Lei Gong Teng
Tripterygium wilfordii Hook. f.
โฏ TCM Properties
Dispels Wind-Dampness; Invigorates Blood and Unblocks the Channels and Collaterals; Reduces Swelling and Alleviates Pain; Kills Parasites and Resolves Toxicity; Clears Heat
Western Herbalism Properties
Botanical Description
Tripterygium wilfordii (Celastraceae), thunder god vine or Lei Gong Teng, is a deciduous woody climbing vine reaching 3-12 m, with reddish-brown angled twigs bearing minute warty lenticels. Leaves are alternate, ovate to elliptic, 4-15 cm long, with serrate margins and acuminate tips. Small greenish-white flowers are borne in terminal and axillary panicles 5-15 cm long, followed by distinctive three-winged, papery, reddish-brown samaras 1-2 cm across that give the genus its name. Native to montane scrub and forest margins of southern China, Taiwan, Myanmar, and Vietnam, the root xylem (debarked to reduce toxicity) is the principal medicinal part. The plant is highly toxic, containing triptolide and celastrol. (Sources: POWO; Wikipedia; Chen & Chen)
Dosage
| Form | Amount | Frequency | Duration | Population | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| decoction | 6-15g | Daily | โ | โ | โ |
Cultural & Historical Context
Traditional Chinese Uses
Lei Gong Teng (thunder god vine) is a cold, bitter, highly toxic herb used in Chinese medicine for conditions involving severe joint inflammation, autoimmune joint disease, and stubborn skin conditions. Its strong anti-inflammatory and immune-suppressing properties are applied for rheumatoid arthritis-type conditions and certain kidney diseases refractory to other treatments. Due to its extreme toxicity, it must only be used under close medical supervision with careful dose monitoring, and it is contraindicated in pregnancy.
Traditional American Uses
None Documented
Important Disclaimer
This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before using any herbal remedy, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, or taking medications.