Botanical Overview
Polygonum multiflorum (family Polygonaceae) is a perennial twining vine native to East Asia, widely known by common names such as Chinese knotweed, Fo-ti, and He Shou Wu. The primarily used medicinal part is the root, traditionally employed in Chinese herbal medicine.
Energetics
Polygonum multiflorum is considered to have a neutral temperature and moistening quality. Its taste profile is sweet and bitter, with a descending and inward directionality characteristic. It is tonifying in nature, primarily nourishing the blood, essence, and yin.
Primary Actions
- Tonifying to liver and kidney yin
- Moistening laxative effects
- Antioxidant and anti-aging properties
- Hair growth support and pigmentation restoration
Indications
Western
- Constipation
- Fatigue
- Hair loss
- Premature aging
Syndromes
- Chronic constipation
- Liver dysfunction
- Kidney deficiency
TCM
- Gray hair
- Insomnia
- Weakness
- Dizziness
Syndromes
- Liver and Kidney yin deficiency
- Blood deficiency
- Premature aging
Ayurveda
No well-established traditional indications.
Unani
No well-established traditional indications.
Constituents & Mechanisms
This species contains phytochemicals such as stilbenes (notably tetrahydroxystilbene glucoside), anthraquinones including emodin, flavonoids, and phytosterols, contributing to its antioxidant, laxative, and tonifying properties.
Dosage & Preparations
- Decoction: 6-12 g of root daily
- Extract powder: 1-3 g daily
- Tincture (1:5, 40% ethanol): 2-3 mL, 2-3 times daily
Safety & Contraindications
Use with caution due to reported hepatotoxicity risk; contraindicated in pregnancy and liver disease. Potential interactions with hepatotoxic medications and liver-metabolized drugs exist. Not recommended during lactation. Clinical supervision advised.
Astrological Correspondences
No well-documented planetary or elemental rulers established for this species.
Selected References
- Phytotherapy Desk Reference – Polygonum multiflorum – He Shou Wu
- WHO Monographs on Selected Medicinal Plants, Volume 2 – Polygonum multiflorum Thunb.
- NIH NCCIH – Goutweed and He Shou Wu (Polygonum multiflorum)
- Journal of Ethnopharmacology – Hepatotoxicity associated with Polygonum multiflorum