He Shou Wu (Prepared Fo-Ti Root)
制何首乌 · Zhì Héshǒuwū
Polygonum multiflorum (processed)
Family: Polygonaceae · Part used: Root (steam-processed with black soybean) · Origin: Deqing, Guangdong, China
Nature
Flavor
Meridian
Liver, Heart, Kidney
Named after the Ming general said to have regained his black hair and vigor from its root, prepared He Shou Wu is the great blood-and-essence tonic for graying hair and depleted jing. Only the properly processed (zhi) root tonifies — raw (sheng) instead resolves toxins and moistens the bowels. Our roots follow the nine-steam-nine-dry tradition.
🌿 Functions & Actions
- •Nourishes liver and kidney essence
- •Benefits the blood and darkens hair (traditional)
- •Strengthens sinews and bones
📋 Traditional Indications
- •Premature gray hair and hair loss
- •Dizziness and tinnitus
- •Lower back and knee weakness
- •Insomnia from blood deficiency
- •Pale nails and complexion
📖 Usage & Dosage
6–12 g in decoction; long-simmered in soups and herbal wines.
🍵 Classic Recipes
He Shou Wu Black Chicken Soup
Prepared root 12 g + black chicken + red dates, simmered 2 hours monthly for hair and essence.
He Shou Wu Wine
Prepared root 20 g soaked in rice wine 500 ml for 30 days, 15 ml evenings — the classical hair tonic.
🔬 Modern Research
Stilbene glucosides (2,3,5,4'-tetrahydroxystilbene-2-O-glucoside) are studied for hair-pigment, lipid, and neuroprotective effects, alongside safety research underscoring proper processing.
⚠️ Contraindications
Important: rare cases of liver injury have been reported with raw or improperly processed fo-ti. Use only properly processed root, at moderate doses, avoiding long-term continuous use; avoid with existing liver conditions. Avoid with diarrhea.
