The report on plant uses from [] treats Aristolochia megalophylla K.Schum. & Aristolochia mindanaensis Warb as synonyms of this species. However, both of these are recognised as distinct species in modern treatments of the genus. Therefore the reports from [] need to be treated with some reservation - whilst they might belong to this species, it is not impossible that they are either also relevant for A megalophylla and A mindanaensis, or that they do not refer to this species at all but to one or both of them[].

Common Name:

General Information

Aristolochia acuminata is a slender, evergreen climbing plant with stems that become woody, at least at their base. The stems can be up to 20 metres long, scrambling over the ground or supporting themselves by twining around other plants[, ].
The plant is sometimes gathered from the wild for local medicinal use.

Known Hazards

This species containes aristolochic acid, which is known to have toxic side effects in larger doses. Acute toxic manifestations are tachycardia, increased respiratory rate, ataxia, sedation and marked vasodilation. Short-term chronic toxic effects include hepatotoxicity, marked renal damage and mild hematologic dyscracias[].

Botanical References

, ,

Range

E. Asia - Indian subcontinent, China, Myanmar, Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam, Malaysia, Indonesia, Philippines, northern Australia.

Habitat

Forest and thickets, usually up to elevations of 800 metres, but to 1,350 metres in New Guinea[].

Properties

Medicinal Rating
Habit	Evergreen Climber
Height	20.00 m
Pollinators	Flies
Cultivation Status	Wild

Cultivation Details

Prefers a well-drained, humus-rich, loamy soil and a position in full sun or partial shade[].
The flowers of many species in this genus form an intricate trap for pollinating insects. The insects are tempted to an area of the flower where they are unable to grip and they slide down into the utricle - downward pointing hairs prevent them climbing out[]. The trap helps to ensure the fertilization of the flowers and the insects are eventually released[].

Edible Uses

None known

Medicinal

The powdered roots are used as a tonic, carminative, stomachic and emmenagogue[, , ]. They are used in the treatment of various digestive disorders including colic, gastritis, enteritis, diarrhoea, dysentery and food poisoning, as well as other disorders such as rheumatism, oedema and dysmenorrhoea. They are also said to be a very efficient remedy for infantile tympanites if they are first pulverized and then applied to the abdomen[, ]. Combined with other herbs (no details given), the root is said to be a remedy for malaria[].

The pounded leaves are applied to the head to treat fever[]. Ground with Curcuma they are warmed and applied externally to treat swollen limbs, colic and skin diseases[].

The roots may be collected throughout the year, but preferably in autumn. They are sun-dried or heat-dried before use[].

Other Uses

None known

Propagation

Seed - pre-soak for 48 hours in warm water and surface sow Germinates best at a temperature of 25 - 30°c[].
Softwood cuttings[].

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