Thunder God Vine (Tripterygium wilfordii)
Quick Facts
- Type
- Botanical
- Source
- Root bark extract from Tripterygium wilfordii — traditional Chinese medicinal plant and insecticide
- OMRI Listed
- No
- Bee Safe
- No — apply in evening
- Pet Safe
- Caution
- Residual
- 10-14 days
- Best For
- Historical context only. Listed in the Graveyard because its toxicity makes it unsuitable for modern use.
What Is Thunder God Vine (Tripterygium wilfordii)?
Contains wilforine, celastrol, and triptolide — powerful terpenoids with insecticidal, immunosuppressant, and anti-inflammatory properties. Acts as a stomach poison and contact insecticide. However, triptolide is extremely toxic to mammals.
Source: Root bark extract from Tripterygium wilfordii — traditional Chinese medicinal plant and insecticide
What Pests Does Thunder God Vine (Tripterygium wilfordii) Kill?
Thunder God Vine (Tripterygium wilfordii) is effective against the following pests:
How to Apply Thunder God Vine (Tripterygium wilfordii)
Best for: Historical context only. Listed in the Graveyard because its toxicity makes it unsuitable for modern use.
Avoid for: ALL pest control applications. This is a dangerous substance.
Residual activity: 10-14 days
Safety Profile
| Category | Rating |
|---|---|
| Bee Safety | 🔴 Toxic to bees while wet |
| Pet Safety | 🔴 Use caution around pets |
| Overall Rating | Warning — Organic but toxic or dangerous to non-targets |
Why Isn't Thunder God Vine (Tripterygium wilfordii) Working?
If Thunder God Vine (Tripterygium wilfordii) isn't delivering results, check these common failure modes:
EXTREMELY TOXIC to humans — triptolide has no safe handling margin
Causes liver failure, kidney failure, and death in mammals
No commercial insecticide products exist due to toxicity
Being researched for pharmaceutical applications (immunosuppression), not agriculture