Fo-Ti Benefits

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Latin Name

Polygonum multiflorum

Also Known As

Ho Shou Wu, Fleeceflower Vine and Polygonum Flower

Origin

China

Parts Used

Root

Traditional Use and Health Benefits

Regarded as the “Elixir of Life” by many in Asia, this legendary herb has a very colourful history. It has a reputation for enhancing longevity and energy, and has been used for centuries to boost libido, fertility, to maintain hair colour and rejuvenate the nerves and brain cells.

Hailed as the “Cure to Old Age”, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) has used it to treat anything from acne and athletes foot to constipation and erectile dysfunction.

Fo-Ti Benefits

Heart Health

Fo-ti contains beneficial dietary lectin compounds that have been shown to support healthy cholesterol levels. Lectins are protein-sugar complexes that attach to specific arrangements of carbohydrates in the body, acting like antibodies but without the allergy symptoms. It is through this mechanism that they can block the formation of plaque in blood vessels, preventing or delaying the onset of heart conditions such as heart disease and atherosclerosis.

Sexual Health

Increased fertility, sexual vigour and the ability to treat erectile dysfunction are other benefits you can expect to receive from fo-ti. Researchers believe these effects are due to the proven ability of this herb to raise red blood cell counts and improve circulation – meaning fo-ti’s power to increase blood flow to “all the right places” could be the key to its success in the bedroom.

In TCM this herb is known as a “Jing” tonic, which loosely translates as “vital essence” and refers to the primordial energy that fuels all life and, by extension, sexuality and drive.

Menopause

A study published in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism found “surprisingly high oestrogen activity” in fo-ti, suggesting it may alleviate symptoms of menopause.

Hair Health

In Asia, fo-ti is famed for reversing grey hair. It is thought to do this through its ability to restore melanin – the pigment that gives hair and skin its colour. Improved blood circulation and flow to the hair follicles is thought to be responsible for this root’s ability to prevent hair loss.

Longevity

Research has shown that the fo-ti root increases the production of the body’s master antioxidant, superoxide dismutase (SOD). Levels of this important antioxidant decline with age, leaving the body open to damage by one of the most dangerous free radicals – superoxide. Preventing this damage addresses the fundamental cause of aging, damage to the DNA by oxygen-free radicals.

To further boost the antioxidant activity of this root, it also contains the powerful antioxidants stilbene glycosides. Combining these with the increased production of SOD is possibly the most significant function that fo-ti has for enhancing longevity.

Typical Use

2 - 4 grams up to twice a day or as recommended by a herbal practitioner

Folklore and History

Fo-ti is one of the most widely praised herbs in Chinese herbal medicine, some claiming that it is second only to Ginseng in reputation and use. In China, fo-ti has a long history of reversing and preventing the effects of aging. A bittersweet, astringent, slightly warming herb, it was first recorded in the Ri Huazi Bencao (Tang Dynasty, 713 AD) as a key remedy for the elderly. The Chinese common name for fo-ti is "He-Shou-Wu," and its history is rich in legend. He Shou Wu (called "the black-haired Mr. He") was the name of a Tang Dynasty man, who, at fifty-eight years of age, had been unable to father a child. He was advised to take Fo-Ti Root and then not only fathered several children, but his hair turned from gray to black, and his body became more youthful. He lived to 160 years of age (still with black hair!), while his child lived to be 130. The fo-ti root was said to cure his infertility and his long life was attributed to the tonic properties of this herb. Fo-Ti

Constituents

Chrysophanic acid, chrysophanol, emodin

Precautions

Not to be used while pregnant. Excessive use may cause gastro-intestinal upset and diarrhea

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