Herb Root (根 gēn)

Lei Gong Teng

Thunder god vine · 雷公藤

Tripterygium wilfordii Hook. f. · Radix et Rhizoma Tripterygii

Also known as: Huang Teng (黄藤), Duan Chang Cao (断肠草)

Lei Gong Teng (Thunder god vine) plant

Images shown are for educational purposes only

Thunder god vine is a powerful but highly toxic herb used in Chinese medicine primarily for stubborn joint pain, swelling, and autoimmune conditions. It has strong anti-inflammatory and immune-suppressing properties, making it clinically significant for rheumatoid arthritis and certain kidney diseases. Because of its extreme toxicity, it must only be used under close medical supervision with careful dosage monitoring.

Category Wind-Damp-Heat clearing herbs (祛风湿热药) Toxic herbs requiring caution (有毒药)
Therapeutic focus Joint and Muscle Health Autoimmune Conditions Skin Health Kidney Health

TCM Properties

Temperature

Cold

Taste

Bitter (苦 kǔ), Acrid / Pungent (辛 xīn)

Channels entered

Liver, Kidneys

Parts used

Root (根 gēn)

Available in our store
View in Store
From $45.00

Educational content • Consult qualified TCM practitioners for diagnosis and treatment

What This Herb Does

Every herb has a specific set of actions — here's what Lei Gong Teng does in the body, explained in both everyday and TCM terms

Therapeutic focus

In practical terms, Lei Gong Teng is primarily used to support these areas of health:

Joint and Muscle Health Autoimmune Conditions Skin Health Kidney Health

TCM Actions

In TCM terminology, these are the specific therapeutic actions that Lei Gong Teng performs to restore balance in the body:

Dispels Wind-Dampness Invigorates Blood and Unblocks the Channels and Collaterals Reduces Swelling and Alleviates Pain Kills Parasites and Resolves Toxicity Clears Heat

How these actions work

'Dispels Wind-Dampness' (祛风除湿) means this herb drives out the pathogenic influences of Wind and Dampness that lodge in the joints and muscles, causing pain, stiffness, and swelling. This is its primary traditional use, particularly for stubborn, chronic joint conditions (called 'obstruction patterns' or Bì syndrome in TCM) where the joints are hot, red, and swollen. Because Lei Gong Teng is cold in nature, it is especially suited for the 'Heat-Bi' type where inflammation is prominent.

'Invigorates Blood and unblocks the collaterals' (活血通络) means it promotes blood circulation through the fine network of channels that supply the joints and limbs. When Blood flow stagnates in these areas, it causes persistent pain and restricted movement. By moving Blood through the collaterals, Lei Gong Teng helps relieve pain and restore mobility in conditions like rheumatoid arthritis.

'Reduces swelling and alleviates pain' (消肿止痛) refers to this herb's potent ability to bring down joint and tissue swelling and provide pain relief. Modern research attributes this largely to its strong anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive properties, making it effective for autoimmune conditions with significant swelling.

'Kills parasites and resolves toxins' (杀虫解毒) describes its traditional external use for skin conditions like scabies, ringworm, and boils. The herb's highly toxic compounds can 'fight poison with poison' (以毒攻毒), killing parasites and clearing toxic skin lesions. Historically, it was also used as a plant-based insecticide.

Critical safety note: Lei Gong Teng is classified as greatly toxic (大毒) in Chinese medicine. All parts of the plant are poisonous, with the bark being the most toxic. It must only be used under strict professional supervision with careful dosage control and monitoring. Ingesting even small amounts of the leaves or bark can cause serious organ damage or death.

Patterns Addressed

In TCM, symptoms cluster into recognizable patterns of disharmony. Lei Gong Teng is used to help correct these specific patterns.

Why Lei Gong Teng addresses this pattern

In Wind-Damp-Heat Bi syndrome, pathogenic Wind, Dampness, and Heat invade the joints and channels, causing red, hot, swollen, and painful joints with restricted movement. Lei Gong Teng's bitter, acrid, and cold properties make it especially effective for this pattern. Its cold nature directly counteracts the Heat component, its bitter taste dries Dampness and descends, and its acrid taste disperses Wind and moves stagnation. By entering the Liver channel (which governs the sinews) and the Kidney channel (which governs bones), it reaches the musculoskeletal system where the pathology resides. Its ability to invigorate Blood and unblock the collaterals addresses the Blood stasis that commonly accompanies chronic obstruction patterns.

A practitioner would look for one or more of these signs

Moving Pain

Red, hot, swollen joint pain that is worse with heat

Skin Swelling

Persistent joint swelling that is difficult to resolve

Weakness And Stiffness

Joint stiffness with restricted movement

Skin Inflammation

Chronic inflammatory joint conditions

Commonly Used For

These are conditions where Lei Gong Teng is frequently used — but only when they arise from the specific patterns it addresses, not in all cases

Arises from: Wind-Damp Blood Stasis in the Channels and Collaterals

TCM Interpretation

TCM understands rheumatoid arthritis primarily as a form of Bi syndrome (obstruction pattern) where Wind, Dampness, and Heat invade and lodge in the joints. In the early stages, these external pathogens block the flow of Qi and Blood through the channels, causing joint pain, swelling, and stiffness. Over time, the prolonged blockage leads to Blood stasis and phlegm accumulation, which accounts for the joint deformity and nodules seen in advanced disease. The Liver and Kidney systems are central to this condition because the Liver governs the sinews (tendons and ligaments) and the Kidneys govern the bones. When these organ systems are weakened, the body becomes more vulnerable to pathogenic invasion of the joints.

Why Lei Gong Teng Helps

Lei Gong Teng is considered one of the most effective single herbs for rheumatoid arthritis in Chinese medicine. Its cold nature and bitter taste directly clear the Heat and dry the Dampness that drive joint inflammation. Its acrid taste disperses Wind from the channels, while its Blood-invigorating action breaks through the stasis that causes chronic pain and stiffness. Entering the Liver and Kidney channels, it reaches the sinews and bones where RA pathology resides. From a modern perspective, its active compounds (triptolide and celastrol) suppress the overactive immune response that characterizes RA, reducing inflammation and slowing joint destruction. However, because of its significant toxicity, it is typically used alongside Qi-tonifying herbs like Huang Qi and Blood-nourishing herbs like Dang Gui to protect the body from its harsh nature.

Also commonly used for

Lupus

Used as an immunosuppressive agent, often in extract or tablet form

Eczema

Particularly stubborn or chronic cases with prominent inflammation

Glomerulonephritis

IgA nephropathy and other immune-mediated kidney inflammation

Ankylosing Spondylitis

Autoimmune spinal inflammation

Crohn's Disease

Used in some clinical trials for inflammatory bowel disease management

Herb Properties

Every herb has an inherent temperature, taste, and affinity for specific channels — these properties determine how it interacts with the body

Temperature

Cold

Taste

Bitter (苦 kǔ), Acrid / Pungent (辛 xīn)

Channels Entered

Liver Kidneys

Parts Used

Root (根 gēn)

Dosage & Preparation

These are general dosage guidelines for Lei Gong Teng — always follow your practitioner's recommendation, as dosages vary based on the formula and your individual condition

Standard dosage

10-25g (root woody core only, decocted)

Maximum dosage

Do not exceed 25g of the root woody core in decoction. This is already at the upper limit. All doses carry significant toxicity risk and require practitioner supervision with regular organ function monitoring.

Dosage notes

The standard decoction dose is 10 to 25g of the root woody core ONLY (bark must be completely removed). The root must be decocted by slow fire for at least 2 to 4 hours with the pot uncovered, which helps volatilize some toxic components. When using powdered herb in capsules, the daily dose is 1.5 to 4.5g. Treatment courses should generally not exceed 3 months continuously. If no therapeutic effect is seen after 1 to 2 months, the herb should be discontinued rather than the dose increased. During treatment, regular monitoring of liver function (ALT, AST), kidney function (BUN, creatinine, urinalysis), complete blood count, and ECG is essential. Treatment must be stopped immediately if abnormal liver enzymes, proteinuria, blood cell decreases, or cardiac abnormalities appear. Older and weaker patients require reduced doses. Only one Lei Gong Teng preparation should be used at a time; never combine different Lei Gong Teng products. The herb is often combined with Gan Cao (licorice) in a ratio of approximately 60:9 (Lei Gong Teng to Gan Cao) to reduce toxicity, or with Bai Shao (white peony) to protect the liver.

Preparation

The root bark must be completely stripped before use, as the bark contains the highest concentration of toxic alkaloids. Only the inner woody core (木质部) is used medicinally. The prepared root must then be decocted by slow fire (文火) for 2 to 4 hours with the pot lid removed (不加盖), which allows certain volatile toxic components to dissipate. This prolonged, open-pot decoction is essential for safety and must not be shortened. Traditional processing methods to reduce toxicity include wine-frying (酒炙), vinegar-frying (醋炙), and co-decoction with Gan Cao (甘草, licorice) or Lai Fu Zi (莱菔子, radish seed).

Processing Methods

In TCM, the same herb can be prepared in different ways to change its effects — here's how processing alters what Lei Gong Teng does

Processing method

The root is thoroughly stripped of both inner and outer bark layers, leaving only the woody core (木质部). The peeled root is then sliced and dried.

How it changes properties

Removing the bark dramatically reduces toxicity, as the bark contains the highest concentration of toxic alkaloids and diterpenes. The woody core retains the therapeutic anti-inflammatory and immune-modulating compounds at safer levels. The core properties (cold, bitter, acrid) remain the same but with significantly reduced risk of organ damage.

When to use this form

This is the standard form for internal use. The unpeeled root is considered too toxic for oral administration. Even with the bark removed, careful dosage control and prolonged decoction (1-2 hours over low heat) are required.

Common Herb Pairs

These ingredients are traditionally combined with Lei Gong Teng for enhanced therapeutic effect

Gan Cao
Gan Cao Lei Gong Teng 60g : Gan Cao 9g (approximately 7:1)

Gan Cao (licorice root) is sweet and moderate in nature, which counterbalances Lei Gong Teng's intense bitterness and toxicity. The sweet, harmonizing nature of Gan Cao moderates the harsh, toxic properties of Lei Gong Teng, reducing gastrointestinal irritation and liver damage while preserving the therapeutic anti-inflammatory effect. This is the most widely documented toxicity-reducing pairing for Lei Gong Teng.

When to use: Whenever Lei Gong Teng is used internally, Gan Cao should be considered as a standard pairing to buffer its toxicity. Especially important for patients with weak digestion or those requiring longer treatment courses.

Bai Shao
Bai Shao 1:1 to 1:2 (Lei Gong Teng : Bai Shao)

Bai Shao (white peony root) is sour, cooling, and nourishing to the Blood and Yin. Its astringent, restraining nature helps counteract Lei Gong Teng's excessively dispersing quality, preventing it from overdraining the body's resources. Bai Shao also protects the Liver from Lei Gong Teng's hepatotoxicity through its Liver-nourishing and Liver-softening properties.

When to use: When using Lei Gong Teng for joint conditions in patients showing signs of Blood or Yin deficiency (dry skin, pale complexion), or when there is concern about liver damage during extended treatment.

Huang Qi
Huang Qi Huang Qi 15-30g : Lei Gong Teng 10-15g

Huang Qi (astragalus) is warm and strongly tonifies Qi, counterbalancing Lei Gong Teng's cold nature and its tendency to damage the body's righteous Qi through its toxicity. This pairing protects the Spleen and boosts immune resilience even while Lei Gong Teng suppresses excessive immune activity, creating a more balanced therapeutic effect.

When to use: For chronic conditions requiring longer-term use of Lei Gong Teng, especially in patients who are constitutionally weak or showing fatigue, poor appetite, or susceptibility to infection from the herb's immunosuppressive effects.

Nu Zhen Zi
Nu Zhen Zi 1:1 to 1:2 (Lei Gong Teng : Nu Zhen Zi)

Nu Zhen Zi (ligustrum fruit) nourishes Liver and Kidney Yin with its sweet, cool nature, directly counteracting the Yin-damaging tendency of Lei Gong Teng's bitter coldness. Research has shown this pairing reduces liver, bone marrow, and reproductive toxicity of Lei Gong Teng while maintaining its immunosuppressive therapeutic effects.

When to use: When using Lei Gong Teng for kidney disease or autoimmune conditions where there are signs of Liver-Kidney Yin deficiency, or when reproductive toxicity is a concern.

Comparable Ingredients

These ingredients have overlapping uses — here's how to tell them apart

Qin Jiao
Lei Gong Teng vs Qin Jiao

Both herbs dispel Wind-Dampness and are suited for Bi syndrome with Heat. However, Qin Jiao is mild, non-toxic, and gently clears Damp-Heat from the channels while also moistening the intestines. It is appropriate for common Wind-Damp-Heat Bi in patients of any constitution. Lei Gong Teng is far more potent and has strong immunosuppressive effects, making it suited for severe, stubborn autoimmune joint conditions, but its extreme toxicity restricts it to cases where milder herbs have failed.

Wei Ling Xian
Lei Gong Teng vs Wei Ling Xian

Both treat Wind-Dampness with joint pain. Wei Ling Xian is acrid, salty, and warm, making it better for Wind-Cold-Damp Bi with generalized aching, while Lei Gong Teng is bitter, acrid, and cold, making it specific for Heat-Bi with red, swollen, inflamed joints. Wei Ling Xian is much safer and is a first-line herb for common Bi syndrome, whereas Lei Gong Teng is reserved for severe autoimmune conditions due to its toxicity. They are sometimes combined in formulas to treat stubborn rheumatic conditions.

Fang Ji
Lei Gong Teng vs Fang Ji

Both are bitter and cold, entering the Kidney channel, and both clear Wind-Damp-Heat from the lower body and joints. Fang Ji is particularly strong at promoting urination and reducing edema, making it the better choice for Bi syndrome with prominent lower limb swelling. Lei Gong Teng has much stronger immunosuppressive properties and is chosen for autoimmune-driven joint and kidney conditions, but carries far greater toxicity risks.

Common Substitutes & Adulterants

Related species and common adulterations to be aware of when sourcing Lei Gong Teng

Lei Gong Teng may be confused with or substituted by: 1. Kunming Shan Hai Tang (昆明山海棠, Tripterygium hypoglaucum), a closely related species sometimes classified as a subspecies or synonym of T. wilfordii. It is distributed in Yunnan, Guizhou, and Sichuan and has similar but not identical clinical effects and toxicity profile. Modern taxonomy has sometimes treated it as synonymous with T. wilfordii, but preparations from different species within the genus may vary in composition. 2. Dongbei Lei Gong Teng (东北雷公藤, Tripterygium regelii), the Northeast variety, used in northeastern China with reportedly similar efficacy but a different geographic origin. 3. Gou Wen (钩吻, Gelsemium elegans), the true "Duancaocao" or gut-breaking grass, which is an entirely different and extremely lethal plant from the Loganiaceae family. Confusion between these two plants, both sometimes called "Duan Chang Cao" in folk usage, has historically led to fatal poisonings. Authentication requires careful attention to the characteristic orange-yellow cork layer, reddish-brown phloem, and yellowish-white porous xylem on cross-section. Chemical testing for triptolide content can confirm identity.

Educational content — always consult a qualified healthcare provider or TCM practitioner before using any herb.

Toxicity Classification

Classical Chinese pharmacopoeia toxicity rating for Lei Gong Teng

Very toxic

Lei Gong Teng is classified as having "great toxicity" (大毒, dà dú). The entire plant is toxic, with the root bark containing the highest concentration of toxic compounds. The bark must be completely stripped (including inner bark and bark trapped in crevices) before any internal use. The main toxic components are diterpenoid triepoxides (especially triptolide), celastrol, and a group of sesquiterpene alkaloids (wilfordine, wilforgine, etc.). These are also the same compounds responsible for the herb's therapeutic effects, creating an extremely narrow therapeutic window. Toxicity symptoms include: severe gastrointestinal irritation (nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhea, potentially bloody stool), central nervous system damage (headache, dizziness, blurred vision, muscle tremors, convulsions), hepatotoxicity (elevated liver enzymes, hepatomegaly, jaundice, potentially liver failure), nephrotoxicity (proteinuria, hematuria, renal failure), cardiotoxicity (arrhythmias, toxic myocarditis, heart failure), bone marrow suppression (leukopenia, thrombocytopenia), and severe reproductive damage (amenorrhea, ovarian failure, sperm reduction, testicular atrophy). Ingestion of as few as 2 to 3 leaves can cause poisoning. Approximately 7g of tender shoots or 30 to 60g of root bark can be lethal. Death from acute poisoning typically occurs within 24 hours, primarily from cardiac and respiratory failure. Emergency treatment involves induced vomiting, gastric lavage, and supportive care. Traditional antidotes include fresh radish juice, lamb blood, and decoctions of black beans, mung beans, and Gan Cao (licorice). Safe clinical use requires: (1) thorough removal of all bark, using only the inner woody core; (2) prolonged decoction (at least 2 to 4 hours uncovered to volatilize some toxic components); (3) strict dose control; (4) regular monitoring of liver function, kidney function, complete blood count, and cardiac function during treatment; and (5) limiting treatment courses, generally not exceeding 3 months continuously.

Contraindications

Situations where Lei Gong Teng should not be used or requires extra caution

Avoid

Pregnancy. Lei Gong Teng is a potent toxin with documented reproductive toxicity. It can cause severe harm to the developing fetus and must never be used during pregnancy under any circumstances.

Avoid

Breastfeeding. Active toxic compounds, including triptolide and alkaloids, may transfer through breast milk and are potentially harmful to infants.

Avoid

Children and adolescents. The narrow therapeutic window and severe toxicity profile make this herb extremely dangerous for pediatric use.

Avoid

Individuals of reproductive age who plan to conceive. Lei Gong Teng causes significant reproductive damage in both sexes: ovarian failure and amenorrhea in women (up to 95% incidence at cumulative doses above 8g of glycoside extract), and reduced sperm count, sperm deformity, and testicular atrophy in men.

Avoid

Pre-existing liver disease or liver dysfunction. Lei Gong Teng is strongly hepatotoxic and can cause drug-induced hepatitis, liver necrosis, and liver failure.

Avoid

Pre-existing kidney disease or renal insufficiency. The herb can cause nephrotoxicity including proteinuria, hematuria, and acute renal failure.

Avoid

Pre-existing heart disease or cardiac insufficiency. The herb can cause toxic myocarditis, arrhythmias, and heart failure.

Avoid

Leukopenia, thrombocytopenia, or bone marrow suppression. Lei Gong Teng can further suppress blood cell production.

Avoid

Gastrointestinal ulcers or active GI bleeding. The herb causes strong irritation to the gastrointestinal mucosa.

Caution

Elderly or debilitated patients. Use only at reduced dosage under very close supervision, as toxicity risk is significantly increased.

Caution

Concurrent use of other immunosuppressants (cyclosporine, methotrexate, azathioprine, etc.). Additive immunosuppression and toxicity may result. Only combine under expert supervision with dose adjustments.

Avoid

Use of the root bark (as opposed to the peeled woody core). The bark contains the highest concentration of toxic alkaloids and must be completely removed before medicinal use.

Classical Incompatibilities

Traditional Chinese pharmacological incompatibilities — herbs or substances to avoid combining with Lei Gong Teng

Lei Gong Teng does not appear on the classical Eighteen Incompatibilities (十八反) or Nineteen Mutual Fears (十九畏) lists.

Special Populations

Important considerations for pregnancy, breastfeeding, and pediatric use

Pregnancy

Absolutely contraindicated in pregnancy. Lei Gong Teng is a potent cellular toxin with documented severe reproductive toxicity. Triptolide and related diterpenoids have direct cytotoxic effects on ovarian tissue and can cause ovarian failure. The herb's alkaloids and diterpenoids have teratogenic potential and can cause embryonic death. Animal studies show that triptolide damages germ cells. There is no safe dose during pregnancy. Women of childbearing age should have a confirmed negative pregnancy test before treatment and must use reliable contraception throughout and for a period after treatment ends.

Breastfeeding

Absolutely contraindicated during breastfeeding. The herb's toxic compounds, including triptolide, celastrol, and multiple alkaloids, are small molecules with cytotoxic properties that are likely to be transferred through breast milk. Given the extreme toxicity of these compounds (triptolide LD50 is less than 1 mg/kg in animal studies), even trace amounts in breast milk could pose serious risks to an infant. There is no data establishing a safe level of exposure for nursing infants. Breastfeeding must be discontinued if treatment with Lei Gong Teng is absolutely necessary for the mother.

Children

Lei Gong Teng is strictly contraindicated in children and adolescents. The herb has an extremely narrow therapeutic window, and its toxic effects on the reproductive system, liver, kidneys, heart, and bone marrow are especially dangerous for developing bodies. Children are more vulnerable to its toxicity due to lower body weight, immature organ function, and developing reproductive systems. No safe pediatric dosage has been established. It should never be used in the pediatric population.

Drug Interactions

If you are taking pharmaceutical medications, be aware of these potential interactions with Lei Gong Teng

Immunosuppressants (cyclosporine, methotrexate, azathioprine, tacrolimus, mycophenolate): Lei Gong Teng has potent immunosuppressive activity comparable to conventional immunosuppressants. Concurrent use may cause additive or synergistic immunosuppression, significantly increasing the risk of severe infections, bone marrow suppression, and organ toxicity. If combination therapy is used (as in some rheumatology protocols combining Tripterygium glycosides with methotrexate), doses of both agents typically need to be reduced and monitoring must be intensified.

Hepatotoxic drugs (acetaminophen/paracetamol, statins, certain antibiotics, antifungals like ketoconazole): Lei Gong Teng is strongly hepatotoxic. Combined use with other hepatotoxic medications increases the risk of liver damage. Liver function must be closely monitored.

Nephrotoxic drugs (aminoglycoside antibiotics, NSAIDs, ACE inhibitors): Given Lei Gong Teng's nephrotoxicity, concurrent use with other kidney-damaging drugs may compound renal injury.

CYP enzyme substrates and inhibitors: Research shows that Lei Gong Teng components, particularly triptolide, are metabolized through cytochrome P450 enzymes (CYP3A4 in particular). Drugs that inhibit CYP3A4 (ketoconazole, erythromycin, grapefruit juice) may increase triptolide levels and toxicity. CYP3A4 inducers may reduce therapeutic effect.

Anticoagulants and antiplatelet agents (warfarin, heparin, aspirin, clopidogrel): Lei Gong Teng can suppress platelet production and may increase bleeding risk when combined with blood-thinning medications.

Hormonal contraceptives and fertility treatments: The herb's powerful anti-fertility effects (ovarian suppression, sperm toxicity) will interfere with fertility treatments and may reduce the reliability of hormonal contraception by causing hormonal disruption.

Dietary Advice

Foods and dietary considerations when taking Lei Gong Teng

While taking Lei Gong Teng, avoid alcohol and any other hepatotoxic substances, as the herb already places significant stress on the liver. Avoid cold, raw, and hard-to-digest foods to minimize additional gastrointestinal irritation. A bland, easily digestible diet is recommended. Adequate protein and nutrient intake should be maintained to support liver and kidney recovery. Foods traditionally considered liver-protective in Chinese dietary therapy, such as mung bean soup and fresh radish (莱菔), have traditionally been used alongside Lei Gong Teng to mitigate its toxicity.

Botanical Description

Physical characteristics and morphology of the Lei Gong Teng source plant

Tripterygium wilfordii Hook. f. is a climbing or scrambling woody shrub (vine-like shrub) of the Celastraceae (staff vine) family, typically growing 1 to 3 meters tall. Its young branches are reddish-brown with 4 to 6 fine ridges, covered in dense hairs and small lenticels. The leaves are elliptic to ovate, 4 to 7.5 cm long and 3 to 4 cm wide, with finely serrated margins. The leaf tips are pointed, bases broadly wedge-shaped or rounded, with 4 to 7 pairs of lateral veins. Flowers are small, white or greenish-white, borne in terminal or axillary panicles. Fruits are three-winged samaras.

The plant grows naturally in shaded, moist mountain slopes, valleys, and stream-side thickets at elevations of 200 to 2,400 meters. It prefers slightly acidic, well-drained sandy or loamy soils (pH 5 to 6), a warm and humid environment with ample rainfall, and shelter from direct wind. It has relatively good cold tolerance and can overwinter naturally without protection, though young shoots are vulnerable to frost damage. The medicinal root is cylindrical, twisted, 0.5 to 3 cm in diameter, with an earthy yellow to yellowish-brown, rough surface.

Sourcing & Harvesting

Where Lei Gong Teng is sourced, when it's harvested or collected, and how to assess quality

Harvesting season

Roots are harvested in autumn. Leaves are collected in summer. Flowers and fruits are gathered in summer to autumn.

Primary growing regions

Primarily produced in Fujian, Zhejiang, Anhui, and Hunan provinces in China. Also found in Jiangsu, Hubei, Jiangxi, Guangxi, and Taiwan. Grows naturally in mountainous regions south of the Yangtze River at elevations of 200 to 2,400 meters, in shaded and moist habitats. The herb from Jiangxi was historically noted for being especially potent. Also distributed in Korea and Japan. There is no single dominant "daodi" (terroir) region, but Fujian and Zhejiang are the most commonly cited primary producing regions in modern materia medica sources.

Quality indicators

The medicinal root should be cylindrical, 0.5 to 3 cm in diameter, with a rough, earthy-yellow to yellowish-brown surface showing fine longitudinal grooves and ring-shaped or semi-ring cracks. Where the cork layer has peeled away, the exposed surface should be orange-yellow. The root should be hard and firm. When broken, it should produce a fibrous fracture with visible fine dust. On cross-section, the cork layer should appear orange-yellow and layered, the phloem (bark layer) should be reddish-brown, and the xylem (woody core) should be yellowish-white with clearly visible needle-eye-like pores and distinct radial lines. The root should have a faint, distinctive odor and a bitter, slightly pungent taste. The bark must be completely removed in properly processed material; any remaining bark indicates poor or dangerous preparation.

Classical Texts

Key passages from the classical Chinese medical texts that describe Lei Gong Teng and its therapeutic uses

《采药书》(Cǎi Yào Shū) by Wāng Lián Shì (Qing Dynasty)

Original: 蒸龙草即震龙根，山人呼为雷公藤，蒸酒服，治风气，合巴山虎为龙虎丹，入水药鱼，人多服即昏。

Translation: The plant called "Steamed Dragon Grass" is the "Shaking Dragon Root." Mountain people call it Lei Gong Teng. Steamed in wine and taken internally, it treats wind conditions. Combined with Ba Shan Hu it makes the Dragon-Tiger Pill. Added to water it poisons fish. If a person takes too much, they lose consciousness.

《本草纲目拾遗》(Běn Cǎo Gāng Mù Shí Yí) by Zhào Xué Mǐn (Qing Dynasty)

Original: 出江西者力大，士人采之毒鱼，凡蚌螺之属亦死，其性暴烈，以其草烟熏蚕子，则不生，养蚕家忌之，山人采熏壁虱。

Translation: The variety from Jiangxi is most potent. Locals use it to poison fish; even clams and snails perish. Its nature is violently fierce. If its smoke is used to fumigate silkworm eggs, they will not hatch, so silkworm-rearing families avoid it. Mountain people harvest it to fumigate bedbugs.

《植物名实图考》(Zhí Wù Míng Shí Tú Kǎo) by Wú Qí Jùn (Qing Dynasty)

Original: 江西、湖南极多，通呼为水莽子，根尤毒，长至尺余。俗名水莽兜，亦名黄藤，浸水如雄黄色，气极臭。园圃中渍以杀虫，用之颇亟，其叶亦毒。南赣呼为大茶叶，与断肠草无异。

Translation: It is very abundant in Jiangxi and Hunan, commonly called "Water Mang Zi." The root is especially toxic and can grow over a foot long. The folk name is "Water Mang Dou," also called "Yellow Vine." Soaked in water, it turns the color of realgar, and smells extremely foul. It is steeped in garden plots to kill insects, and used frequently. The leaves are also toxic. In southern Jiangxi it is called "Big Tea Leaf," regarded as no different from "Gut-Breaking Grass" (Duàn Cháng Cǎo).

《福建药物志》(Fújiàn Yào Wù Zhì)

Original: 祛风活络，破瘀镇痛。主治类风湿性关节炎，风湿性关节炎，坐骨神经痛，末梢神经炎，麻风，骨髓炎，手指瘰疬。

Translation: Dispels wind and unblocks the channels, breaks Blood stasis and calms pain. Mainly treats rheumatoid arthritis, rheumatic arthritis, sciatica, peripheral neuritis, leprosy, osteomyelitis, and finger scrofula.

Historical Context

The history and evolution of Lei Gong Teng's use in Chinese medicine over the centuries

The name "Lei Gong Teng" (雷公藤, Thunder Duke Vine) references the mythological Thunder God (Lei Gong, 雷公), the deity who commands thunder in Chinese mythology. This dramatic name was deliberately chosen by folk tradition to signal the plant's ferociously potent and dangerous toxicity, likening it to the wrath of a thunder god. The herb also goes by the ominous folk name "Duàn Cháng Cǎo" (断肠草, Gut-Breaking Grass), reflecting its most prominent toxic effect on the digestive system.

Although the herb appears under various historical aliases (such as "Mǎng Cǎo" in the Shennong Bencao Jing, "Shuǐ Mǎng" in regional folk usage, and "Huáng Téng" in Hunan), later scholars have cross-referenced classical descriptions, illustrations, names, and documented uses to confirm these all refer to the same Celastraceae species. For centuries, the plant was known primarily as a potent insecticide and fish poison rather than as an internal medicine. It was in the Ming and Qing dynasties that scattered records of its external medicinal use for rheumatic conditions appeared. The modern internal therapeutic use of Lei Gong Teng is a 20th-century development. In the 1960s and 1970s, hospitals in Fujian province pioneered the practice of carefully peeling off the highly toxic bark and using only the inner woody core, decocted for extended periods, to treat leprosy reactions and then rheumatoid arthritis. The renowned nephrologist Lí Lěi Shí (黎磊石) was among the first to apply Lei Gong Teng to kidney diseases. Since the 1980s, standardized extract preparations (such as Tripterygium glycoside tablets) have been developed and are now widely used as immunosuppressants in Chinese clinical practice. The active compound triptolide was first isolated by Morris Kupchan in 1972, launching decades of international pharmacological research.

Modern Research

5 published studies investigating the pharmacological effects or clinical outcomes of Lei Gong Teng

1

Systematic review and meta-analysis of TwHF extracts in rheumatoid arthritis (14 RCTs, 2018)

Zhou YY, Xia X, Peng WK, et al. Frontiers in Pharmacology. 2018; 9: 356.

This meta-analysis of 14 randomized controlled trials found that Tripterygium wilfordii extracts significantly improved grip strength, swollen joint count, and morning stiffness compared to placebo. Compared to conventional DMARDs, the extracts showed significant differences in grip strength, morning stiffness, CRP, and tender joint count. Combining the extracts with DMARDs was also superior to DMARDs alone. The safety profile was described as acceptable, though monitoring is essential.

2

Systematic review and meta-analysis of TwHF glycosides combined with DMARDs for RA (40 RCTs, 2021)

Zheng W, Mei Y, Chen C, Cai L, Chen H. Phytotherapy Research. 2021; 35(6): 2902-2924.

A large systematic review analyzing 40 randomized controlled trials investigated the efficacy and safety of Tripterygium wilfordii glycosides combined with disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs for treating rheumatoid arthritis. The analysis supported the combination as effective, though careful safety monitoring remains necessary due to the herb's toxicity profile.

3

Network meta-analysis of TwHF versus conventional DMARDs as monotherapy for RA (22 trials, 2016)

Lv QW, Zhang W, Shi Q, et al. BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine. 2015; 15: 208.

This systematic review and network meta-analysis included 22 trials with 5,255 participants. By direct comparison, Tripterygium wilfordii was superior to sulphasalazine across ACR 20, 50 and 70 response criteria, and superior to placebo for ACR 20 and 50. Ranking analysis suggested TwHF had an 81.3% probability of being the best treatment for ACR 50 response. The authors concluded TwHF is effective and safe for RA treatment and may have better efficacy than some conventional DMARDs.

4

Quantitative evidence synthesis of adverse events associated with TwHF treatment (2019)

Zhang Y, Mao X, Guo Q, et al. Frontiers in Pharmacology. 2019; 10: 1250.

This quantitative evidence synthesis assessed the adverse event profile of Tripterygium wilfordii preparations in clinical use. The study confirmed that the herb induces toxicity in multiple organ systems, with gastrointestinal, hepatic, and renal adverse effects being most prominent. The results provide reference for clinicians regarding expected adverse event rates during treatment.

5

Comprehensive review of TwHF in rheumatic and autoimmune diseases: bioactive compounds and mechanisms (2023)

Gao S, Huo D, et al. Frontiers in Pharmacology. 2023; 14: 1282610.

This comprehensive review catalogued over 500 metabolites identified from Tripterygium wilfordii, with triptolide, celastrol, and wilforlide A as the primary bioactive compounds. The review summarized evidence for anti-inflammatory, immunosuppressive, anti-angiogenic, and bone-protective mechanisms in rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, psoriasis, Crohn's disease, and multiple sclerosis. The authors noted that hepatorenal toxicity is the primary safety concern, but many adverse effects resolve with dose adjustment.

Research on individual TCM herbs is growing but still limited by Western clinical trial standards. These studies provide emerging evidence and should be considered alongside practitioner expertise.