Thunder god vine (Tripterygium wilfordii)

Tier 4 — risky / avoid · Immunosuppression · Infertility · Organ damage

A Chinese herb used in hospitals for rheumatoid arthritis with genuine anti-inflammatory effects. However, therapeutic and toxic doses are dangerously close. Causes infertility, severe diarrhoea, liver damage, bone marrow suppression, and death. Incorrect preparation of root parts is fatal.

Dose: AVOID as a self-administered supplement — narrow therapeutic window; causes infertility and organ damage