3He Shou Wu – Fleeceflower Root – Radix Polygoni Multiflori

He Shou Wu (Fleeceflower Root) is a slightly warm, bitter, sweet, and astringent herb in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) known for tonifying the Liver and Kidneys, nourishing the blood, and strengthening the tendons, bones, and hair. It comes from the processed root of Polygonum multiflorum and is one of the most famous longevity herbs in TCM. Traditionally used to preserve youth, promote vitality, and restore hair color, He Shou Wu is also valued for supporting fertility, enhancing energy, and aiding recovery from chronic illness. In its raw form, it is used to clear fire toxins and treat certain skin conditions, while the prepared form (Zhi He Shou Wu) is primarily for tonification.

Functions & Benefits

Tonifies the Liver and Kidneys
Supports vitality, sexual health, and overall strength, especially in cases of deficiency.

Nourishes Blood and Benefits Hair
Promotes hair growth, helps prevent premature greying, and improves hair quality.

Strengthens Tendons, Bones, and Lower Back
Improves mobility, eases weakness, and supports joint and bone health.

Moistens the Intestines and Relieves Constipation
Gently aids bowel movement in cases of dryness or Yin deficiency.

Clears Fire Toxin (Raw Form)
Used for boils, sores, and skin conditions caused by heat-toxin.

Indications (Who Can Benefit from It?)
✔ Individuals with fatigue, low back and knee weakness, or premature aging signs.
✔ People with early hair loss or greying.
✔ Those recovering from chronic illness or weakness.
✔ Patients with dry constipation from Yin or blood deficiency.

Tongue & Pulse Diagnosis in TCM
Tongue: Pale or slightly red with little coating, reflecting deficiency.
Pulse: Thin, weak, or deep, depending on the pattern.

Related TCM Patterns
Liver and Kidney Yin or Essence Deficiency – Causes weakness, premature aging, and infertility.
Blood Deficiency – Leads to dizziness, pallor, and poor hair health.
Dry Intestinal Constipation – Results from Yin and blood depletion.

Clinical Applications (For Reference Only)
Premature Hair Greying – Nourishes Liver and Kidneys, supports hair pigment.
Infertility from Deficiency – Tonifies essence and improves reproductive health.
Chronic Weakness – Restores vitality after long-term illness.
Constipation from Dryness – Moistens intestines and aids gentle elimination.

Common Herbal Formulas with He Shou Wu
Often combined with Dang Gui and Bai Shao for blood nourishment, or with Gou Qi Zi and Shu Di Huang for Kidney and Liver support.

Precautions & Contraindications
Avoid in cases of dampness, phlegm, or loose stools.
Raw form is not suitable for deficiency without heat-toxin symptoms.
Excessive use may cause loose stools or liver stress in sensitive individuals.

Lifestyle & Dietary Recommendations
✔ Eat black sesame seeds, goji berries, and walnuts to support Liver and Kidney health.
✔ Avoid excessive stress and overwork, which deplete essence.
✔ Practice moderate exercise such as Tai Chi or walking for joint and bone strength.
✔ Ensure sufficient sleep for optimal restoration.

Conclusion
He Shou Wu (Fleeceflower Root) is a renowned longevity herb in TCM that nourishes the Liver and Kidneys, strengthens tendons and bones, benefits hair, and supports fertility and vitality. It is especially suited for individuals with deficiency-related aging signs, chronic weakness, or hair health concerns.