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He Shou Wu (Fo-Ti) Powder / Capsule

A traditional supplement preparation using He Shou Wu (Fo-Ti) (Polygonum multiflorum), addressing hair loss, fatigue, cholesterol.

supplementstcmBeginner⏱ 10–20 minutesShelf life: 6–12 months stored cool and dryDosage: 500 mg – 1 g, 1–3× daily

Generated from this herb's full profile — safety warnings, contraindications, and sourcing.

Benefits

Hair LossFatigueCholesterolAgingFertilityLongevity

Ingredients

  • He Shou Wu (Fo-Ti) — As needed

Instructions

  1. Grind dried He Shou Wu (Fo-Ti) into a fine powder.
  2. Fill size 00 capsules or stir into smoothies or honey.

Interactions & contraindications

He Shou Wu (Fo-Ti)

Full profile
  • Pre-surgery — discontinue at least 2 weeks prior (potential antiplatelet effect)
  • Active liver disease — monitor liver enzymes with long-term use
  • Significant kidney impairment — diuretic herbs may worsen renal function

No herb-specific pregnancy/child safety research is documented for He Shou Wu (Fo-Ti) in our references — the guidance below is based on its general effect category, not research on He Shou Wu (Fo-Ti) itself. Always confirm with a midwife, doctor, or pediatrician.

Pregnancy

Avoid

This herb is associated with hormone-modulating activity. Because pregnancy is a uniquely hormone-sensitive state, herbs in this category are generally avoided unless specifically guided by a midwife or doctor — this is a general, mechanism-based caution, not herb-specific research.

Breastfeeding

Use Caution

Hormone-modulating herbs can potentially affect milk supply or pass hormone-active compounds to the infant — generally used cautiously and under guidance.

Children

Avoid

Hormone-modulating herbs are generally avoided in children given the sensitivity of ongoing hormonal development.

May have a stimulant effect

Watch for: Other caffeine-containing products, MAOIs, and stimulant medications (for ADHD or weight loss)

Additive stimulant effects can raise heart rate and blood pressure.

May thin the blood

Watch for: Anticoagulants (warfarin), antiplatelets (aspirin, clopidogrel), and other blood-thinning herbs or supplements (ginkgo, garlic, fish oil, vitamin E)

Combining blood-thinning substances can increase bleeding risk, including before surgery or dental work.

May affect hormone levels

Watch for: Hormone therapies, oral contraceptives, and tamoxifen or similar medications

Some herbs have mild phytoestrogenic or hormone-modulating activity that can interact with hormonal medications.