Synonyms: Chi Hsiang Teng, Chicken-Dung Creeper, Chinese Flower Plant, Chinese Moon-Creeper, Ji Xiang Teng, King's Tonic, Stinking Opal Berry
Family: Rubiaceae
Genus species: Paederia foetida, Paederia scandens var. tomentosa, Convolvulus foetidus, Apocynum foetidum
Type: Twining herb
Part Used: Leaves
Location: Assam, Bengal, central Himalayas, China, eastern Himalayas, pantropical, South India, western India
Actions: Anodyne, anthelmintic, anticancer, anti-inflammatory, antiphlogistic, antipyretic, antispasmodic, aphrodisiac, astringent, bitter, carminative, detoxifier, diuretic, energy booster, increases semen, laxative, promotes sexual vigor, tonic
Indications: Ague, alcoholism, arthritis, common cold, convalescence, cough, diarrhea, dysentery, edema, flatulence, hemorrhoids, herpes, impotence, intestinal disorders, jaundice, rheumatism, snakebite, splenitis, stomachache, tenesmus, tobacco addiction, toothache, urinary calculi
Preparation & Dosages:
Decoction: 9-15 g, in 2-3 doses
Infusion 12-24 ml; decoction 56 - 112 ml
Drug Interactions: Due to the diuretic action of this herb the following drug interactions are possible: increased risk of toxicity with anti-inflammatory analgesics; if hypokalemia occurs possible antagonism with antiarrhythmics and potentiation of muscle relaxants; antagonizes antidiabetic (hypoglycemic) drugs; may potentiate and/or interfere with antihypertensives; may potentiate lithium therapy; when taken with corticosteroids there is a risk for hypokalemia; may potentiate other diuretics and increase the risk of hypokalemia.
Warning: The Australian government considers Apocynum spp. unsafe for human consumption.