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birthwort
Scientific Name: Aristolochia clematitis
Family: Aristolochiaceae
Category: Dicot
Growth: Vine, Forb/herb
Duration: Perennial
Other Names:
Birthwort: A Detailed Look
Birthwort is a common name applied to plants within the genus Aristolochia. These plants are also known as pipevine or Dutchman's pipe.
Taxonomy and Nomenclature
- Genus: Aristolochia
- Family: Aristolochiaceae (the birthwort family)
- Examples:
- Aristolochia clematitis (European birthwort)
- Aristolochia serpentaria (Virginia Snakeroot, Snakeweed)
- Aristolochia reticulata
- Synonyms: Some sources refer to Aristolochia clematitis as Upright Birthwort.
Considerations for Pets
- Some species are vines.
Considerations for Children
- Some species are vines.
Distribution and Habitat
Birthwort species are widespread and found in diverse climates. Aristolochia rotunda, for example, is described as a wild plant in Italy and the south of France, but primarily found in gardens elsewhere.
Morphological Characteristics
- Birthworts can be perennial herbs or lianas (woody, climbing plants).
- They typically have broad, heart-shaped leaves, sometimes with finely toothed edges.
- Flowers are often red, purple, or brown and are frequently described as having unusual shapes. Some have a trumpet-shape.
- Aristolochia clematitis (European birthwort) bears pale yellow, trumpet-shaped flowers in clusters of two to eight.
- The stem of the birthwort can be erect, yellow-green, and somewhat sinuous, growing 1-3 feet tall from a long, thin rootstock.
Historical and Traditional Uses
- Birthwort has a long history of use in traditional medicine, dating back to ancient Egyptians and figures like Hippocrates, Theophrast, Dioscurides, and Pliny.
- Historically, Aristolochia was used during labor to aid in the birthing process.
- In Chinese medicine, "Ma Dou Ling" (Birthwort Fruit) is used to relieve coughing and wheezing.
Known Hazards
- The root and stem of birthwort are considered poisonous.
- Aristolochia species contain aristolochic acid, a compound linked to cancer and kidney failure.
- Aristolochic acid has been implicated in upper urinary tract cancers resulting from its use in some medicines.
Quirky Facts
- Magickally, Aristolochia clematitis has been used to drive out demons.
- Some species of birthwort have malodorous flowers.
Further Information
- Encyclopedia.com offers information and facts about birthwort.
- PubMed contains indexed articles related to Aristolochia clematitis, including research by WINTER H.