Botanical name: Polygonum multiflorum
© Steven Foster
Parts used and where grown
Fo-ti is a plant native to China, where it continues to be widely grown. It also grows
extensively in Japan and Taiwan. The unprocessed root is sometimes used medicinally. However,
once it has been boiled in a special liquid made from black beans, it is considered a superior and rather
different medicine according to Traditional
Chinese Medicine. The unprocessed root is sometimes called white fo-ti and the processed
root red fo-ti. According to Chinese herbal medicine, the unprocessed root is used to relax
the bowels and detoxify the blood, and the processed root is used to strengthen the blood,
invigorate the kidneys and liver, and serve as a tonic to increase overall vitality.
Fo-ti has been used in
connection with the following conditions (refer to the individual
health concern for complete information):
Historical or traditional use (may
or may not be supported by scientific studies)
The Chinese common name for fo-ti, he-shou-wu, was the name of a Tang dynasty man whose
infertility was supposedly cured by fo-ti. In addition, his long life was attributed to the
tonic properties of this herb.1 Since then, Traditional Chinese Medicine has used fo-ti to treat
premature aging, weakness, vaginal discharges, numerous infectious diseases, angina pectoris, and erectile dysfunction.
Active constituents
The major constituents of fo-ti are anthraquinones, phospholipids (e.g., lecithin),
tannins, and tetrahydroxystilbene glucoside. The processed root has been used to lower
cholesterol levels in Traditional Chinese
Medicine. According to animal research, it helps to decrease fat deposits in the blood and
possibly prevent atherosclerosis.2
3 However, human clinical trials are lacking to support this use. Test tube studies
have suggested fo-ti’s ability to stimulate
immune function, increase red blood cell formation, and exert an antibacterial
action.4 None of these effects has been studied in humans. The unprocessed roots
have a mild laxative action.
How much is usually taken?
The typical recommended intake is 1–1 1/2 teaspoons (4–8 grams) per
day.5 A tea can be made from processed roots by boiling 1/2–1 teaspoons
(3–5 grams) in 1 cup (250 ml) of water for ten to fifteen minutes. Three or more cups
are suggested each day. Five fo-ti tablets (500 mg each) can be taken three times per day.
Are there any side effects or interactions?
The unprocessed roots may cause mild
diarrhea.6 Some people who are sensitive to fo-ti may develop a skin rash.
Taking more than 15 grams of processed root powder may cause numbness in the arms or legs.
At the time of writing, there were no well-known drug interactions
with fo-ti.
References:1. Foster S, Yue CX. Herbal Emissaries: Bringing Chinese Herbs to the
West. Rochester, VT: Healing Arts Press, 1992, 79–85.
2. Foster S, Yue CX. Herbal Emissaries: Bringing Chinese Herbs to the
West. Rochester, VT: Healing Arts Press, 1992, 79–85.
3. Foster S. Herbal Renaissance. Layton, Utah: Gibbs-Smith
Publisher, 1993, 40–1.
4. Foster S, Yue CX. Herbal Emissaries: Bringing Chinese Herbs to the
West. Rochester, VT: Healing Arts Press, 1992, 79–85.
5. Bone K. Clinical Applications of Ayurvedic and Chinese Herbs.
Warwick, Australia: Phytotherapy Press, 1996, 49–51.
6. Foster S. Herbs for Your Health. Loveland, CO: Interweave
Press, 1996, 40–1.