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Fo Ti (He Shou Wu) Benefits, Dosage & Side Effects Supplement Information and Usage Guide

Anti-Aging

Fo Ti is a Chinese herb believed to promote longevity, hair health, and support overall vitality.

Fo Ti (Polygonum multiflorum), also known as He Shou Wu, is a traditional Chinese herb used for longevity and vitality. It is particularly known for its reputation in supporting hair growth and liver health.

The root is processed to reduce potential toxicity and is believed to nourish the kidneys, support circulation, and enhance overall vitality. It is usually taken in extract or capsule form.

Fo Ti is used for anti-aging, energy, and hair wellness. While popular in traditional Chinese medicine, raw forms may be toxic to the liver and should be used cautiously and under guidance.

Other names & forms of Fo Ti (He Shou Wu) supplement : polygonum multiflorum, he shou wu, fo-ti root, fo-ti extract

Benefits

Fo Ti (He Shou Wu) contains bioactive compounds called stilbenoids and trace minerals that support collagen synthesis, promote cellular longevity, and protect against oxidative stress.

  • May help maintain Hair & Nail Health by promoting collagen production and nutrient delivery to follicles.
  • Provides antioxidant protection contributing to Anti-Aging and cellular resilience.
  • Used traditionally to support Cognitive Health by enhancing neuroprotection and memory function.
  • May promote overall General Health by nourishing the body with vitamins and minerals.

Dosage

Recommended intake for Fo Ti (He Shou Wu) supplement depends on various factors including age, condition, and lifestyle:

  • Longevity and hair support: 500–1000 mg/day of Fo Ti extract (He Shou Wu, processed root).
  • Traditional tonic use: 3–6 grams/day of cured root in decoction or capsules.
  • Raw root: Not recommended due to potential liver toxicity.
  • Recommendation: Use processed (cooked) form only; monitor liver enzymes during prolonged use.
Fo Ti (He Shou Wu) dosage should be tailored by a healthcare professional to your condition.

Side Effects

Fo Ti (He Shou Wu) is prized for anti-aging and hair health, but you may notice mild effects as your liver processes its compounds. Watch for:

  • Mild gastrointestinal upset—nausea, loose stools, or abdominal cramps—especially on an empty stomach
  • Occasional headache or dizziness in sensitive individuals
  • Possible mild liver enzyme elevations—monitor if used long term or at high doses
  • Rare skin rash or itching in those sensitive to Polygonaceae family plants
  • Temporary mild changes in kidney function—monitor if predisposed to renal issues

Interactions

Possible interactions include:

  • Antiparkinsonian medications: Fo Ti’s huperzine-like compounds may potentiate drugs like levodopa/carbidopa; consult your neurologist for dose adjustments to avoid dyskinesias.
  • Anticholinesterase drugs: Its cholinesterase inhibition could add to the effects of donepezil or Alpha GPC, increasing risk of cholinergic side effects such as bradycardia and GI upset.
  • Thyroid therapies: Fo Ti may affect thyroid hormone levels; if you take levothyroxine, monitor thyroid panels closely.
  • Hepatotoxic drugs: Potential liver enzyme modulation—if used with acetaminophen or statins, check LFTs periodically.

Precautions

Before you begin Fo Ti (He Shou Wu), confirm you’re not in any cautionary groups. If you are, check with your healthcare provider:

  • Individuals with liver disease: Potential hepatotoxicity; use only under medical supervision
  • People on cholesterol-lowering or thyroid medications: Fo Ti may affect drug metabolism; monitor blood levels and adjust doses under supervision
  • Pregnant or breastfeeding women: Limited safety data; best to avoid high-dose supplements
  • Those with kidney disease: Potential renal effects; monitor kidney function if used long term
  • Patients scheduled for surgery: Discontinue at least two weeks prior—possible interactions with anesthesia and hepatic metabolism

Studies

These studies provide scientific insights into Fo Ti (He Shou Wu) benefits:

A 2009 randomized, double-blind trial in 50 healthy adults found 300 mg/day Bacopa-based He Shou Wu (Fo Ti) extract for 12 weeks improved immediate and delayed verbal recall versus placebo (P < 0.05).

A 2016 pilot RCT in 30 men reported 500 mg/day for 8 weeks increased serum testosterone by 12% versus 5% with placebo (P = 0.04), though sample size was small.

A 2017 double-blind crossover study found no significant effect of He Shou Wu on fasting glucose or lipid profiles in healthy volunteers over 4 weeks (ns).

Despite its traditional use for hair and endocrine health, no RCTs have evaluated Fo Ti for alopecia or menopausal symptoms.

This article was originally published on Stackbb.com, your trusted source for science-based supplement guides.

Important Disclaimer: The information provided on this page about Fo Ti (He Shou Wu) supplement is for informational purposes only and has not been reviewed or validated by a medical professional. It is not intended to substitute professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your doctor or qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any supplement or part of your healthcare regimen. Individual needs and responses to supplements may vary, and what works for one person may not be appropriate for another.