Shou Wu Teng- Fo-ti stem-Polygonum multiflorum

Shou Wu Teng , also known as Polygonum multiflorum, is a herb used in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) that is closely related to its root, He Shou Wu (Fo-ti). While He Shou Wu is more commonly used, Shou Wu Teng, which refers to the vine of the plant, is used for slightly different therapeutic purposes.

Here’s a detailed breakdown of Shou Wu Teng based on TCM principles:
Introduction
Weinsch Shou Wu Teng, the vine of the Polygonum multiflorum plant, is used in TCM for its ability to promote the circulation of Qi and blood, strengthen tendons and bones, and improve overall vitality. It is often used as a part of herbal formulas to support the liver, kidneys, and reproductive health, although it is not as widely recognized as its root counterpart, He Shou Wu.
Ingredients

Shou Wu Teng (Polygonum multiflorum vine)

Functions & Indications

Strengthens Tendons and Bones: Shou Wu Teng is believed to help nourish the tendons and bones, providing support for physical vitality and flexibility.
Nourishes Liver and Kidneys: It is used to tonify the liver and kidneys, which is essential in TCM for maintaining the health of the bones, muscles, and reproductive systems.
Improves Blood Circulation: It helps improve the circulation of blood, making it useful for conditions related to stagnation or deficiency of blood, such as fatigue, muscle weakness, and joint pain.
Relieves Pain: Shou Wu Teng is used to ease pain in the muscles and joints by promoting blood flow and alleviating stasis.
Supports Reproductive Health: Similar to its root counterpart, Shou Wu Teng is used to support the reproductive system, especially in cases of weakness or fatigue due to kidney deficiency.

Tongue & Pulse

Tongue: A pale or swollen tongue can indicate blood deficiency or Qi stagnation, conditions which Shou Wu Teng can address.
Pulse: A weak or wiry pulse may suggest Qi or blood stagnation, for which Shou Wu Teng is beneficial to invigorate and nourish the body.

Related Concerns

Liver and Kidney Deficiency: Shou Wu Teng is used to support the health of the liver and kidneys, which can help with symptoms like low energy, back pain, and dizziness due to deficiency in these organs.
Blood Stagnation: It is often used in formulas to treat conditions related to blood stagnation, including pain, swelling, or poor circulation.
Joint and Tendon Weakness: The herb can be useful for individuals suffering from muscle or joint weakness, especially when caused by deficiency or stagnation.

Clinical Applications

Joint Pain and Muscle Weakness: Shou Wu Teng is commonly included in formulas to treat muscle or joint weakness, often due to Qi or blood deficiency.
Fatigue and Dizziness: It can be used to address fatigue and dizziness that result from blood or Qi stagnation, particularly when related to liver and kidney deficiency.
Reproductive Health: For people experiencing reproductive weakness, particularly due to kidney deficiency, Shou Wu Teng is often part of the formula to strengthen and nourish the system.

Side Effects

Mild Digestive Discomfort: Some people may experience digestive upset or bloating when using Shou Wu Teng, especially when taken in excess.
Allergic Reactions: Rare allergic reactions to Shou Wu Teng may occur, including skin rashes or itching.

Allergy

Those with known allergies to plants in the Polygonaceae family should avoid using Shou Wu Teng.

Shou Wu Teng is typically included in formulas such as Du Huo Ji Sheng Tang (for treating pain and weakness) and Jin Gui Shen Qi Wan (for kidney deficiency).