Thunder god vine is an herbal remedy that has been used for hundreds of years in traditional Chinese medicine. The Chinese medicine name for thunder god vine is lei gong teng. It’s botanical name is Tripterygium wilfordii.1 It’s a perennial vine native to Japan, Korea, China and Taiwan.1 2 Thunder god vine benefits come from the root extract of the vine. As a natural remedy, thunder god vine is available in a powder form. To prepare the vine as a natural remedy, the extract is taken from the peeled root of the plant. The other parts of the plant including the leaves and flowers are not used in preparing this traditional medicine as they are poisonous if ingested.1 2 3
Thunder god vine benefits have been studied for their use in treating many conditions, including autoimmune disorders. Thunder god vine contains a unique compound called triptolide, which is believed to offer powerful health benefits. The active compounds found in the root extract offer thunder god vine benefits like:1 2 3
Thunder god vine uses for health include being a natural remedy for the following conditions:
Thunder god vine side effects can include skin rashes, hair loss, nausea, headaches and menstrual changes. There are other potentially dangerous thunder god vine side effects. Thunder god vine can be poisonous if taken incorrectly. It’s important to consult a professional herbalist before taking thunder god vine.1 2