A plant record

Traveller's-joy

Clematis vitalba · Ranunculaceae

EnglishTraveller's-joy

FrançaisClématite des haies

BotanicalClematis vitalba

FamilyRanunculaceae

Traveller's-joy — Clematis vitalba, used in Haitian and Caribbean herbal tradition

Traditionally used

⚠ Toxic — documented for caution, not for use. The fresh plant contains protoanemonin, which blisters and inflames skin and mucous membranes, and it must never be taken internally. In old European hedgerow tradition the crushed leaf was used only as a violent external counterirritant (and, notoriously, to raise sores) — a practice recorded here for completeness, not as a remedy. The sap can irritate on contact; handle with care.

In three languages

Français — ⚠ Plante toxique — consignée par précaution, non recommandée. La plante fraîche contient de la protoanémonine, qui provoque cloques et inflammation de la peau et des muqueuses; ne jamais l'employer en interne. Dans l'ancienne tradition des haies européennes, la feuille écrasée servait uniquement de révulsif externe violent (et, tristement, à provoquer des plaies) — usage consigné par souci d'exhaustivité, non comme remède. La sève irrite au contact : manipuler avec précaution.

Safety

Safety notes for this plant are still being written. Until they are, treat it with a cautious hand.

Plants can look similar and be misidentified — always verify with a local herbalist or guide before use.

Sources & lineage

European hedgerow ethnobotany; toxicology (protoanemonin) — documented for caution, no safe medicinal use

Kept alongside

Monkshood / AconitePheasant's eyePasqueflowerGoldenseal

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