Thunder God Vine Chinese Herb
Thunder God Vine (Lei Gong Teng): A Bitter Herb for Expelling Wind, Relieving Pain, and Reducing Inflammation
Introduction
Thunder god vine, known as Lei Gong Teng (雷公藤) in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), is extremely bitter and toxic, with cold properties. It is valued for expelling wind, resolving toxins, reducing inflammation, and alleviating severe pain. It is especially used in cases of rheumatoid arthritis, swelling, and skin conditions caused by toxic heat. Due to its strong and potentially dangerous nature, it is usually reserved for stubborn, severe conditions under close supervision.
What Is Thunder God Vine?
Lei Gong Teng comes from the root of Tripterygium wilfordii, a perennial vine native to China. In TCM, it is classified as bitter, acrid, and very cold, entering the Liver, Spleen, and Kidney meridians. Its drastic nature allows it to break up obstruction, cool inflammation, and relieve painful swelling, but it must be used with great caution due to toxicity.
Health Benefits of Thunder God Vine
Expels wind and dampness – Relieves joint pain, swelling, and stiffness in chronic arthritis.
Clears heat and resolves toxins – Applied in skin diseases such as eczema and psoriasis.
Reduces inflammation – Used in modern practice for autoimmune and inflammatory disorders.
Relieves pain – Effective in easing severe pain from wind-damp obstruction.
How to Use Thunder God Vine
Decoction – Traditionally boiled for external washes, never for casual internal use.
Extracts or capsules – Modern preparations are strictly controlled for dosage.
Topical use – Applied externally for joint pain and skin issues, avoiding ingestion unless prescribed by a specialist.
Where to Buy Thunder God Vine
TCM pharmacies – Sometimes available in controlled preparations.
Herbal suppliers – Only purchase from reputable sources with clear safety labeling.
Look for: processed forms (capsules, standardized extracts) rather than raw roots, as raw parts are highly toxic.
Are There Any Side Effects?
Yes. Thunder god vine is highly toxic if improperly used. Overuse or misuse can cause nausea, vomiting, infertility, liver or kidney damage, and even fatal poisoning. It should never be taken by pregnant women, and only under strict guidance from a licensed practitioner.
Conclusion
Thunder god vine (Lei Gong Teng) is a bitter, cold, and toxic herb in TCM that powerfully expels wind, reduces inflammation, and resolves toxins. While it has significant therapeutic value for autoimmune and inflammatory conditions, its danger means it must only be used with professional supervision.
FAQ
Can thunder god vine help arthritis? – Yes, it is traditionally used for rheumatoid arthritis and joint swelling, but only under strict medical guidance.
Is it safe to use long-term? – No, long-term use carries high risk of toxicity.
Can I prepare it at home? – No, raw thunder god vine is unsafe. Only use standardized, professional preparations.