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Fo-Ti |
Botanical name:
Polygonum
multiflorum
Parts used and where
grown
Fo-ti
is a plant native to China, where it continues
to be widely grown. It also grows extensively in
Japan and Taiwan. The unprocessed root is
sometimes used medicinally. However, once it has
been boiled in a special liquid made from
black
beans, it is considered a superior and rather
different medicine according to Traditional
Chinese Medicine. The unprocessed root is
sometimes called white fo-ti and the processed
root red fo-ti. According to Chinese herbal
medicine, the unprocessed root is used to relax
the bowels and detoxify the blood, and the
processed root is used to strengthen the blood,
invigorate the kidneys and liver, and serve as a
tonic to increase overall
vitality.
Fo-ti has been used in
connection with the following conditions (refer to the individual health
concern for complete
information):
| Health
Concerns |
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Constipation
High cholesterol
Immune
function |
Historical or
traditional use (may or
may not be supported by scientific
studies)
The
Chinese common name for fo-ti, he-shou-wu, was
the name of a Tang dynasty man whose infertility
was supposedly cured by fo-ti. In addition, his
long life was attributed to the tonic properties
of this herb. Since then, Traditional Chinese
Medicine has used fo-ti to treat premature
aging, weakness, vaginal discharges, numerous
infectious diseases, angina pectoris, and erectil
dysfunction.
Active
constituents
The
major constituents of fo-ti are anthraquinones,
phospholipids (e.g., lecithin), tannins, and
tetrahydroxystilbene glucoside. The processed
root has been used to lower cholesterol levels
in Traditional Chinese Medicine. According to
animal research, it helps to decrease fat
deposits in the blood and possibly prevent
atherosclerosis. However, human clinical
trials are lacking to support this use. Test
tube studies have suggested fo-tis ability to
stimulate immune function, increase red blood cell
formation, and exert an antibacterial action.
None of these effects has been studied in
humans. The unprocessed roots have a mild
laxative action.
How much is usually
taken?
The
typical recommended intake is 11 1/2 teaspoons
(48 grams) per day. A tea can be made from
processed roots by boiling 1/21 teaspoons (35
grams) in 1 cup (250 ml) of water for ten to
fifteen minutes. Three or more cups are
suggested each day. Five fo-ti tablets (500 mg
each) can be taken three times per
day.
Are there any side
effects or interactions?
The
unprocessed roots may cause mild diarrhea. Some people
who are sensitive to fo-ti may develop a skin
rash. Taking more than 15 grams of processed
root powder may cause numbness in the arms or
legs. | | | |
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