Tripterygium wilfordii, commonly known as Thunder Duke Vine, is a vine native to China, Japan, and Korea. It has a long history of use in traditional Chinese medicine due to its potential health benefits.
However, its use has sparked both interest and controversy in recent years, primarily due to its powerful therapeutic properties and associated side effects.
Health Effects and Traditional Uses
Tripterygium wilfordii has significant anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive properties. It has been traditionally used to treat various autoimmune and inflammatory diseases, including rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, and kidney disease.
Here are some of its notable uses:
- Rheumatoid Arthritis: In China, T. wilfordii has been employed as a treatment for rheumatoid arthritis. While some evidence suggests that it may improve certain symptoms, the risks associated with its use outweigh the potential benefits.
- Anti-Inflammatory Effects: The plant’s extract contains active compounds such as triptolide and celastrol, which exhibit anti-inflammatory properties.
- Potential Anti-Cancer Properties: Research has shown that a derivative of T. wilfordii, minnelide, may have the potential to treat pancreatic cancer by killing tumor cells and reducing tumor size.
- Treatment of Skin Conditions: T. wilfordii has been used to manage skin conditions like psoriasis, eczema, and vitiligo.
- Immune-Mediated Diseases: It has been employed in the treatment of various immune-mediated diseases, including lupus and Sjögren’s syndrome.
Safety and Side Effects
While T. wilfordii shows promise in treating certain conditions, it comes with significant side effects and safety concerns. Here are some key points to consider:
- Toxicity: The plant as a whole is toxic and can be dangerous when consumed. It has been associated with liver and kidney damage, as well as bone marrow suppression.
- Gastrointestinal Issues: Gastrointestinal symptoms have been reported in some users.
- Adverse Reproductive Outcomes: Some individuals have experienced irregular menstruation and infertility while using T. wilfordii.
- Immune Suppression: Medicinal doses of T. wilfordii can lead to immunosuppression, leaving individuals more susceptible to infections.
Government Warnings
Several government agencies have issued warnings about the use of T. wilfordii due to its potential side effects:
- The United Kingdom government does not recommend the use of T. wilfordii due to potential side effects.
- The UK Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency advised consumers not to use medicines containing lei gong teng (a common name for T. wilfordii) due to potentially serious side effects.
- The China State Food and Drug Administration also urged caution regarding its use.
Research on Birth Control
Tripterygium wilfordii has been explored for its potential use as a form of birth control. While some studies suggest it may reduce sperm count in males, the safety and effectiveness of using this herb for birth control remain questionable.
Other compounds within the plant may lead to severe toxicity, making it a risky choice for contraception.
Conclusion
Tripterygium wilfordii, known as Thunder Duke Vine, holds promise in the treatment of various autoimmune and inflammatory diseases.
However, its use is associated with significant side effects and safety concerns, making it a topic of ongoing research and debate.
As always, it is essential to consult with healthcare professionals before considering its use as a treatment option.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment or medication.
References:
- UK Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency. (2011). Traditional Chinese medicines containing lei gong teng (Tripterygium wilfordii). Drug Safety Update. https://www.gov.uk/drug-safety-update/traditional-chinese-medicines-containing-lei-gong-teng-tripterygium-wilfordii
- Nature Communications. (2021). Triptonide is an effective male birth control agent with low toxicity. https://lundquist.org/news/nature-communications-publishes-paper-lundquist-institute-investigator-dr-wei-yan-and
- ScienceDirect Topics. (n.d.). Tripterygium wilfordii – an overview. https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/medicine-and-dentistry/tripterygium-wilfordii
- National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health. (n.d.). Thunder God Vine. https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/thunder-god-vine
- RxList. (2021). Thunder God Vine: Health Benefits, Side Effects, Uses, Dose. https://www.rxlist.com/thunder_god_vine/supplements.htm
