Paederia foetida
Synopsis
Paederia foetida, commonly known as skunkvine, stinkvine, or Chinese fever vine, is a perennial climbing plant native to South and Southeast Asia. It is part of the Rubiaceae family and is known for its distinctive strong, sulfur-like odor—especially when the leaves are crushed. Despite the unpleasant smell, it has been highly regarded in traditional medicine systems for its broad therapeutic effects. The plant contains iridoid glycosides (like paederoside), flavonoids, alkaloids, essential oils, and sulfur compounds, which contribute to its medicinal properties.
Traditionally, Paederia foetida has been used to treat gastrointestinal disorders, rheumatic pain, inflammation, and respiratory issues. It exhibits carminative, antispasmodic, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and laxative actions. The leaves are typically consumed as a vegetable in some regions or brewed as a decoction to relieve gas, bloating, and abdominal discomfort. It is also used to stimulate appetite, address indigestion, and reduce intestinal worms.
In musculoskeletal medicine, poultices made from the leaves are applied externally to relieve joint pain, sprains, and swelling, especially in cases of arthritis and gout. Some modern studies suggest that extracts of Paederia foetida may have antioxidant, hepatoprotective, and antidiabetic potential.
Because of its rich sulfur content and pungent volatile oils, the plant is also used in detoxification therapies, promoting bowel movements and clearing internal heat or stagnation in traditional models of health.
Historical Use in Medicine
Paederia foetida has a long-standing role in Ayurvedic, Unani, and traditional Southeast Asian medicine, where it is often referred to as Prasarini in Sanskrit. In Ayurveda, the herb is especially used for treating rheumatic disorders and vata imbalances. Classical Ayurvedic texts recommend it in formulas for joint stiffness, nerve pain, and paralysis, often in the form of medicated oils, powders, or decoctions.
In folk medicine across Bangladesh, India, Nepal, Thailand, and Indonesia, both the aerial parts and roots of the plant are employed for digestive complaints, fevers, and intestinal worms. It is also considered useful in treating female reproductive conditions, such as delayed menstruation and postpartum recovery, often prepared as a tonic with other herbs.
In traditional Vietnamese and Chinese medicine, Paederia foetida was historically classified as a warming herb used to dispel wind-dampness, a syndrome linked to joint disorders and fatigue. The plant’s unpleasant smell was thought to drive out pathogenic factors from the body—echoing a common belief in many cultures that odoriferous herbs had purging or cleansing effects.
Today, Paederia foetida is still in use in rural medicine and increasingly in herbal formulations targeting joint health, digestion, and liver support. Its strong traditional reputation and growing body of pharmacological research continue to reinforce its value in natural medicine systems.
Body Systems
Digestive System (Science)
Gastrointestinal Tract (Science)
Intestinal System (Science)
Joints (Science)
Liver (Science)