Botanical Overview
Fallopia multiflora, commonly known as Fo-ti, He Shou Wu, or Chinese knotweed, is a member of the Polygonaceae family. The primary medicinal part used is the root, harvested mainly in East Asia, particularly China.
Energetics
This herb is considered warming and moistening in nature. Its taste profile includes bitter, sweet, and acrid flavors. It exhibits both ascending and descending directional qualities and is regarded as tonifying, especially for qi, essence, and blood.
Primary Actions
- Adaptogen
- Hepatoprotective
- Laxative
- Tonic
Indications
Western
- Hair loss
- Constipation
- Fatigue
- Liver dysfunction
Syndromes
- Liver and kidney yin deficiency
- Chronic constipation
TCM
- Premature graying of hair
- Weakness of knees and lumbar region
- Tinnitus
- Dryness of throat
Syndromes
- Kidney essence and liver blood deficiency
- Blood deficiency with wind stirring
Ayurveda
No traditional indications documented.
Unani
No traditional indications documented.
Constituents & Mechanisms
The root contains phytochemicals such as stilbenes, anthraquinones (including emodin and rhein), phlobatannins, tetrahydroxystilbene glucosides, and flavonoids.
Dosage & Preparations
- Decoction of root 6-12 g
- Tincture 1:5 40% ethanol, 2-5 mL 1-3x/day
- Powder 3-9 g/day
Safety & Contraindications
Use with caution due to reported potential hepatotoxicity; liver function monitoring is advised during use. Avoid in pregnancy and pre-existing liver disease. Interactions possible with hepatotoxic drugs and laxatives. Proper processing of the root is important to reduce toxicity risk.
Astrological Correspondences
No well-documented planetary or elemental rulerships identified for Fallopia multiflora.
Selected References
- Chinese Herbal Medicine: Materia Medica (3rd Ed.)
- Hepatotoxicity associated with Polygonum multiflorum: a review of pharmacology and toxicology
- European Medicines Agency Herbal Monograph: Polygonum multiflorum radix
- Phytochemical constituents and pharmacological activities of Polygonum multiflorum