Ji Xue Teng

What It Is

Ji Xue Teng, known in English as Spatholobus stem or Spatholobus suberectus Dunn, is a woody climbing vine native to China and Southeast Asia. It is a traditional Chinese medicinal herb that has been used for centuries, primarily in the form of its dried vine stem. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), Ji Xue Teng is classified as an herb that “invigorates the blood” and “regulates menstruation.” The name “Ji Xue Teng” literally means “chicken’s blood vine,” referring to the reddish color of the sap found in the stem, which symbolizes vitality and blood nourishment.

How It Works

From a Traditional Chinese Medicine perspective, Ji Xue Teng promotes blood circulation, nourishes the blood, and relaxes the tendons. It is often prescribed for conditions related to blood deficiency and stagnation, such as menstrual irregularities, amenorrhea (absence of menstruation), numbness of the limbs, or general fatigue.

From a modern pharmacological perspective, research indicates that Ji Xue Teng contains a range of bioactive compounds, including flavonoids, saponins, and phenolic compounds, which contribute to its effects. These constituents are thought to exert hematopoietic (blood-forming), anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and neuroprotective properties.

It may stimulate the production of red blood cells and improve microcirculation, thereby enhancing oxygen and nutrient delivery to tissues. Some studies also suggest that Ji Xue Teng can modulate immune function and help protect against oxidative stress, which is a contributing factor to cellular aging and inflammation.

Why It’s Important

Ji Xue Teng holds a valuable place in both traditional and modern herbal medicine due to its broad range of systemic benefits:

1. Blood Health: It supports red blood cell production and helps improve anemia-related symptoms, such as dizziness, pallor, and fatigue.
2. Women’s Health: Traditionally used to regulate menstrual cycles and relieve menstrual pain, it addresses both “blood deficiency” and “stagnation,” which are key concepts in TCM gynecology.
3. Musculoskeletal and Neurological Support: By improving blood flow and nourishing muscles and tendons, Ji Xue Teng is used to treat numbness, weakness, or joint pain—particularly those associated with poor circulation or recovery from injury.
4. General Vitality and Aging: Because of its antioxidant properties, it helps combat oxidative stress, promoting general well-being and slowing cellular aging.

Thus, Ji Xue Teng is considered an important “tonic herb” for maintaining vitality, especially in women and older adults, or in those recovering from chronic illness.

Considerations

While Ji Xue Teng is generally regarded as safe when used appropriately, there are several considerations to keep in mind:

• Contraindications: It should be avoided by individuals with conditions involving excessive menstrual bleeding, bleeding disorders, or those taking anticoagulant medications, as it can enhance blood circulation and potentially increase bleeding risk.
• Pregnancy and Lactation: The herb is traditionally not recommended during pregnancy due to its blood-invigorating properties, which may influence uterine contractions.
• Dosage and Form: Ji Xue Teng is often used in decoction (boiled in water), tincture, or capsule form. Dosage varies based on preparation and individual constitution, and should ideally be supervised by a qualified practitioner.
• Interactions: Potential interactions may occur with blood-thinning drugs (e.g., warfarin, aspirin) or other herbs that affect circulation. Combining such substances should be done with caution.
• Quality and Source: As with many herbal medicines, product quality varies. Ensuring proper sourcing—from reputable suppliers with standardized extraction processes—is essential to avoid contamination or adulteration.