He Shou Wu (Fo-Ti): Its History in Traditional Chinese Medicine

He Shou Wu is one of those botanicals with a long story behind it. You might have heard it mentioned alongside grey hair, vitality or longevity. The history is interesting, but it is important to separate traditional beliefs from proven benefits.

Also called Fo-Ti or Polygonum multiflorum, He Shou Wu comes from Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). It is not an Ayurvedic herb.

What is He Shou Wu?

He Shou Wu is the root of a climbing plant native to parts of China and neighbouring regions. Its name is associated with an old Chinese story about a man whose grey hair supposedly became dark again. It is a piece of folklore, not evidence that the root reverses greying or ageing.

Its place in Traditional Chinese Medicine

He Shou Wu has a long history in Chinese herbal practice. Traditional accounts connect it with hair, vitality and longevity, but those are historical uses and beliefs. They should not be taken as proof that it grows hair, restores hair colour or helps people live longer.

There is also a difference between raw and traditionally processed He Shou Wu. The preparation method matters when identifying a product, but processing does not remove the need to consider safety.

What to look for in a product

• Botanical name: look for Polygonum multiflorum, also known as Fo-Ti.
• Preparation: check whether the root is raw or processed, rather than assuming the two are interchangeable.
• Clear sourcing: look for traceable product information and batch details.
• Accurate information: be cautious of promises about anti-ageing, hair regrowth or guaranteed results.

Before using He Shou Wu

He Shou Wu has been associated with liver injury, including serious cases. This has been reported with both raw and processed products. Speak with a doctor or pharmacist before internal use, particularly if you take medication or have a medical condition. Avoid use if you have liver problems, during pregnancy or breastfeeding, or in children.

If you notice dark urine, yellowing of the skin or eyes, unusual fatigue or nausea after taking it, stop and seek urgent medical advice.

If you have a question about our 70g He Shou Wu powder or its batch information, get in touch. This guide gives background information and does not replace medical advice.

Further reading: LiverTox: Polygonum multiflorum (US National Library of Medicine).