Longevity
He Shou Wu (Fo-Ti)
Also known as: Polygonum multiflorum, Fo-Ti, Fleece flower root
C
Evidence
Traditional Chinese longevity herb for hair, vitality, and jing essence. Contains stilbenes and anthraquinones. Requires proper preparation.
Primary uses
- Hair health
- Longevity
- Vitality
- Jing support
How it works
- Contains stilbenes (similar to resveratrol)
- Anthraquinone content
- Traditional jing tonic
- Hair and vitality support
Dosage
- Typical range
- 500-1000mg prepared form daily
- Timing
- With meals
- With food
- Yes
- Duration
- Cycle use, monitor liver
- Special populations
- Hair, longevity, TCM protocols
Forms
- Prepared/processed
- Raw
Safety
Common side effects
- GI upset
- Diarrhea
Contraindications
- Liver disease
- Pregnancy
Evidence notes
Traditional use strong, some safety concerns with preparation
Grade C: Mostly observational or small trials; mechanism is plausible but unproven at scale.
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