Thunder God Vine
Feb 17, 2025
Thunder God Vine
Thunder god vine, known as Tripterygium wilfordii, is a vine that grows in China. It is primarily promoted to be used for rheumatoid arthritis.
Mechanism of Action:
This vine contains chemicals that alter the way the immune system functions in order to relieve swelling.
Dosage:
When taken for rheumatoid arthritis, some studies have shown that 60-350 mg of the vine extract is safe if consumed orally.
Evidence:
Some studies have shown that taking thunder god vine along with standard treatment for rheumatoid arthritis has been shown to be more effective when compared to the standard treatment alone for reducing inflammation and swelling.
This has led people to consume thunder god vine, while undergoing standard rheumatoid arthritis treatment. Although more research needs to be conducted, some studies are showing that thunder god vine can prove to be beneficial for treating Crohn's disease, kidney disorders, and psoriasis.
Some studies have even shown that thunder god vine is more effective for treating theumatoid arthritis than conventional disease modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs).
Precautions:
Thunder god vine can cause upset stomach, vomiting, diarrhea, kidney issues, and missed menstrual periods. Thunder god vine can cause birth defects, so it should be avoided when pregnant.
Due to its immunosuppressive effects, this vine should be avoided in patients who already have a weakened immune system due to another medical condition. It should be avoided in people who have osteoporosis as it can weaken bone strength. It can also alter sperm and lead to a decrease in male fertility.
Interactions:
Thunder god vine should not be taken with immunosuppressants and drugs that are metabolized by the liver.
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