Fo Ti Herb Supplement Information & Effects

The Fo Ti herb has been a staple of traditional Chinese medicine for thousands of years.

Fo Ti (Polygonum multiflorum) is also known by a number of other names, including he shou wu. It is a climbing, vine-like plant native to central and southern China, Japan and Taiwan.

The root is primarily used to make Fo Ti supplements. Three- to four-year old plants are unearthed in the autumn and their roots are dried for medicinal use. The larger roots of older plants are also used, but are not commonly sold.

In Chinese herbal medicine, Fo Ti is considered a rejuvenating and revitalizing herb that balances the individual’s vital energy or qi. It is popularly used as a rejuvenating tonic and to increase male and female fertility. It is also used to strengthen liver and kidney function as well as to fortify muscles, tendons and bones.

This is only a sampling of the contemporary uses of Fo Ti. The plant is being actively studied to understand its medicinal effects and mechanisms of action. To date, there is insufficient clinical evidence to dictate any standardized use guidelines for Fo Ti supplementation.

Fo Ti (He Shou Wu)

Herbal Supplement

Anti- Aging

Sex Drive

Blood Tonic

How It Works:

• Anti-aging herb used in Chinese medicine
• Stimulates the libido & adrenal function
• Exhibits antioxidant & neuroprotective effects

Dosage:

Between 500 - 1000 mg per day

Safety:

Rated Possibly Unsafe

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Fo Ti Herb Effects

In comparison to other Chinese herbal medicines, relatively little research has been conducted on Fo Ti.

Preliminary research has been mainly isolated to laboratory and animal experiments, meaning that there is little research on how Fo Ti impacts human health.

Researchers are investigating Fo Ti in the hopes of discerning its therapeutic value. The plant contains a number of phytochemicals (plant chemicals) that may prove to be therapeutically useful.

Despite the lack of scientific evidence, Fo Ti is used for a wide array of purposes. Many of these uses are influenced by the herb’s role in traditional Chinese medicine. Some uses include:

• Preventing the development and progression of cancerous cells;
• Improving use of estrogen, testosterone, cortisol and human growth hormone;
• Lowering blood lipid levels and reducing risk factors associated with heart disease;
• Treating lymphatic tuberculosis;
• Treating constipation;
• Alleviating prostatitis (inflamed, swollen prostate);
• Promoting liver and kidney health;
• Regulating blood pH and acting as a general blood elixir;
• Adding strength to muscles, bones, ligaments and tendons;
• Sparking metabolic enhancements and increasing overall energy levels;
• Alleviating insomnia symptoms by virtue of sedative properties;
• Preventing and alleviating lower back and knee pains;
• Treating tingling and numbness in the limbs;
• Treating tinnitus (ear ringing) and stabilizing dizziness;
• Reversing premature greying of hair and loss of hair;

Research is ongoing to determine the full therapeutic effects of Fo Ti. Early studies have resulted in some positive findings.

Fo Ti Herb Benefits: Blood Toning

One of the main traditional uses of Fo Ti is as a nerve and blood tonic. Today Fo Ti is thought to play an important role in the development of healthy red blood cells. It may balance blood pH and help to inhibit fatty acid buildup in the circulatory system and liver. Additionally, it has exhibited anti-inflammatory properties and has been observed to reduce swelling in the lymphatic system.

Fo Ti has been observed to function as a vasodilator, relaxing the endothelium of blood vessels. During vasodilation the heart and vessel tissues relax and expand. This expansion allows the circulating blood to flow with more ease, which may improve circulation and reduce blood pressure.

Additionally, more nutrients, proteins and beneficial hormones are delivered throughout the body, which can help support good health. Also, Fo Ti has been observed to relax the lung endothelium, enhancing the body’s capacity to ward off allergic and asthmatic reactions.

Fo Ti Herb Benefits: Lectin Content

Lectins are composed of proteins and sugars. They are proven to exhibit antibiotic traits and seem to produce few, if any, adverse reactions.

Lectins are also thought to change blood lipid profiles by lowering LDL cholesterol, total cholesterol and triglyceride levels.

Additionally, HDL (so-called “good” cholesterol) levels have been observed to increase with lectin consumption. Lectins also act to inhibit fatty deposits in the liver and blood vessels.

Fo Ti Herb Side Effects

Anecdotal evidence suggests that Fo Ti is well tolerated and causes few side effects. Many claim to take Fo Ti daily with few adverse effects. When Fo Ti is used excessively for prolonged periods, nausea and intestinal distress have been reported.

Contrary to historical reports, a number of contemporary scientific studies have linked Fo Ti with liver damage.

Drug Interactions

Fo Ti may affect liver function and interact with prescription drugs that are broken-down and assimilated in the liver. Also, the efficacy of drugs commonly prescribed for type II diabetes mellitus may be affected by Fo Ti supplementation.

There are many potential drug interactions to consider before taking Fo Ti. It is important to speak with your doctor to make sure the supplement is safe for you. The Fo Ti herb is thought to generate a number of health benefits and should be used under the guidance of a healthcare professional.

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