Fo Ti

🌿  (Polygonum multiflorum / Fallopia multiflora) or Chinese Knotweed

Also known as He Shou Wu or “Black-Haired Mr. He”

📖 Overview

Fo-Ti, also known as He Shou Wu, is a famous herb in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) prized for its longevity-promoting, rejuvenative, and hair-darkening properties. Though not traditionally part of Ayurveda, Fo-Ti is often paired with Ayurvedic Rasayanas due to its similar roles in vitality, liver health, and youthful aging.

📜 Traditional Use in TCM & Ayurvedic Integration

In Chinese medicine, He Shou Wu is a Jing tonic, said to restore “essence,” nourish the blood, and rejuvenate the liver and kidneys. Legend holds that a man named Mr. He reversed his gray hair and regained youthfulness through regular use—hence the name.

In Ayurvedic fusion practice, it is used similarly to Shatavari or Ashwagandha for its adaptogenic and Rasayana-like effects.

TCM Materia Medica:
“He Shou Wu tonifies the liver and kidneys, augments essence and blood, strengthens tendons and bones, and darkens hair.”

🍵 Suggested Use

Fo-Ti is traditionally consumed as:

• Prepared root (Zhi He Shou Wu): Cooked with black beans to reduce toxicity and enhance tonic effects

• Capsules/Tablets: Standardized extracts often for hair and anti-aging support

• Teas or decoctions: Combined with Rehmannia, Goji berries, or Dang Gui

• Powdered form: Less common, but can be taken with honey or ghee

🔬 Scientific Research & References

Studies on Fo-Ti support its antioxidant and rejuvenative actions:

• Hair & Skin Health: Supports melanin production and scalp microcirculation [1]

• Liver & Kidney Function: Protects against oxidative stress and inflammation [2]

• Anti-aging & Vitality: Enhances mitochondrial activity and cellular regeneration [3]

References:

1. Wang, X., et al. (2016). He Shou Wu and hair pigmentation: A pharmacological review. J Ethnopharmacol, 184, 288–300.

2. Yu, C. P., et al. (2014). Polygonum multiflorum and its hepatoprotective effects. J Tradit Complement Med, 4(2), 84–89.

3. Li, X., et al. (2012). Anti-aging properties of Fo-Ti extract in animal models. Evid Based Complement Alternat Med, 2012, 482854.

⚠️ Cautions & Contraindications

• Raw Fo-Ti (Sheng He Shou Wu) is toxic and should NOT be consumed

• Prepared Fo-Ti is safer but should be used under guidance

• May cause liver damage in rare cases—monitor liver enzymes if using long-term

• Avoid during pregnancy, breastfeeding, or with liver disease

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  "These products feature Fo Ti, traditionally used to support general wellness. This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, or cure any disease."