant; the erect, yellow-green, somewhat sinuous stem grows 1-3 feet tall from a long, thin rootstock. The dark green leaves are kidney-shaped and short-petioled. The flowers occur in axillary clusters and feature a yellowish-green, curved, tubular calyx. Flowering time is May to June.
Other varieties: Virginia snakeroot (A. serpentaria), Dutchman's-pipe (A. tomentosa).
Where Found
Found growing in fence rows, tickets, field edges, and vineyards.
Medicinal Properties
Diaphoretic, emmenagogue, febrifuge, oxytocic, stimulant
Uses
The ancient Egyptians used birthwort for snakebite. Used for uterine contractions in childbirth, indigestion, dysmenorrhea, menstrual problems. The decoction used externally for wounds, sores, and leg ulcers.
Formulas or Dosages
Use the entire plant when it is in flower, otherwise use only the rootstock.
Decoction: use 2 tbsp. fresh plant or rootstock with 1 cup water. Boil for 10 minutes, then strain. Dosage as directed by a doctor.
Cold extract: Use 1 tsp. plant or rootstock with 1 cup cold water. Let stand for 6 to 8 hours. Dosage is directed by a doctor.
Warning
Birthwort contains a substance that acts similar to poisonous alkaloid colchicine. Use with care, preferably with medical supervision.
Do not take during pregnancy, only during labor at childbirth.
Use only under medical supervision.
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