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Hairy Birthwort (Xun Gu Feng)
⚠ Do not use. Hairy birthwort (Xun Gu Feng) is an Aristolochia species. Plants of this kind contain, or are routinely confused with plants that contain, aristolochic acid, which causes kidney failure and urinary-tract cancer. The U.S. FDA has banned their import and sale. This page is kept for historical reference only; nothing here is a recommendation.
噚骨風
Hairy birthwort (Xungufeng)
Pharmaceutical Name: Herba Aristolochiae Mollissimae
Botanical Name: Aristolochia mollissima Hance
Common Name: Hairy birthwort
Source of Earliest Record: Zhiwu Mingshi Tukao
Part Used: The whole plant is gathered in summer or autumn, cleaned and dried.
Natural Properties & Taste: Pungent, bitter and neutral
Meridians: Liver
Therapeutic Effects:
1. To dispel wind and dampness.
2. To clear the channels and collaterals.
3. To stop pain.
Indications & Combinations: Wind-damp obstruction syndrome manifested as joint pain, numbness of the limbs, tendon and muscle spasms and pain from external injury. Hairy birthwort (Xungufeng) may be used alone in decoction or soaked in wine, or used with other herbs that dispel wind and dampness.
Dosage: 10-15 g
Traditional use is not proof of safety or effect. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist before using any herb if you are pregnant, nursing, or take medicine.