Aristolochia spp.
Broad genus of birthwort plants all containing aristolochic acids in varying concentrations. Species include A. fangchi, A. manshuriensis, A. contorta and others historically used in Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine. All species banned globally due to nephrotoxicity and carcinogenicity.
How it works (mechanism of action)
Acts on cellular signalling pathways relevant to the documented clinical indications. Contains bioactive compounds with enzyme-modulating, receptor-binding, or antioxidant properties studied in peer-reviewed literature.
ALL Aristolochia species BANNED globally (EU Decision 2002/159/EC, FDA advisory, Health Canada, TGA Australia, MHRA UK). Nephrotoxic and carcinogenic. No species is safe at any dose. Products must be tested to confirm absence of Aristolochia contamination.