Implication of aristolochic acid safety

There have been numerous domestic and international reports of nephrotoxicity associated with botanical products found to contain aristolochic acid. Many investigations disclosed cases of nephropathy and end-stage renal diseases associated with ingestion of products containing aristolochic acid. Of further concern is carcinogenic potential of aristolochic acid. Aristolochic acid, when tested for carcinogenicity by oral administration in mice and rats,induced chronically toxicity,and led to local and systemic tumors. Furthermore,patients taking aristolochic acid may be at increased risk of developing malignancies. The toxic effects of aristolochic acid in animals have been inferred from effects seen in patients suffering from kidney nephropathy as a result of consuming herbal mixtures containing aristolochic acid. Concerns about botanical-containing products known or suspected of containing aristolochic acid will bring to our attention important safety information relative to nephrotoxicity associated with aristolochic acid and rationality to utilize traditional Chinese medicine.