Aristolochia fangchi

Aristolochia fangchi is a species of perennial plant in the Aristolochiaceae family. It is native to China and has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for centuries. The plant is known for its distinctive, pipe-shaped flowers, which give it its common name, Chinese pipevine.

Description[edit | edit source]

The Aristolochia fangchi plant is a climbing vine that can reach up to 10 meters in height. Its leaves are heart-shaped and can be up to 10 cm long. The flowers are yellowish-green, with a purplish-brown interior, and are shaped like a pipe or a Dutchman's pipe, hence the common name.

Uses[edit | edit source]

In traditional Chinese medicine, Aristolochia fangchi is used to treat a variety of ailments, including pain, inflammation, and infections. However, the plant contains aristolochic acid, a potent carcinogen and nephrotoxin. Consumption of products containing aristolochic acid can lead to aristolochic acid nephropathy, a type of kidney disease, and urothelial cancer.

Toxicity[edit | edit source]

The World Health Organization has classified Aristolochia fangchi as a Group 1 carcinogen, the highest level of risk. Despite this, the plant continues to be used in some traditional medicines, often without clear labeling. In 2001, the Food and Drug Administration in the United States issued a warning about the use of aristolochic acid in herbal products.