Fo-Ti
Introduction Polygonum multiflorum (He-shou-wu or Fo ti) is an important blood tonic in traditional Chinese medicine. It is often used to support the kidneys and liver. Studies also suggest that Fo ti has the ability to support immune functioning, by discouraging free-radicals. In Traditional Chinese Medicine, fo-ti is one of the herbs used to nourish the heart and calm the spirit. The literal English translation of its name is "vine to pass through the night." With a distinctive sweet yet bitter taste, fo-ti was thought to unblock the channels of energy through the body, allowing the escape of the pathogenic influences that cause generalized weakness, soreness, pain, and fatigue. The plant is also used as a wash for itching and skin rashes.Another use of the herb is bringing color back to graying hair. The Chinese nickname for the herb, ho shou wu, literally means "Mr. HeÍs Black Hair," Mr. He being a man of Chinese legend who restored his youth and sexual potency by taking fo-ti tea. Chinese tradition teaches that the herb should be used by itself or cooked in the water used to cook black beans for this purpose. Constituents Chrysophanic acid, chrysophanol, emodin. Parts Used Two varieties are known. "White" fo-ti is firm, coarse, and light brown and beige in color. Fo-ti root that has been cooked in black bean water, known as "red fo-ti," will have a reddish-brown tint with a crispy feel and is usually found in slices. Typical Preparations Teas and tinctures. Traditionally combined with jujubes and/or biota to treat insomnia. Sometimes found in capsule form. Summary The traditional indication for fo-ti is insomnia with nightmares. Fo-ti is a mild stimulant to estrogen production in women, making it appropriate for treating a variety of undesirable symptoms in menopause. Precautions Safety in young children, pregnant or nursing women, or those with severe liver or kidney disease is not known. Excessive use can cause numbness in the hands and feet„allow at least 3 months to notice change in hair color. There are reports of hepatitis caused by the Chinese patent medicine Fo-Ti-Tieng, but this similarly named product does not contain the herb. Excessive use may also cause gastro-intestinal upset.
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