Nutritional Supplement

Fo-Ti

Also indexed as: Polygonum multiflorum

  • Heart and Circulatory Health

    High Cholesterol

    Animal and laboratory research suggests the herb fo-ti may lower high cholesterol levels; however, this herb should be used with caution due to its unpredictable potential to cause liver damage.
    High Cholesterol
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    Fo-ti (Polygonium multiflorum) is an herb used in traditional Chinese medicine to slow aging and treat constipation and skin disorders. Research in animals and other laboratory models has indicated fo-ti may improve lipid metabolism and lower cholesterol levels by inhibiting cholesterol synthesis.3,4,5 Cases of liver toxicity related to the use of fo-ti have been reported, but the mechanism of liver injury remains unknown.6

  • Immune System Support

    Immune Function

    Preliminary research suggests that fo-ti plays a role in a strong immune system and has antibacterial action.
    Immune Function
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    Preliminary research suggests that plays a role in a strong immune system and has antibacterial action. More research is needed to further understand the potential importance of these effects.

  • Digestive Support

    Constipation

    The unprocessed roots of fo-ti possess a mild laxative effect.
    Constipation
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    The unprocessed roots of fo-ti possess a mild laxative effect. The bitter compounds in dandelion leaves and root are also mild laxatives.

What Are Star Ratings?
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Reliable and relatively consistent scientific data showing a substantial health benefit.
Contradictory, insufficient, or preliminary studies suggesting a health benefit or minimal health benefit.
For an herb, supported by traditional use but minimal or no scientific evidence. For a supplement, little scientific support.

Our proprietary “Star-Rating” system was developed to help you easily understand the amount of scientific support behind each supplement in relation to a specific health condition. While there is no way to predict whether a vitamin, mineral, or herb will successfully treat or prevent associated health conditions, our unique ratings tell you how well these supplements are understood by the medical community, and whether studies have found them to be effective for other people.

For over a decade, our team has combed through thousands of research articles published in reputable journals. To help you make educated decisions, and to better understand controversial or confusing supplements, our medical experts have digested the science into these three easy-to-follow ratings. We hope this provides you with a helpful resource to make informed decisions towards your health and well-being.

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Traditional Use (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.7 Since then, Traditional Chinese Medicine has used fo-ti to treat premature aging, weakness, vaginal discharges, numerous infectious diseases, angina pectoris, and erectile dysfunction.

References

1. Foster S, Yue CX. Herbal Emissaries: Bringing Chinese Herbs to the West. Rochester, VT: Healing Arts Press, 1992, 79-85.

2. Foster S. Herbal Renaissance. Layton, Utah: Gibbs-Smith Publisher, 1993, 40-1.

3. Xian Z, Liu Y, Xu W, et al. The Anti-hyperlipidemia Effects of Raw Polygonum multiflorum Extract in Vivo. Biol Pharm Bull 2017;40:1839–45.

4. Wang W, He Y, Lin P, et al. In vitro effects of active components of Polygonum Multiflorum Radix on enzymes involved in the lipid metabolism. J Ethnopharmacol 2014;153:763–70.

5. Gao X, Hu YJ, Fu LC. [Blood lipid-regulation of stilbene glycoside from polygonum multiflorum]. Zhongguo Zhong Yao Za Zhi 2007;32:323–6.

6. Teka T, Wang L, Gao J, et al. Polygonum multiflorum: Recent updates on newly isolated compounds, potential hepatotoxic compounds and their mechanisms. J Ethnopharmacol 2021;271:113864.

7. Foster S, Yue CX. Herbal Emissaries: Bringing Chinese Herbs to the West. Rochester, VT: Healing Arts Press, 1992, 79-85.

8. Bone K. Clinical Applications of Ayurvedic and Chinese Herbs. Warwick, Australia: Phytotherapy Press, 1996, 49-51.

9. Foster S. Herbs for Your Health. Loveland, CO: Interweave Press, 1996, 40-1.

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The information presented by TraceGains is for informational purposes only. It is based on scientific studies (human, animal, or in vitro), clinical experience, or traditional usage as cited in each article. The results reported may not necessarily occur in all individuals. For many of the conditions discussed, treatment with prescription or over the counter medication is also available. Consult your doctor, practitioner, and/or pharmacist for any health problem and before using any supplements or before making any changes in prescribed medications. Information expires December 2026.