He Shou Wu (Polygonum Root) – Polygonum multiflorum
Polygonum multiflorum; Polygoni Multiflori Radix
He Shou Wu (Polygonum multiflorum), also known as Fo Ti or Ho Shou Wu, is a traditional herb used in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). Its name translates as "He's Black Hair," referencing an old Chinese legend about a General He, whose stories center on this herb's place in classical longevity traditions. For centuries, it has been valued within TCM as a blood-nourishing herb supporting balance when patterns of blood deficiency arise.
In classical Chinese herbal medicine, He Shou Wu is commonly included in formulas designed to support blood nourishment and overall vitality according to traditional principles.
At Plum Dragon Herbs, we offer carefully sourced premium He Shou Wu bulk herb selected for quality, potency, and traditional authenticity.
Our herbs are ideal for:
• Herbal practitioners
• Custom herbal formulas
• Decoctions and teas
• Practitioner herb packs
Traditional Uses of He Shou Wu in Chinese Medicine
In Traditional Chinese Medicine, He Shou Wu is classified as a Blood-Tonifying Herb. Traditionally, it is used to:
• Nourish the blood
• Support essence and vitality in traditional contexts
• Benefit the Liver and Kidney in classical herbal theory
• Moisten dryness according to traditional principles
• Support balance in traditional longevity formulas
In classical herbal theory, He Shou Wu enters the Liver and Kidney channels, where it is traditionally used to restore balance when blood and essence deficiency arise.
Herbs Often Used With He Shou Wu
He Shou Wu is frequently combined with other herbs in traditional Chinese formulas, including:
• Shu Di Huang – strongly nourishes blood and yin
• Nu Zhen Zi – supports Liver and Kidney in traditional contexts
• Sang Shen – nourishes blood and yin
• Hei Zhi Ma (Black Sesame) – nourishes blood and essence
These herbs are commonly used together to create balanced formulas supporting blood nourishment and vitality according to classical principles.
Method of Preparation
Once tubers are selected from the crop, they are soaked and cleaned of any debris, then set to air-dry and sliced. The slices are boiled with prepared black soy beans according to traditional processing methods, then sun-dried. This steaming and drying process is traditionally repeated multiple times to achieve the finished prepared (zhi) form.
Premium Quality He Shou Wu
High-quality He Shou Wu should display several identifiable characteristics:
• Dark brown to reddish-brown root slices
• Firm texture with a characteristic cross-section pattern
• Mild, slightly sweet aroma
• Clean, uniform cuts with minimal debris
At Plum Dragon Herbs, our herbs are carefully selected and properly processed to preserve their traditional qualities.
Origin and Harvesting
Polygonum multiflorum is primarily grown in China, particularly in central and southern provinces. The medicinal portion used in Chinese herbal medicine is the tuberous root.
Traditionally:
• Roots are harvested in autumn
• Cleaned and trimmed
• Sliced and processed according to traditional methods
• Prepared for herbal use
How He Shou Wu is Traditionally Used
He Shou Wu may be prepared in several traditional ways.
Decoction
Simmer 9–15 grams in approximately 500 ml of water for 30 minutes.
Herbal Formulas
He Shou Wu is widely used in traditional Chinese herbal formulas, typically alongside other blood-nourishing herbs.
Always consult a qualified healthcare practitioner for dosage and individualized guidance.
Safety and Precautions
This herb should be used appropriately according to individual constitution.
Use caution if:
• Pregnant or breastfeeding
• Taking medications, particularly those affecting the liver
• Experiencing digestive sensitivity
• Using without professional guidance
Consult a qualified healthcare practitioner before using herbal products.
Additional Information
Botanical Name: Polygonum multiflorum
Common Names: He Shou Wu, Ho Shou Wu, Fo Ti, Fleeceflower Root, Polygoni Multiflori Radix
Flavor: Sweet, bitter, astringent
Temperature: Slightly warm
Channels Entered:
• Liver
• Kidney
Contraindications:
Use caution in cases of diarrhea or abdominal fullness. Traditional use should be guided by constitution and formula context. Use only the prepared (zhi) form for internal use.
Why Choose Plum Dragon Herbs?
At Plum Dragon Herbs, we specialize in authentic Chinese medicinal herbs sourced for quality and potency. Our herbs are selected and processed according to traditional standards to support the needs of practitioners, herbalists, martial artists, and enthusiasts alike.
Experience the tradition and quality of authentic Chinese herbs from Plum Dragon Herbs.
Important Disclaimer
The information provided on this page reflects traditional herbal knowledge and historical use within Chinese medicine and is intended for educational purposes only.
Plum Dragon Herbs products are raw botanical materials and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
Statements on this website have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using herbal products, particularly if you are pregnant, nursing, taking medications, or have a medical condition.
