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Akebia

Urinary

Akebia quinata

PregnancyNursing

Last updated Mar 29, 2026

Description

Climbing vine of East Asian forests; stem used in TCM as Mu Tong for urinary conditions; controversial due to aristolochic acid in some species.

Active Compounds

hederageninsaponinsalkaloidstannins

Traditional Uses

Urinary difficulty and painful urination in TCM
Breast milk promotion
Edema from damp-heat
Used in Ba Zheng San urinary formula

Modern Uses

Diuretic
Galactagogue research
Anti-inflammatory
Antimicrobial

Dosage Information

Recommended dosing guidelines

Forms: tea, capsule
Adult Dose: 3–6 g dried stem as decoction; 300–500 mg extract
Child Dose: Not established for children
Preparation Notes: Use only A. quinata (aristolochic acid-free); avoid Aristolochia species confused with this herb

Safety Information

Not recommended during pregnancy

Not recommended while nursing

Contraindications

Pregnancy
Kidney disease
Risk of aristolochic acid contamination from Aristolochia species

Possible Side Effects

Nephrotoxicity if aristolochic acid contaminated
GI upset

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