Uncaria rhynchophylla
Family: Rubiaceae
What it is like
Uncaria rhynchophylla is a CLIMBER. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs). Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils. 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.
Height (m): 0
Where it is found
Woodland in central and southern Japan.
E. Asia - China, Japan.
Conservation Status:
Countries/locations it is found in
How it is used
Food
Rating: 0
Medicine
Rating: 2
The curved thorns on the stems are antispasmodic, carminative, febrifuge and hepatic. A decoction is used in the treatment of infantile convulsions, headaches, dizziness, hypertension and apoplexy. The decoction should not be overcooked.
Antidiarrhoeal: Provides symptomatic relief for diarrhoea. Also see Astringent.
Antiemetic: Prevents vomiting.
Antispasmodic: Relaxes muscular spasms and cramps, calming nervous irritation.
Carminative: Reduces flatulence and expels gas from the intestines.
Febrifuge: Reduces fevers.
Hepatic: Acts on the liver (for better or worse!).
Other
Rating:
The hollow stem can be used as a siphon.
Straw: For drinking with.
How it is grown
Not known
Propagating it: Seed -
Best place to grow: Woodland Garden Sunny Edge; Dappled Shade; Shady Edge;
Habit: Climber
Hardiness:
Growth:
Soil: Light (sandy), medium, heavy (clay)
Shade: Semi-shade, no shade
Moisture: Moist