Zhi He Shou Wu-Fo-ti cured root tuber-Polygonum multiflorum

Zhi He Shou Wu (Prepared Fo-Ti Root) is a sweet, slightly warm tonic herb in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), best known for nourishing Liver and Kidney blood, strengthening the essence (Jing), and darkening prematurely graying hair. It is the processed form of Polygonum multiflorum root, which has been cooked in black soybean juice to enhance its tonifying and blood-nourishing properties. Zhi He Shou Wu is widely used to treat blood deficiency, hair loss, dizziness, weakness in the lower back and knees, and premature aging.

Unlike the raw (Sheng) form, which is used more for detoxification and clearing toxins, the prepared (Zhi) form is gentle and focused on building strength and longevity.

Functions & Benefits

Nourishes Blood and Tonifies the Liver and Kidneys
• Used in blood deficiency with symptoms like dizziness, blurred vision, fatigue, and insomnia
• Strengthens the Liver and Kidneys in cases of lower back pain, weak knees, and aging-related decline
• Supports vitality and promotes graceful aging

Strengthens Essence and Prevents Premature Aging
• Tonifies Jing (essence), aiding in the treatment of premature graying hair, hair thinning, and infertility
• Supports bone strength and reproductive health in both men and women
• Commonly used as a longevity herb to maintain vitality over time

Darkens Hair and Promotes Hair Growth
• Traditionally used for hair loss and early graying linked to blood or Kidney deficiency
• Nourishes scalp and hair follicles from a TCM perspective

Moistens the Intestines and Relieves Constipation
• Gently moistens the bowels in cases of chronic dry constipation due to blood deficiency
• Can be supportive in elderly or postpartum patients

Indications (Who Can Benefit from It?)
✔ Individuals with fatigue, dizziness, blurred vision, or poor memory from blood deficiency
✔ People experiencing hair loss or premature graying of hair
✔ Patients with lower back weakness, knee pain, or reproductive decline
✔ Those with chronic dry constipation, especially the elderly or postpartum
✔ Individuals seeking long-term support for healthy aging and vitality

Tongue & Pulse Diagnosis in TCM
Tongue: Pale, possibly dry, with thin white coating (indicating blood or Yin deficiency)
Pulse: Thin, weak, or deep (blood or essence deficiency)

Related TCM Patterns
Liver and Kidney Deficiency – Dizziness, tinnitus, back pain, sexual weakness
Blood Deficiency – Pale complexion, fatigue, poor memory, scanty menstruation
Essence Deficiency – Premature aging, infertility, poor bone strength
Blood Deficiency with Dryness – Chronic dry stools or skin

Clinical Applications (For Reference Only)
Hair Loss or Graying – Nourishes Liver blood and essence to restore hair color and strength
Fatigue and Dizziness – Strengthens Kidney and Liver for improved vitality
Postpartum Weakness – Restores blood and essence after childbirth
Infertility – Used in men and women to enhance reproductive essence
Chronic Constipation – Gently moistens and supports regular bowel movements

Common Herbal Formulas with Zhi He Shou Wu
• Shou Wu Pian – Classic hair and longevity formula with prepared Fo-Ti
• Qi Bao Mei Ran Dan – For hair darkening, vitality, and fertility in aging patients
• Liu Wei Di Huang Wan (modified) – For blood and essence deficiency with weak lower body
• He Shou Wu Tang – Traditional decoction to nourish blood, Jing, and Liver function

Precautions & Contraindications
Not suitable for patients with dampness, phlegm, or diarrhea due to Spleen deficiency
Avoid in acute infections or colds, as it may trap pathogens inside
Long-term use should be monitored for liver function; extremely rare but documented hepatotoxicity
Do not confuse with Sheng He Shou Wu, which has purgative and detoxifying properties
Avoid raw form unless specifically indicated by a practitioner

Lifestyle & Dietary Recommendations
✔ Eat blood- and essence-nourishing foods like black sesame, walnuts, eggs, and dark berries
✔ Avoid excessive sexual activity and overwork to preserve Kidney essence
✔ Maintain regular sleep and gentle exercise to support Jing and Liver blood
✔ Massage the scalp and use gentle hair care to support blood flow to the follicles

Conclusion
Zhi He Shou Wu (Prepared Polygonum multiflorum) is a deeply nourishing tonic herb used to replenish Liver and Kidney essence, build blood, and support healthy aging. It is especially valued for treating fatigue, hair loss, back weakness, and reproductive decline, and is one of the best-known longevity herbs in TCM. Safe when properly used, it remains a cornerstone in both classic and modern tonic formulations.