Chinese Clematis

Botanical

What is it

Chinese clematis (Clematis chinensis, called wei ling xian in TCM) is a flowering vine whose root is used in traditional Chinese medicine for joint pain, rheumatism, and to dispel wind-dampness.

Evidence for 1 use

AI-assisted evidence assessment — talk to your doctor before relying on any single supplement.

Joint pain / rheumatism

Mixed Evidence

Traditional use and preclinical data exist; controlled human clinical evidence is lacking.

How it works

The root contains triterpenoid saponins (clematichinenosides), anemonin, and protoanemonin. Preclinical studies report anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects in animal models. Traditional use is mainly for musculoskeletal pain. Fresh Clematis species contain protoanemonin, which is irritating to skin and mucous membranes; drying or processing converts it to less irritating anemonin. Western clinical evidence is essentially absent.

Dosage

Traditional decoction: 6-9 g dried root. Modern supplement extracts vary; no standardization.

When and how to take it

No established timing. Traditional decoctions are taken twice daily.

1 commercial form

Compare the main delivery options and what they’re best suited for.

Dried root extract / decoction

Used in TCM formulas for joint and tendon complaints.

Limited PK data.

Safety

Fresh plant material is irritating. Dried/processed root used in TCM is generally tolerated at traditional doses. Long-term safety in modern populations is not well established.

Who should be cautious

Avoid in pregnancy and breastfeeding. Avoid fresh plant material.

Interactions

Insufficient data on drug interactions.

Food sources

Not a food source

Amount
N/A
%DV
—

Frequently asked questions

Is Chinese clematis safe?⌄

Fresh plant material is irritating. Dried, processed root in TCM doses appears tolerable, but modern human data is limited.

References

Chinese Clematis on Wikidata — Wikidata link

Chinese Clematis on NIH DSLD (US supplement label database) — NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database link

Research on Chinese Clematis (PubMed search) — PubMed link

Track Chinese Clematis with Pilora

Set up dose reminders, check interactions, and join the community in the Pilora iPhone app.

Coming to App Store
Evidence-based·How we grade evidence

Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This page is educational, not a substitute for personalized medical advice. Evidence grades are AI-assisted assessments — talk to your doctor before starting any new supplement, especially if you’re pregnant, breastfeeding, on medications, or managing a chronic condition.