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Fo-Ti

Uses

Botanical names:
Polygonum multiflorum

Parts Used & 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.

What Are Star Ratings?

This supplement has been used in connection with the following health conditions:

Used for Why
1 Star
Constipation
Refer to label instructions
The unprocessed roots of fo-ti possess a mild laxative effect.

The unprocessed roots of possess a mild laxative effect. The bitter compounds in dandelion leaves and root are also mild laxatives.

1 Star
High Cholesterol
Refer to label instructions
Animal and laboratory research suggests the herb fo-ti may lower high cholesterol levels; however, this herb should be used with caution due to its unpredictable potential to cause liver damage.
(Polygonium multiflorum) is an herb used in traditional Chinese medicine to slow aging and treat constipation and skin disorders. Research in animals and other laboratory models has indicated fo-ti may improve lipid metabolism and lower cholesterol levels by inhibiting cholesterol synthesis. Cases of liver toxicity related to the use of fo-ti have been reported, but the mechanism of liver injury remains unknown.
1 Star
Immune Function
Refer to label instructions
Preliminary research suggests that fo-ti plays a role in a strong immune system and has antibacterial action.
Preliminary research suggests that plays a role in a strong immune system and has antibacterial action. More research is needed to further understand the potential importance of these effects.

Traditional Use (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.

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