Herbarium of the Ancients — Detailed Notebook

Kadsura

Please 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: This plant remains poorly documented outside its traditional Asian context; its use should be supervised by a healthcare professional or qualified herbalist. Strictly avoid during pregnancy or breastfeeding, due to insufficient safety data. Do not combine with ongoing medication without medical advice, as interactions cannot be excluded (particularly with hepatic or hormonal treatments). Do not administer to children.

Decoction — Dried stem and root

Traditional Kadsura stem decoction

In Chinese tradition, pieces of dried stem were boiled extensively in water to extract the active principles. This preparation was reserved for occasional and supervised use, never daily without a practitioner's advice. Dosage must be validated with a healthcare professional or recognized pharmacopoeia before use.

Powder — Dried root reduced to powder

Root powder

The dried root was sometimes finely ground to be incorporated into traditional compound preparations, often in combination with other plants according to local recipes. Professional advice is essential before any use. Dosage must be validated with a healthcare professional or recognized pharmacopoeia before use.

Where to find it

Obtaining the plant

Kadsura grows wild in the forests of Southeast Asia and southern China; in France, it is found only rarely, in the form of imported preparations from a few herbalist shops specialized in Chinese plants.

Harvest season

When to harvest it

Traditionally, the stem and root are harvested in autumn, when the sap descends and the plant's principles are considered most concentrated.

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