Ho-Shou-Wu
polygonum multiflorum
Polygonaceae or Knotweed/ Buckwheat family

Fo-ti

PART USED
Root

A woody perennial native to China.
Deeply imbedded in traditional Chinese medicine, this
plant and its roots are still used today for various maladies.
Ho-shou-wu is purported to be the name
of a Tang dynasty man who was healed
by the herbs nutritional properties,
which may be attributed to its high glycoside content.

Taste/smell: Bitter, slightly sweet.

Tendencies: Warming.

Dosage:
Decoction: 1-2 teaspoons per cup of water;
or 1:5 dry strength liquid extract: 20-60 drops
1-4 times per day.

Mental picture and specific indications:
Fo ti is indicated for weak kidneys.

Use:
(a) Reduces cholesterol
(b) Reduces atherosclerotic lesions
(c) Antioxidant
(d) Promotes intestinal peristalsis
(e) Promotes the growth and development
of red blood cells
(f) Antibacterial

The processed root is used
for deficient yin in the liver and kidney.
For the musculoskeletal system, it is indicated
for lower back and knee pain, weakness in the knees,
numbness in the legs, weakness in general and neuro-asthenia.
It is useful in numerous conditions including anemia,
weak seminal emission, white or yellowish vaginal discharges,
swollen lymph nodes, boils and carbuncles, vertigo,
insomnia, premature gray hair, chronic bronchitis,
schizophrenia and diabetes.

It is one of the most widely used tonic herbs
in traditional Chinese medicine.

Contraindications:
Fo ti may cause gastric irritation and is contraindicated with diarrhea.

Fo-Ti contains a number of glycosides that
account for the herb's use as a adaptogen.
Ho shou wu roots may contain compounds that
support immune, nervous and hormonal systems.

Fo-Ti is often used by athletes to support
stamina and endurance and is suggested
to shorten recovery time after a work out.

Fo-Ti (he-shou-wu) helps to produce longevity,
fertility and vitality and may offer protection against
high blood pressure, hardening of the veins and arteries,
reducing arterial plaque, easing menopausal symptoms
and darkening pre-mature gray hair