In traditional Chinese medicine, extracts derived from the roots of the medicinal vine Tripterygium wilfordii Hook F (commonly known as lei gong teng or thunder god vine) have long been used for inflammatory conditions. This vine-like plant is indigenous to large regions of southern China and has been part of traditional herbal practice for more than 2,000 years.
Findings from small clinical studies suggest that Tripterygium wilfordii extracts may provide benefit in certain inflammatory and autoimmune conditions. Historically, Chinese practitioners have used both crude preparations and refined extracts of the plant. While much of the early clinical experience was based on uncontrolled studies and anecdotal reports, more recent controlled clinical trials have supported the potential effectiveness of Tripterygium wilfordii in conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis and other autoimmune disorders.
