Ji Xue Teng

Millettia reticulata

Physical Characteristics

Millettia reticulata is a deciduous Climber growing to 5 m (16ft 5in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 8. It is in flower from June to August, and the seeds ripen from August to November. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. It can fix Nitrogen. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers moist soil.

Distribution

E. Asia - S. China.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Sunny Edge;

Edible Uses

None known

Medicinal Uses

Emmenagogue Miscellany Oxytoxic Stomachic Tonic Ji Xue Teng is classified in Chinese herbalism as a plant that invigorates the blood. It is used mainly to treat menstrual problems, relieving pain and normalizing an irregular or absent cycle[254]. The roots and the vines are emmenagogue and stomachic[147]. A decoction is used in the treatment of stomach aches, breathlessness, anaemia in women, menstrual irregularities, vaginal discharge (bloody discharge and leucorrhoea), numbness and paralysis, backache and pain in the knees, seminal emission, gonorrhoea and stomach ache[147, 176]. The plant is used as a tonic to induce the growth of red blood cells[147, 218]. The plant contains the antitumour compound rotenone[218].

Known Hazards

None known