Thinleaf Crazyweed

Other names: Ji Dou Gen, Oxytropis Leptophylla

Thinleaf Crazyweed, also known by the names Ji Dou Gen or Oxytropis Leptophylla, is a plant found primarily in North America and Asia. It is a perennial grass with thin, lance-shaped leaves and purple flowers. This plant belongs to the bean family and is characterized by its ability to survive even in extremely cold conditions. Thinleaf Crazyweed is known for its poisonous effect on livestock, specifically horses and cattle, which suffer from nervous disorders after ingestion.

As for the use of Thinleaf Crazyweed in industrial production, this is not widespread. Its toxic effects and its difficulty in processing limit its use. Nevertheless, it does appear in some traditional Chinese medicines. In China, it is called Ji Dou Gen and is used to treat some specific ailments such as skin rashes or kidney diseases. Thinleaf Crazyweed also contains some bioactive compounds that may have potentially medicinal effects, however, most of these studies are still in the research stage. Final products containing this plant are thus mainly available in the Asian market, while they are not very common in the Western world.