Botanical Overview
Akebia quinata, commonly known as chocolate vine or five-leaf akebia, belongs to the family Lardizabalaceae. Native to East Asia, including China, Japan, and Korea, it is valued in traditional herbal medicine. The primarily used parts include the stems, fruit, and leaves.
Energetics
Akebia quinata is considered to have a neutral temperature and moisture nature with bitter and sweet tastes. It is generally relaxing in tonicity.
Primary Actions
- Diuretic
- Anti-inflammatory
- Spasmolytic
Indications
Western
- Urinary difficulty
- Edema
- Abdominal pain
- Constipation
Syndromes
- Urinary tract infections
- Dysuria
- Bowel irregularity
TCM
- Urinary retention
- Painful urination
- Abdominal fullness
- Menstrual cramps
Syndromes
- Damp-heat in urinary bladder
- Blood stasis in reproductive system
- Constipation due to dryness
Ayurveda
No traditional indications documented.
Unani
No traditional indications documented.
Constituents & Mechanisms
Contains triterpenoids, flavonoids, saponins, alkaloids, and phenolic compounds which contribute to its diuretic, anti-inflammatory, and spasmolytic effects.
Dosage & Preparations
- Decoction of stems: 10-15 g daily
- Fruit eaten fresh or dried
- Extracts used in traditional formulas
Safety & Contraindications
Akebia quinata is generally safe when used in traditional doses but should be used cautiously during pregnancy due to insufficient safety data. Potential additive effects with diuretics warrant caution.
Astrological Correspondences
No well-supported planetary or elemental rulers identified in literature.
Selected References
- Akebia quinata profile, PFAF
- Chinese Herbal Medicine Materia Medica, 3rd edition – Bensky et al.
- Phytochemical and pharmacological studies of Akebia quinata, Zhang et al.
- Medicinal Plants of East Asia