How to Make Fo Ti Tea – Dosages, Recipes & Effects

Fo Ti Tea is made from the plant Polygonum multifloum. P. multiflorum is also known by its Chinese name he shou wu or flowery knotweed.

A vine indigenous to the isolated, high-altitude mountains of southern and central China, Fo Ti has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for centuries.

In traditional medicine practice, Fo Ti tea is considered a general blood, liver, kidney and heart tonic that is used to help balance and concentrate the body’s vital energy, or qi. It has been used for its rejuvenating properties to help stave off the effects of aging and to support male and female infertility.

Although Fo Ti tea has a long history of use within traditional medicine practices, contemporary scientific research on the plant is lacking.

Studies are underway to examine if Fo Ti or its constituents can play a role in: supporting cardiovascular health; stimulating energy and mental clarity; supporting fertility; stopping the formation/progression of cancer cells; improving sexual performance; and increasing muscle size and power.

However, there has been little scientific research done on Fo Ti in comparison to other herbs used in traditional Chinese medicine. The little research that has taken place has been isolated to animal and laboratory studies.

No definitive uses of Fo Ti can be identified from scientific study. Additionally, there are no standardized FDA recommendations concerning Fo Ti Tea 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 Tea: Historical Uses and Ongoing Research

P. multiflorum is a perennial vine that can reach heights of 35 feet.

It has red stems, heart-shaped leaves and produces pink and white flowers.

It is one of the four primary medicinal plants in Chinese herbal medicine, along with Panax, angelica and lyceum. When the plants are between three and four years old, their roots, stems and leaves are harvested to prepare traditional medicines.

These medicines are used to promote longevity and vitality. Common traditional uses include: reversing hair loss and hair greying due to aging; enhancing libido; and treating male infertility.

Today, Fo Ti and its constituents are being investigated for their capacity to:

• Exhibit antioxidant action and reduce damage caused by free radicals;
• Support red blood cells;
• Stimulate mental clarity and improve cognitive function;
• Act as a mild sedative;
• Support muscles of the knee and lower back;
• Increase sex drive (libido);
• Improve the quality and quantity of sperm produced in the testes;
• Enhance the use of estrogen, human growth hormone, testosterone and cortisol;
• Support ovarian health;
• Restore growth and pigmentation to prematurely aged hair;
• Support cardiovascular health;
• Detoxify the liver, kidneys, heart and eyes, promoting enhanced bodily detoxification in general;
• Lower LDL (“bad”) cholesterol;
• Raise HDL (“good”) cholesterol;
• Decrease triglyceride levels;
• Reduce arterial plaque;
• Increase production of the antioxidant superoxide dismutase (SOD):

As discussed, there is not enough evidence to identify the capacity of Fo Ti to act as a therapeutic agent.

Fo Ti Tea Preparation

Fo Ti must be simmered to release the plant’s phytochemicals (plant chemicals). Appropriate simmering can help reduce the quantity of phytochemicals associated with the plant’s laxative effects.

The herb may cause diarrhea, stomach upset and vomiting when used in its raw or unprepared form. Raw Fo Ti is a potent laxative used for treating severe constipation. Overuse of will likely cause gastrointestinal distress.

By simmering the Fo Ti Tea mix on the lowest heat setting for a minimum of 20 minutes, you will ensure maximum release of its many beneficial phytonutrients. Decoct the tea until it is dark, rich and thick. Then, strain the plant material from the mixture and enjoy the tea.

Fo Ti Tea has been consumed three times a day to invigorate the body and reduce signs of aging.

Fo Ti Tea Contraindications

Fo Ti is thought to have a potent effect on the liver and may impact the organ’s ability to metabolize certain pharmaceuticals.

If this occurs, it may result in either intensified or diminished pharmaceutical effect. Additionally, the possible side effects of those drugs may get stronger or weaker.

There are a number of prescription and over-the-counter medications that may interact with Fo Ti Tea supplementation. Be sure to check with your doctor before beginning to drink Fo Ti Tea.

Safety and Side Effects

Anecdotally, Fo Ti Tea is not commonly associated with severe side effects. However, limited scientific study has linked Fo Ti use with some cases of liver damage.

Fo Ti is considered a powerful medicinal plant and may not be recommended for certain groups, including:

• Those with estrogen-sensitive diseases, such as ovarian cancer, endometriosis, breast cancer and uterine fibrosis;
• Individuals with diabetes mellitus type II or other conditions that may induce hypoglycemia;
• Women who are nursing or pregnant;
• Those scheduled for any medical procedures, especially invasive surgeries.

Always consult with your physician prior to starting any Fo Ti Tea supplementation program.

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