He Shou Wu (Prepared Fo-Ti Root)
制何首乌 · Zhì Héshǒuwū
Polygonum multiflorum (processed)
性味
味
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.
🌿 功效
- •Nourishes liver and kidney essence
- •Benefits the blood and darkens hair (traditional)
- •Strengthens sinews and bones
📖 用法用量
6–12 g in decoction; long-simmered in soups and herbal wines.
🔬 现代研究
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.
⚠️ 禁忌
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.
