Tripterygium wilfordii, this vine has long been used in traditional Chinese, Japanese, and Korean medicine, as the vine is native to those regions. Only recently has thunder god vine been introduced to the rest of the world. One of the most important benefits of thunder god vine is its impact on the immune system. It doesn’t necessarily boost the immune system, but rather regulates it, making it very important for those suffering from autoimmune diseases.
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Currently, thunder god vine is promoted for use orally (by mouth) for rheumatoid arthritis, multiple sclerosis, Crohn’s disease, lupus, psoriasis, fever, and other conditions. It is also promoted for use topically (applied to the skin) for rheumatoid arthritis. Studies suggest that triptolide and celastrol are two of the active compounds found in it that have been shown to induce apoptosis in human breast cancer cells as well as prostate cancer cell lines.
- Thunder god vine extract has been directly connected to hormone regulation within the body, which can diminish the intensity of menstruation and keep our bodies functioning normally, particularly if you suffer from a diagnosed hormonal imbalance.
- The natural anti-inflammatory activity of thunder god vine extract can help with arthritis, gout, respiratory conditions, and gastrointestinal inflammation
Its active compounds also kill and reduce the activity cells that invade the joints and cause inflammation and pain in arthritis. And they prevent bone destruction by blocking harmful proteins (such as RANKL). Thanks to its ability to lower immune over-activation, thunder god vine may help with psoriasis. According to two large analyses, this herb and its component triptolide improve psoriasis (30 clinical trials and almost 2.5k people)
In several analyses of over 200 studies and 16k people with kidney disease, thunder god vine improved kidney function, prevented disease worsening, and reduced kidney damage markers (high urine protein, blood creatine, and blood urea levels). In a clinical trial on 16 people with Crohn’s disease, thunder god vine improved ulcers and reduced inflammation. 60 mg/day was used for 12 weeks.
In a small trial on 18 people with HIV receiving conventional therapy, thunder god vine improved their immune response (improved CD4 cell recovery by preventing CD8 activation). It was given at 10 mg, 3x/day
Word of Caution: The side effects can be intense and can interact with other medications. If you begin suffering from extreme side effects, discontinue use immediately.
CONDITIONS OF USE AND IMPORTANT INFORMATION: This information is meant to supplement, not replace advice from your doctor or healthcare provider and is not meant to cover all possible uses, precautions, interactions or adverse effects. This information may not fit your specific health circumstances. Never delay or disregard seeking professional medical advice from your doctor or other qualified health care provider because of something you have read on our website. You should always speak with your doctor or health care professional before you start, stop, or change any prescribed part of your health care plan or treatment and to determine what course of therapy is right for you.