Texas Dutchman's Pipe

Aristolochia reticulata

Physical Characteristics

Aristolochia reticulata is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.4 m (1ft 4in). It is in flower from May to July. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Flies. Suitable for: medium (loamy) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil.

Distribution

Southern N. America - Arkansas, Louisiana, Oklahoma and Texas.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Dappled Shade;

Edible Uses

None known

Medicinal Uses

Aromatic Bitter Diaphoretic Stimulant Stomachic The root is aromatic, bitter, diaphoretic, stimulant and stomachic[4, 61]. The dried rhizome of Aristolochia reticulata is sometimes sold as serpentary for the treatment of snakebites[274]. It is used as a tonic to calm the stomach, promote urination, and increase perspiration. The active ingredient is aristolochic acid, a potent gastric irritant that, in large doses, can cause respiratory paralysis[270].

Known Hazards

We have no specific details for this species but most members of this genus have poisonous roots and stems[179]. The plant contains aristolochic acid, this has received rather mixed reports on its toxicity. According to one report aristolochic acid stimulates white blood cell activity and speeds the healing of wounds, but is also carcinogenic and damaging to the kidneys[254]. Another report says that it is an active antitumour agent but is too toxic for clinical use[218], causing gastric irritation and, in large doses, respiratry failure[274]. Another report says that aristolochic acid has anti-cancer properties and can be used in conjunction with chemotherapy and radiotherapy and that it also increases the cellular immunity and phagocytosis function of the phagocytic cells[176].