Celastrus orbiculatus is a perennial, deciduous, woody vine-shrub, native to China. It was introduced to North America and Europe, where in warmer regions it started to grow so well that it has become an invasive species.
Growin up in Poland I was familiar with this very little known there plant, thanks to my dad, who was a gardener specialized in rare species. He tought me that Celastrus orbiculatus leaf tea is good for stomach, but it didn't attract much of my attention back then. But many years later reading English translation of Caraka Samhita, I've found out that Celastrus paniculatus is praised in Ayurvedic medicine for its memory boosting properties. And that has brought my strong attention to Celastrus species, as there are not that many effective memory and cognitive function improving herbs (as there are for stomach problems or or liver ailments for example). And as I've started to research on this herb. It turns out that just like C. paniculatus in India, C. orbiculatus is used as a brain stimulant in China.
But sadly while doing more research. I found out, that since July 2027 growing Celastrus orbiculatus will be prohibited in whole Eurepean Union, as it was labeled an invasive species. And that for that same reason it is hated by many botanists in USA.
I don't want to debate here if it is a serious threat to local indigenous species or not (in central Poland the worst invasive vine, killing small plants and shrubs, is hops, yet it is not banned but it's cultivation is subsidized by government). I just want people to know, that they can use its wonderful medicinal properties, which are almost unknown in Europe and America.
It might take long time till I'll finish my research on this remarkable herb and publish full report here. But for now at least you know that it is not just a useless obnoxsious weed or a fancy ornamental plant (planted for beauty of its red berries hanging whole winter, contrasting vividly with snow). But a useful medicine to try.
Here are some good info on its use :
https://sys01.lib.hkbu.edu.hk/cmed/mpid/detail.php?sort=latin&lang=eng&qry=celastrus&herb_id=D00658
