Chinese herb thunder god vine (Tirpterygium wilforii), kills p. cancer cells...also aspirin use delays aging

[Dreamwalker.]

http://medicalxpress.com/news/2014-07-chinese-herbal-pancreatic-cancer-cells.html

"extract of the Chinese herb thunder god vine (Tirpterygium wilforii), suppresses GRP78, eventually leading to pancreatic cancer cell death."

http://medicalxpress.com/news/2014-07-cancer-aspirin-affect-aging-genes.html

"age-related decay of gene markers can be slowed down by the regular use of aspirin"

Edited July 2, 2014 by Dreamwalker

[Scarecrow]

chinese medicine says:

 

Traditionally, lei gong teng dispels wind and dampness, and is usually used to treat bi zheng (painful obstruction syndrome). Lei gong teng relieves pain and reduces swelling in patients who have swollen joints and difficulty moving. It can be used alone or with other antirheumatic herbs.

This herb is also known as qi bu si, literally, "seven steps to death," implying that it is extremely toxic. Because of its toxicity, the daily dose should be kept between five and 12 grams, with a maximum of 15 grams. Classic texts specifically instructed users to peel and discard the root bark of this herb before decocting. In addition, lei gong teng should be cooked for at least 60 minutes before the addition of other herbs, then cooked for another 15 minutes. Prolonged decoction (between one and two hours) is recommended to decrease its toxicity. Side-effects are minimal when this herb is prescribed following the proper dosage and preparation.

Lei gong teng is contraindicated in pregnancy. It should be used with caution in geriatric and pediatric patients. It should also be used with caution for patients with heart, stomach and spleen disorders. Finally, lei gong teng is toxic, and should not be used by patients who have compromised hepatic functions.

(from http://www.acupuncturetoday.com/archives2004/jan/01chen.html - pharmacological information also available)

it's considered a cold medicinal that primarily enters the liver channel. because it is cold in nature, it can injure the stomach's function, and is therefore also contraindicated for anybody with weak digestive function. it is also used topically to deal with parasites and toxins - for example maggots infesting a wound, or to detoxify a rat or snake bite (Chen & Chen - Chinese Medical Herbology & Pharmacology).

in general, toxic herbs should not be used for prolonged periods of time (although if it cures cancer, i suppose there are bigger problems to worry about)