Xl. Tao et Pe. Lipsky, The Chinese anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive herbal remedy Tripterygium wilfordii Hook F, RHEUM DIS C, 26(1), 2000, pp. 29
Various preparations of Tripterygium wilfordii Hook F (TwHF) have been used
in the treatment of a number of autoimmune and inflammatory diseases since
the 1960s. Accumulated data from the clinical trials suggest efficacy of t
his treatment in a number of rheumatic diseases, including rheumatoid arthr
itis and systemic lupus erythematosus. Studies on the relationship of the c
hemical components of TwHF and its immunosuppressive and anti-inflammatory
effects suggest that diterpenoid compounds with epoxide groups account for
the therapeutic effects of this herbal remedy. This herbal remedy is theref
ore a unique and powerful alternative therapy fur autoimmune and inflammato
ry diseases.