Fo-Ti Root, Powder

Also Known As - Polygonum multiflorum, fleeceflower, zhi he shou wu 

Certified Organic - China

Overview - Chung Yun, a famous Chinese herbalist who reportedly lived to be 256 years old, used Fo ti on a daily basis. This herb is thought to have been responsible for both his long life and his legendary sexual prowess, (he was said to have had 24 wives). In another Chinese legend Fo ti was thought to be responsible for returning natural black colour to a previously gray-haired man- He Shou Wu means "black haired Mr. He."

Parts Used - Fo-ti is an herb. The processed (cured) root of the plant is used to make medicine.

Medicinal Uses - Fo-ti is used for treating tuberculosis that has spread to the lymph nodes, cancer,inflammation of the prostate (prostatitis), and constipation. It is also used as a liverand kidney “tonic”; as a blood and “vital essence” toner; and to fortify muscles, tendons, and bones. Fo-ti is also used for high cholesterol and other elevated bloodfats, trouble sleeping (insomnia), limb numbness, lower back and knee soreness orweakness, premature graying, hair loss, and dizziness with ringing in the ears (tinnitus). 

• Age-related memory problems. Early research suggests taking fo-ti root (Shenwu) along with Panax ginseng might improve memory in older people.
• Liver and kidney problems.
• High cholesterol.
• Insomnia.
• Lower back and knee soreness.
• Premature graying.
• Dizziness.

Fo-ti is applied directly to the skin for sores, carbuncles, skin eruptions, and itching.

Fo-ti cured root might affect the levels of various chemicals in the body which have been suggested to have anti-aging effects.

In manufacturing, fo-ti extract is used as an ingredient in hair and skin care products.

Don’t confuse fo-ti with the commercial product Fo-ti-Teng that contains no fo-ti.

Preparations - Teas and tinctures. Traditionally combined with jujubes and/or biota to treat insomnia. Sometimes found in capsule form.

Special Precautions & Warnings:

Pregnancy and breast-feeding: Fo-ti is unsafe to take by mouth during pregnancy. Fo-ti contains chemicals that can act like a strong laxative. The chemicals work by stimulating the intestine. Bulk-forming laxatives are a safer choice in pregnancy.

It is also unsafe to use fo-ti if you are breast-feeding. The chemicals that have a laxative effect can pass into breast milk and cause diarrhea in some breast-fed infants.

Not enough is known about the safety of applying fo-ti to the skin during pregnancy or breast-feeding. It’s best to avoid using it.

Diabetes: Fo-ti might affect blood sugar levels in people with diabetes. Watch for signs of low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) and monitor your blood sugar closely if you have diabetes and take fo-ti.

Hormone-sensitive conditions such as breast cancer, uterine cancer, ovarian cancer, endometriosis, or uterine fibroids: Fo-ti extract might act like estrogen. If you have any condition that might be made worse by exposure to estrogen, don’t use fo-ti.

Surgery: Fo-ti might affect blood sugar levels, so there is concern that it might interfere with blood sugar control during and after surgery. Stop using fo-ti at least 2 weeks before a scheduled surgery.

Disclaimer - These products are not intended to diagnose, treat cure or prevent any disease. Reviews are not intended as a substitute for appropriate medical care or the advice of a physician or another medical professional. Actual results may vary among users. Mountain Maus Remedies LLC makes no warranty or representation, expressed or implied, as to the accuracy or validity of the information contributed by outside product review submissions, and assumes no responsibility or liability regarding the use of such information. The information and statements regarding the dietary supplements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. If you have a medical condition or disease, please talk to your health care provider. If you are currently taking a prescription medication, you should work with your health care provider before discontinuing any drug or altering any drug regimen, including augmenting your regimen with any herb or dietary supplements. Do not attempt to self-diagnose any disease or ailment based on the reviews and do not use the information contained herein for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease. Proper medical care is critical to good health. If you have a health concern or suspect you have an undiagnosed sign or symptom, please consult a physician or health care practitioner.