Herbarium of the Ancients — Detailed Record

Clematis paniculata

Read before use: the information below describes traditional and informational uses — it does not replace the advice of a healthcare professional. In case of doubt, pregnancy, breastfeeding, ongoing treatment, or use in children, seek advice before use.

Enhanced precautions for this plant: All Clematis species contain protoanemonin, an irritating and potentially toxic substance when fresh: never consume the plant raw internally. External use directly on skin or mucous membranes may cause irritation, burns, or blisters; always proceed with extreme caution and never on damaged skin. This plant is not recommended for children, pregnant or breastfeeding women, in the absence of sufficient safety data. As this plant is poorly documented for internal use, any therapeutic use must be carried out under the supervision of a healthcare professional or qualified herbalist.

Compress — Fresh leaves

External application of crushed leaves

According to tradition, a few fresh leaves were lightly crushed then briefly applied to the affected area, while monitoring for any skin reaction. This practice should be considered with great caution due to the irritating power of the fresh plant. Dosage should be validated with a healthcare professional or recognized pharmacopoeia before use.

Where to find it

Sourcing the plant

It is found in the wild in forests and woodland edges of New Zealand; it is sometimes cultivated as an ornamental, but rarely offered in herbal shops due to its restricted traditional use.

Harvest season

When to harvest

Flowering occurs in the southern spring (August to October), the period when leaves and flowers were traditionally harvested.

← Back to record