Birthwort Definition

Any of a genus (Aristolochia) of vines of the birthwort family with brownish or purplish S-shaped flowers: formerly used in folk medicine as an aid in childbirth.

Any of various herbs or woody vines of the genus Aristolochia having showy, often malodorous, purplish-brown to yellowish flowers with unusual shapes. The European species A. clematitis was used as a folk medicine to aid childbirth.

Designating a family (Aristolochiaceae, order Aristolochiales) of dicotyledonous plants, shrubs, and woody vines, including Dutchman's pipe.