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Fo-Ti / He Shou Wu (Polygonum multiflorum)

Botanical Information

  • Family: Polygonaceae
  • Common Names: Fo-Ti, He Shou Wu, Chinese Knotweed
  • Parts Used: Root (processed and unprocessed)

Description

Fo-Ti, or He Shou Wu, is a perennial vine native to China, known for its role in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) as a rejuvenating and longevity-enhancing herb. The root, particularly when processed, is highly regarded for its ability to nourish the blood, support hair growth, and improve vitality.

Historical and Traditional Uses

  • Revered in TCM for restoring youthful vitality, promoting hair growth, and nourishing the liver and kidneys.
  • Used traditionally to improve fertility and sexual function.
  • Employed as a tonic to strengthen muscles, tendons, and bones and to promote longevity.

Constituents

  • Stilbene glycosides (including resveratrol)
  • Anthraquinones (emodin)
  • Phospholipids
  • Flavonoids
  • Tannins
  • Polysaccharides

Actions

  • Adaptogenic
  • Tonic (nourishes and strengthens the body)
  • Anti-inflammatory
  • Antioxidant
  • Hepatoprotective (liver-protecting)
  • Blood tonic

Medicinal Uses

1. Longevity and Anti-Aging:
Fo-Ti is traditionally used to restore vitality, slow the aging process, and enhance overall longevity.

2. Hair and Skin Health:
It is famous for promoting hair growth, preventing premature graying, and nourishing the skin by improving blood circulation.

3. Liver and Kidney Support:
Fo-Ti nourishes and strengthens the liver and kidneys, which are central to detoxification and energy production in TCM.

4. Blood Tonic:
Its blood-nourishing properties help improve circulation, alleviate fatigue, and treat anemia-related symptoms.

5. Cognitive Support:
Fo-Ti is believed to enhance memory, concentration, and mental clarity due to its adaptogenic and antioxidant effects.

6. Immune System Modulation:
It boosts immune function by promoting general vitality and enhancing the body’s resistance to stress and illness.

Preparation and Dosage

Decoction:

  • 1-2 tsp of dried Fo-Ti root per cup of water. Simmer for 20-30 minutes and drink 1-2 times daily.

Tincture:

  • 2-4 ml of Fo-Ti tincture, taken 2-3 times daily.

Capsules:

  • 500-1,000 mg of standardized extract, taken 1-2 times daily.

Powder:

  • 1-2 grams of powdered root can be added to teas or smoothies.

Precautions and Contraindications

  • Raw Root: Unprocessed root may cause mild laxative effects and should be used with caution.
  • Pregnancy and Lactation: Avoid use during pregnancy and breastfeeding without consulting a healthcare provider.
  • Liver Health: There have been rare reports of hepatotoxicity. Use processed root and monitor liver function with prolonged use.

Energetics (Traditional Medicine Perspectives)

  • Traditional Chinese Medicine: Tonifies the liver and kidneys, nourishes blood and yin, and strengthens jing (vital essence).
  • Ayurvedic: Warming and grounding, helping balance vata and kapha while supporting pitta in moderation.

Combinations

  • For Hair Growth: Combine with nettle and saw palmetto.
  • For Liver Health: Combine with milk thistle and dandelion.
  • For Anti-Aging: Combine with ginseng and astragalus.

Harvesting and Storage

  • Harvesting: Roots are harvested in autumn when nutrient content is at its peak.
  • Processing: Traditionally, the root is prepared by steaming with black soybean juice to enhance its tonic properties.
  • Storage: Store dried roots or powders in an airtight container in a cool, dark place.

Modern Research

Studies have shown Fo-Ti’s potential to support hair growth, enhance liver function, and provide antioxidant protection. Research is ongoing into its role in aging, cognitive support, and metabolic health.

Fo-Ti remains a powerful herb in both traditional and modern herbal medicine, revered for its rejuvenating effects and ability to nourish the body’s vital systems.