Fo-ti (Polygonum multiflorum)

  Other names for Polygonum multiflorum (Fo-ti) include:

• He Shou Wu
• Cibotium Barometz
• Chinese Knotweed
• Flowery Knotweed
• Multiflora Preparata
• Radix Polygoni Multiflori
• Radix Polygoni Multiflori Preparata
• Shen-Min
• Shou Wu Pian
• Tuber Fleeceflower

  1. What are the health benefits associated with Polygonum multiflorum (Fo-ti) ?

Polygonum multiflorum, also known as Fo-ti or He Shou Wu in Chinese medicine, is used for its numerous health properties. Due to its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antioxidant properties, Polygonum multiflorum is commonly used to improve health and as a preventive measure against various diseases.

Some of the health benefits associated with Polygonum multiflorum (Fo-ti) include:

• Improved liver and kidney function, aiding in the body's detoxification process.
• Enhanced digestive system, stimulating digestion and metabolism.
• Strengthened immune system and overall well-being.
• Reduced cholesterol and triglyceride levels, helping prevent heart and cardiovascular diseases.
• Improved skin, hair, and nail condition due to its anti-aging and antioxidant properties.
• Enhanced sexual function, increasing libido and improving male erectile function.

  2. Can Polygonum multiflorum (Fo-ti) be an effective remedy for hair loss and hair thinning ?

Polygonum multiflorum (Fo-ti), also known as He Shou Wu, has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for centuries to treat various conditions, including hair loss and hair thinning. According to some laboratory and clinical studies, the bioactive compounds found in Polygonum multiflorum may act on different aspects of the hair loss and hair thinning process. Animal studies have shown that Polygonum multiflorum (Fo-ti) exhibits anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and free radical scavenging activities, which may help prevent scalp inflammation and damage caused by free radicals. Laboratory studies have also demonstrated that extracts from Polygonum multiflorum (Fo-ti) can increase keratin production, a structural protein that is a key component of hair, nails, and skin.

  3. What active ingredients are found in Polygonum multiflorum (Fo-ti) and how do they affect the body ?

Polygonum multiflorum (Fo-ti), also known as He Shou Wu, is a plant used in traditional Chinese and Asian medicine for hundreds of years. Many of its beneficial health properties stem from the presence of active ingredients such as:

• Phytoestrogens: These natural plant compounds are known for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, as well as their influence on hormonal balance.
• Polyphenols: These plant compounds are potent antioxidants that help protect cells from damage.
• Anthraquinones: These compounds are used in traditional Chinese medicine as laxatives and also aid in the treatment of skin conditions.
• Lecithin: This ingredient helps regulate cholesterol levels in the blood and improves brain function.
• Polysaccharides: These compounds impact the body's immune system, enhancing its functioning.
• The impact of these ingredients on the body can help in the treatment of conditions such as hair loss, heart disease, diabetes, and overall well-being. However, as with any medicinal plant, it is important to use it in moderation.

  4. What are the potential side effects of using Polygonum multiflorum (Fo-ti) ?

Polygonum multiflorum (Fo-ti), also known as He Shou Wu, is a herb commonly used in traditional Chinese medicine for its health properties. However, using this herb may come with some side effects that are worth knowing before starting a treatment.
One of the most common side effects of using Polygonum multiflorum (Fo-ti) is diarrhea. The herb can also cause nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, bloating, and other gastrointestinal issues. Additionally, in some cases, it may trigger allergic reactions in individuals sensitive to plants in the Polygonaceae family. There have also been reports of more serious side effects associated with the use of Polygonum multiflorum (Fo-ti), such as liver damage leading to jaundice and kidney damage. The chemical compounds found in the herb may interfere with liver enzymes and cause liver toxicity. Therefore, individuals with liver conditions should avoid using Polygonum multiflorum. Other possible side effects include headaches, dizziness, difficulty breathing, heart-related issues, blood pressure problems, and skin reactions. It is important to consult a doctor or herbal medicine specialist before using Polygonum multiflorum to ensure its safety, as the herb may interact with certain medications and supplements and may not be suitable for certain groups of people, such as pregnant or breastfeeding women, children, and individuals with chronic illnesses.

  5. Can Polygonum multiflorum (Fo-ti) interact with other medications or dietary supplements ?

Polygonum multiflorum (Fo-ti), like many other herbs and dietary supplements, can interact with certain medications or other dietary supplements:

Some potential drug interactions with Polygonum multiflorum (Fo-ti) include:

• Anticoagulant medications: Polygonum multiflorum (Fo-ti) may increase the risk of bleeding, especially in individuals taking anticoagulant medications such as warfarin. Therefore, it is important for individuals taking anticoagulant medications to consult with their doctor before using Polygonum multiflorum.
• Antidiabetic medications: Polygonum multiflorum (Fo-ti) may lower blood sugar levels, which can affect the effectiveness of antidiabetic medications. Individuals taking antidiabetic medications should monitor their blood sugar levels while using Polygonum multiflorum.
• Antiepileptic medications: Polygonum multiflorum (Fo-ti) may affect the effectiveness of antiepileptic medications. Individuals taking antiepileptic medications should consult with their doctor before using Polygonum multiflorum.
• Additionally, Polygonum multiflorum (Fo-ti) may interact with certain dietary supplements, such as herbs that increase estrogen levels, which can affect the effectiveness of hormonal contraceptives. Therefore, individuals using hormonal contraceptives should consult with their doctor before using Polygonum multiflorum.
  
  

It is always important to consult with a doctor or pharmacist before starting any dietary supplement, especially if already taking medications.

  6. What are the recommended dosages and methods of using Polygonum multiflorum (Fo-ti) ?

Polygonum multiflorum (Fo-ti), also known as He Shou Wu, is a popular ingredient in traditional Chinese medicine and is used to improve health and alleviate symptoms of various conditions. It is typically used in the form of dried roots or extracts, and dosages may vary depending on the intended use and individual needs. For healthy individuals without chronic illnesses, it is recommended to use a dosage of 6-15g of dried Polygonum multiflorum roots or 3-6g of water-alcohol extract. For older or weaker individuals, the dosage should be smaller, around 3-6g of dried roots or 1.5-3g of extract. When using Polygonum multiflorum (Fo-ti) for improving hair quality or alleviating hair loss symptoms, the recommended dosage is approximately 10g of dried roots or 5g of extract per day. Polygonum multiflorum (Fo-ti) can be used in various forms, such as herbal infusions, water or alcohol extracts, as well as capsules and tablets. For dried roots, they are typically boiled in water and consumed as an infusion.

  7. Is Polygonum multiflorum (Fo-ti) safe for consumption by children, pregnant women, and breastfeeding women ?

There is insufficient research on the safety of Polygonum multiflorum (Fo-ti) in children, pregnant women, and breastfeeding women, so its use should be avoided in these groups. Due to the lack of adequate safety evidence, supplementing with Polygonum multiflorum is not recommended for pregnant and breastfeeding women, as it could affect the health of the embryo, fetus, or newborn. Similarly, as with other herbs, caution should be exercised when supplementing with Polygonum multiflorum (Fo-ti) in children. Always consult with a doctor before starting supplementation in children. For pregnant and breastfeeding women, there is insufficient evidence regarding the safety of using Polygonum multiflorum. It is recommended to avoid supplement use during these periods.

  8. What are the guidelines for safe purchase and consumption of Polygonum multiflorum (Fo-ti) ?

Before purchasing and consuming Polygonum multiflorum (Fo-ti), it is important for consumers to exercise caution and follow some basic guidelines. Here are a few of them:

• Purchase only from reputable sellers: Choose products only from reputable sellers who offer products that comply with safety and quality standards.
• Pay attention to the origin: Polygonum multiflorum (Fo-ti) should be purchased only from trusted sources, preferably from manufacturers who provide the origin of their product.
• Read the label: Read the label to ensure the product complies with requirements and contains only natural ingredients.
• Be mindful of dosage: Use only the recommended dosage to avoid potential side effects and toxicity.
• Be aware of possible interactions: Polygonum multiflorum (Fo-ti) may interact with certain medications, so it is always worth consulting with a doctor before starting supplementation.
• Avoid prolonged use: Do not use Polygonum multiflorum (Fo-ti) for longer than recommended by the manufacturer to avoid toxicity.
• Exercise caution with allergies: Individuals with allergies to plants in the Polygonaceae family should exercise caution when using Polygonum multiflorum (Fo-ti).
  
  

  9. What are the contraindications for using Polygonum multiflorum (Fo-ti) ?

Polygonum multiflorum (Fo-ti) is a plant that can have beneficial effects on health but can also cause certain undesirable effects. There are contraindications for its use that should be taken into account before starting a treatment. Individuals with liver diseases should avoid using Polygonum multiflorum (Fo-ti) due to the potential risk of liver damage. Individuals with autoimmune diseases such as lupus or rheumatoid arthritis should also avoid using Polygonum multiflorum due to its potential pro-inflammatory effects.
Furthermore, Polygonum multiflorum (Fo-ti) can have an impact on the hormonal system, so pregnant women, breastfeeding women, and children should avoid its use without consulting a doctor. Individuals taking prescription medications should also consult with a doctor before starting Polygonum multiflorum treatment, as it may affect the effectiveness of certain medications.

  SCIENTIFIC RESEARCH HAS BEEN CONDUCTED BY THE FOLLOWING INSTITUTIONS:

• Peking University First Hospital, China
• University of Macau, China
• Korea Institute of Oriental Medicine, Korea
• Gachon University, Korea
• Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, China
• Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, China
• China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, China
• Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, China
• University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
• Chang Gung University, Taiwan
• Harvard Medical School, USA
• University of Maryland School of Medicine, USA
• University of California, USA
• University of Bonn, Germany
• University of Milan, Italy
  
  
  

  STORAGE

To maintain the quality and freshness of Polygonum multiflorum (Fo-ti), it should be stored properly. Here are a few tips on how to store Polygonum multiflorum:

• Store Polygonum multiflorum (Fo-ti) in a dry and cool place. Avoid storing it in areas exposed to moisture, sunlight, or high temperature.
• Keep Polygonum multiflorum (Fo-ti) away from heat sources such as stoves and radiators.
• Store Polygonum multiflorum (Fo-ti) in a tightly sealed container to prevent air, moisture, and bacteria from entering.
• Do not store Polygonum multiflorum (Fo-ti) in the refrigerator or freezer as it may affect its quality.
• Always check the expiration date of Polygonum multiflorum (Fo-ti) before purchase and storage to ensure it is fresh and safe for consumption.
  
  

Following these simple storage guidelines will help maintain the quality and effectiveness of Polygonum multiflorum (Fo-ti) and prevent the growth of bacteria and mold.

  SCIENTIFIC SOURCES

• "Pharmacological effects and pharmacokinetics properties of Radix Polygoni Multiflori extract and its potential mechanisms" J. Ethnopharmacol. 2014.
• "Toxicity and bioactivity of Polygonum multiflorum Thunb.: A review and analysis of rodent models" Food Chem. Toxicol. 2015.
• "Chemical constituents and pharmacological activities of Polygonum multiflorum Thunb on osteoporosis, liver injury, and cancer diseases: A review" Pharm. Biol. 2019.
• "Bioactive Constituents of Polygonum multiflorum Root Exhibit Antioxidant Activity and Neuroprotective Effects against Glutamate-Induced Toxicity in PC12 Cells" J. Agric. Food Chem. 2018.
• "Effects of Polygonum multiflorum on the Activity of Antioxidant Enzymes and the Expression of Genes Associated with Aging in the Brain Tissues of SAMP8 Mice" Evid. Based Complement. Alternat. Med. 2019.
• "Effect of Radix Polygoni Multiflori extract on tumor necrosis factor-alpha-induced matrix metalloproteinase activity and downregulation of collagen synthesis in chondrocytes" J. Ethnopharmacol. 2012.
• "Polygonum multiflorum Root Extract as a Potential Candidate for Treatment of Early-Onset Alzheimer’s Disease via Targeting Aβ and Tau Proteins" J. Alzheimers Dis. 2019.
• "Polyphenols and antioxidant activity of Polygonum multiflorum Thunb.: A review" Nat. Prod. Res. 2019.
• "Polygonum multiflorum Thunb.: A comprehensive review on chemical composition, pharmacology, and safety" Evid. Based Complement. Alternat. Med. 2018.
• "Anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities of ethanolic extract of Polygonum multiflorum Thunb. on ulcerative colitis in rats through regulation of NF-κB and Nrf2 signaling pathways" J. Ethnopharmacol. 2020.
• "The role of Polygonum multiflorum Thunb. in gut microbiota dysbiosis and metabolic disorders: A review of preclinical studies" Phytother. Res. 2020.
• "Polygonum multiflorum Thunb.: A comprehensive review on phytochemistry, pharmacology, and pharmacokinetics profile" Phytother. Res. 2019.
• https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Polygonatum_multiflorum
  
  
  

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