Akebia (Mu Tong)

Chinese Bulk Herbs – Akebia (Mu Tong)

Akebia relieves depression and promotes blood circulation to help in pain relief. It’s also been used to destroy parasites and causes dieresis (secretion of urine). It can be used on snake and insect bites.

Clinical Use (Chinese):
Promotes urination, drains heat from the heart through the small intestine – irritability with sores of the mouth or tongue, and scanty urination.

Latin Name:
Akebia trifoliata
Akebia quinata

Chinese Name:
Mu Tong

Common Names:
Chocolate Vine, Clemantis root, five-leaf chocolate vine, five-leaf akebia

Parts Used:
The nearly ripe fruit. It is collected in September, washed, dried, and sliced.

Properties:
Bitter in flavor, cold in property, acts on the liver, gallbladder, stomach, and the bladder.

Cautions:
You should not use Akebia if you have spleen problems or diarrhea.

*Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

**This information is provided to assist trained practitioners of traditional Chinese medicine with selection of products. If you are not familiar with these formulas or concepts please consult an acupuncturist or herbal practitioner trained in the use of Chinese herbs or refer to more in-depth reference materials. Chinese herbal remedies are meant to improve health and function, not act as a substitute for medical care.