Polygonum Multiflorum Benefits, Side Effects & Liver Damage Risk

Polygonum multiflorum is the botanic name for He Shou Wu or Fo Ti – an ancient herbal remedy used in Chinese medicine for anti-aging benefits.

Polygonum multiflorum is an herbaceous vining plant that is indigenous to central and south China. The roots of this plant have been used in traditional medicine for thousands of years.

Its popular usage stems mainly from historical records of its use for low libido, suppressed immunity, cardiovascular inefficiency and as a laxative. Extracts from this plant have not been studied extensively in clinical trials. Because of this, its physiological effects and side effects are not well defined.

Polygonum multiflorum extract supplements are marketed for purposes including combating aging, restoring sexual vigor, enhancing cellular health, stimulating the adrenal glands, detoxifying the blood and improving endocrine functioning.

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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Polygonum Multiflorum Uses

In Asia, Polygonum multiflorum is called he shou wu. In North America, it is called fo-ti. People use this natural herb for the following:

• Dermatological conditions like carbuncles, itching, skin eruptions and sores;
• Toning the blood and other vital humors (yellow bile, black bile, phlegm);
• Balancing lipid profiles in the cardiovascular system;
• Fortifying the bones, tendons and muscles;
• Detoxifying the kidneys and liver;

Other uses include treatment for lymph node tuberculosis, insomnia, premature greying, lower back and knee weakness, dizziness, tinnitus, high blood pressure (hypertension), constipation, prostatitis and cancer.

None of these or other uses of P. multiflorum have been validated via extensive human trials. Research is ongoing to determine the therapeutic benefits of this herb.

Polygonum Multiflorum Constituents

Research on Polygonum multiflorum shows that it contains alkaloid compounds. One alkaloid (2, 3, 5, 4′-tetrahydroxystilbene-2-O-beta-D-glucopyranoside (TSG)) in P. multiflorum is believed to induce restoring effects on brain cells, neurons and endocrine glands.

Polygonum multiflorum contains more than one hundred different phytonutrient (plant chemical) compounds. Some of these include stilbene glycosides, flavonoids and quinones which are known to exhibit beneficial physiological effects.

Polygonum multiflorum seems to stimulate the adrenals and encourage hepatic and renal detoxification.

Some secondary effects of this may include increased sexual desire, strengthened sexual performance, increased energy and restored hair growth.

This plant is also used to darken hair that has greyed prematurely. This is based on anecdotal reports of its effectiveness, though there are no clinical research studies that have examined this.

Polygonum Multiflorum and Heart Health

Hyperlipidemia, hypercholesterolemia and hypertriglyceridemia are conditions of blood lipid imbalance. They are associated with the development of arterial plaque which can cause atherosclerosis.

Subsequently, atherosclerosis may progress into CAD (coronary artery disease) which is the most prevalent cause of heart disease.

In some traditional medicine practices, Polygonum multiflorum extracts are used to reduce certain risk factors for of cardiovascular disease.

Research shows that TSG acts similarly to Atorvastatin, a drug used to block the production of cholesterol. This alkaloid demonstrates regulating effects on blood lipids and is being explored for its cardioprotective benefits.

Research has shown Polygonum multiflorum to:

• Decrease cardiac workload;
• Lower LDL cholesterol;
• Raise HDL cholesterol;
• Lower triglycerides;
• Induce vasodilation;

By relaxing the heart muscle and circulatory vessels via endothelial vasorelaxation, P. multiflorum may help to naturally increase blood delivery throughout all the body’s systems.

This helps to decrease heart rate and displace more blood with each beat of the heart, which can also have benefits for sexual performance and erectile function.

Polygonum Multiflorum Antioxidant Effects

Our cells are under constant attack from free radicals that cause cellular damage and mutation. Polygonum multiflorum extract supplementation may help the body to synthesize more of an antioxidant called superoxide dismutase (SOD).

This compound is imperative for combating the effects of oxidizing substances like free radicals, environmental pollutants, food additives and tainted water.

By increasing superoxide dismutase, P. multiflorum may help to reduce the effects of chronic exposure to radicals. This can help to stabilize cellular structures throughout the body and support general health and anti-aging efforts.

Polygonum Multiflorum for Liver Health

Animal research shows that P. multiflorum reduces fat deposits inside the liver. It has also been shown to protect liver cells from damage by toxins including dry cleaning fluid.

In one 28-day murine trial, oral administration of an aqueous solution of P. multiflorum affected the synthesis rates of transfer proteins and bile acid.

Polygonum Multiflorum Side Effects

In traditional medicine, Polygonum multiflorum is not associated with any serious or lasting side effects. It is known to induce laxative effects.

Other minor and temporary side effects may include bloating, flatulence, nausea and diarrhea.

However, there is very limited research into the safety of this supplement. Some research suggests that long-term use of He Shou Wu can cause dangerous side effects.

According to the Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database, oral usage is considered “possibly unsafe” for adults and children due to several reports of liver damage.

Check with your doctor to determine if this supplement is appropriate for you. You should also speak to a doctor before combining this supplement with any prescription or over-the-counter medications

Polygonum multiflorum can interact with certain medications and may be inappropriate for individuals with certain health conditions. Follow label instructions closely and self-monitor for any adverse effects.

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