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Clematis (wei ling xian)
What is clematis? What is it used
for?
Clematis is a non-climbing, leafy plant native to Europe.
The plant grows to a height of 2-4 feet, with white, pink
or purple flowers. The flowers are used in a variety of herbal
formulas and preparations.
Traditionally, clematis was used to treat blisters and as
a poultice for infected wounds and ulcers. It was also employed
as a remedy for venereal diseases (particularly syphilis),
rheumatism and bone disorders. Today, it is used by the pharmaceutical
industry for rheumatic pains, headaches and varicose veins.
Homeopathic practitioners sometimes incorporate clematis into
their formulas for ulcers and the promotion of wound healing.
How much clematis should I take?
There is no standard recommended dosage for clematis; however,
tiny amounts of clematis are used in homeopathic dilutions.
What forms of clematis are available?
Clematis is seldom used in modern practices. It is available
in the form of decoctions, which are used in poultices, extracts
and homeopathic formulas.
What can happen if I take too much
clematis? Are there any interactions I should be aware
of? What precautions should I take?
Clematis is poisonous. While there are no known health hazards
or side-effects when the herb is taken in proper doses, extended
skin contact with freshly harvested clematis can cause skin
rashes and blisters. High doses taken internally may cause
gastrointestinal distress, diarrhea, colic, and irritation
of the urinary tract.
Clematis should never be used by children, or by women who
are pregnant or lactating.
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References
- Ali-Shtayeh MS, Abu Ghdeib SI. Antifungal
activity of plant extracts against dermatophytes. Mycoses
1999;42(11-12):665-72.
- Gruenwald J, Brendler T, Jaenicke C (eds.)
PDR for Herbal Medicines. Montvale, NJ: Medical Economics
Company, 2000, p. 194-195.
- Kizu H, Shimana H, Tomimori T. Studies
on the constituents of clematis species. VI. The constituents
of clematis stans sieb. et zucc. Chem Pharm Bull
Dec 1995;43:2187-94.
- Shropshire CM, Stauber E, Arai M. Evaluation
of selected plants for acute toxicosis in budgerigars. J
Am Vet Med Assoc Apr 1, 1992;200:936-9.
- Xu R, Zhao W, Xu J, Shao B, Qin G. Studies
on bioactive saponins from Chinese medicinal plants. Adv
Exp Med Biol 1996;404:371-82.
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