Other names for clematis

Clematis Root
Clematis chinensis
Clematis Extract
Chinese Clematis
Clematis (unspecified)
Clematis armandii
Clematis vibalba

Synopsis of clematis

Clematis is a large genus of flowering plants in the Ranunculaceae (buttercup) family, comprising over 300 species. While many clematis species are cultivated for ornamental purposes due to their showy, vining flowers, a few species—especially Clematis vitalba, Clematis recta, and Clematis chinensis—have been used in traditional herbal medicine. Medicinal preparations typically focus on the roots or aerial parts, and are used in small, carefully prepared doses due to the plant’s natural irritant properties.

Clematis is considered a warming, stimulating, and mildly toxic herb. It contains active compounds such as protoanemonin, triterpenoid saponins, alkaloids, and flavonoids, which contribute to its anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and diuretic effects. In herbal medicine, clematis has been used primarily for joint and muscle pain, arthritis, urinary tract disorders, and skin eruptions.

Its most recognized application is in the treatment of rheumatism and neuralgia, where it has been used to help move stagnation and reduce stiffness or pain in the limbs and joints. Some modern herbalists also use clematis as a circulatory stimulant and detoxifying agent, though it must be handled cautiously due to its potential irritant nature when raw or improperly prepared.

In homeopathy and flower essence therapy, clematis is used in very dilute forms to address emotional imbalances such as dreaminess, dissociation, or lack of grounding—traits often associated with the plant’s ethereal, climbing habit.

Historical Use
In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), Clematis chinensis (known as Wei Ling Xian) has a long-standing role in dispelling wind-dampness, particularly for painful obstruction syndrome (bi syndrome)—a condition characterized by stiffness, pain, and inflammation in the joints or muscles. It is considered warming and penetrating, often used in formulas for arthritis, back pain, and sciatica, and sometimes included in topical poultices for trauma or bruising.

In European folk medicine, species like Clematis vitalba (commonly called “old man’s beard”) were used cautiously to address migraines, nerve pain, and chronic skin conditions. Infusions or tinctures were sometimes applied externally to relieve itchy or infected skin. However, due to its acrid nature and potential toxicity, it was used only under the guidance of experienced herbalists.

In Native American herbalism, clematis species were sometimes used for headaches and chest pain, with tribes such as the Blackfoot applying poultices or decoctions in small doses. These uses, too, emphasized the need for skill and restraint, as clematis can irritate mucous membranes if not properly prepared.

Today, clematis is used more cautiously in modern Western herbalism, often in topical formulations, low-dose tinctures, or homeopathic remedies. Its potent nature and narrow therapeutic window have made it more common in traditional Eastern medicine or advanced herbal practices rather than general commercial use.

Clematis is used for these health conditions

Arthritis (Traditional)
Backache (Traditional)
Bruises (healing) (Traditional)
Cuts (Traditional)
Inflammation (Traditional)
Pain (general remedies for) (Traditional)
Rheumatoid Arthritis (Traditional)
Sprains (Traditional)
Wounds and Sores (Traditional)

clematis is used to support these body systems

Joints (Traditional)
Urinary System (Traditional)

Products containing clematis

We currently have no products on Vitabase that contain this ingredient.