He Shou Wu Benefits｜Raw vs Processed Fo-Ti: What’s the Difference?

For centuries, He Shou Wu (Polygonum multiflorum Thunb.) has been celebrated in traditional Chinese medicine as a powerful tonic that slows down hair aging. With modern lifestyles leading to premature greying and hair loss, this ancient herb has regained attention. This article explores the key benefits of He Shou Wu, how processed Fo-Ti replenishes the liver and kidneys, nourishes the blood, and helps restore healthy, vibrant hair from within.

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TCM Insight: The Appearance and Functions of He Shou Wu

1. The Appearance of He Shou Wu

The name He Shou Wu originates from ancient tales of its ability to restore black hair. In classical Chinese medical texts, it is classified as a tonic herb known to nourish the liver and kidneys, enrich the blood, darken hair, and strengthen bones and tendons.

The raw herb comes from the dried, wrinkled tuberous root of the Polygonaceae plant, usually brownish or dark brown in color with a reddish-brown cross-section and a slightly bitter taste.

2. Raw He Shou Wu vs. Processed He Shou Wu: Key Differences

He Shou Wu exists in two forms: raw (sheng shou wu) and processed (zhi shou wu).

• Raw He Shou Wu contains higher levels of anthraquinone derivatives and is mainly used for detoxifying, reducing inflammation, and relieving constipation. However, it may cause liver toxicity and should not be consumed directly.

• Processed He Shou Wu, on the other hand, is treated with black bean juice and other methods to reduce toxicity. Its properties shift toward nourishing the liver and kidneys, replenishing essence and blood, and treating symptoms such as fatigue, greying hair, and weakness in the lower back or knees — making it the preferred form for hair darkening and strengthening.

3. Nourishing the Liver and Kidneys to Improve Hair Health

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), hair health is closely linked to the strength of the liver and kidneys, and the sufficiency of blood and essence.

He Shou Wu works by replenishing liver and kidney essence, thus promoting blood circulation to the scalp and supporting hair growth. It also helps darken grey hair, strengthen bones and tendons, and improve symptoms of deficiency such as dizziness, fatigue, and weak knees.

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Western Medicine Perspective: The Science Behind He Shou Wu and Hair Growth

Mechanism for Hair Darkening

Among He Shou Wu’s many properties, its ability to restore black hair is most recognized. Modern studies suggest that its antioxidant anthraquinone compounds may protect melanocytes in hair follicles and enhance tyrosinase activity, promoting melanin production — potentially restoring pigment to grey hair or slowing down premature greying.

Liver and Kidney Support for Hair Growth

By improving liver and kidney functions, He Shou Wu enhances scalp circulation and supplies essential nutrients to the hair follicles. Since liver and kidney deficiencies are common causes of anemia, fatigue, and hair thinning — particularly in women — processed Fo-Ti helps replenish these deficiencies, strengthening hair and improving scalp vitality.

Other Health Benefits

Beyond hair care, He Shou Wu also:

• Relieves constipation and detoxifies the body.
• Supports skin health and reduces inflammation.
• Helps regulate cholesterol levels.
• Boosts immune system function.

Together, these effects contribute to overall health, indirectly supporting stronger and healthier hair.

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How to Use He Shou Wu Safely? Recommended Uses for Processed He Shou Wu

Processed He Shou Wu can be used in multiple forms — boiled into herbal soups, ground into pills (such as the well-known Qi Bao Mei Ran Dan), or infused into tonic recipes with black bean juice. It’s also available in capsule and tablet form for easier daily supplementation.

Safety and Precautions

Safety is key when using He Shou Wu.

• Raw Fo-Ti should never be consumed directly due to potential liver toxicity.
• Even processed forms should be used with caution by individuals with liver conditions, pregnant women, or breastfeeding mothers. Always consult a qualified practitioner before use and avoid taking the herb alongside iron-rich medications or supplements.

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Who Should Use He Shou Wu?

• Grey or White Hair: Ideal for those experiencing premature greying — He Shou Wu’s main benefit is to restore natural hair color.
• Dry or Damaged Hair: Its blood- and essence-nourishing effects help restore shine and elasticity to brittle strands.
• Thinning Hair or Early Hair Loss: With its ability to nourish the liver and kidneys and strengthen the scalp, it’s perfect for improving hair density and follicle health.

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Who Should Avoid or Use He Shou Wu with Caution

• Very Oily Scalp: Since most He Shou Wu products are nourishing, they may be too rich for oily scalps, potentially clogging follicles or worsening greasiness.
• Individuals with Damp-Phlegm or Weak Digestion (in TCM terms): Over-tonifying herbs may aggravate internal dampness or cause mild diarrhea. Consultation with a TCM practitioner is recommended.

In short: He Shou Wu is most suitable for those with grey or thinning hair caused by deficiency, while those with oily scalps or excess internal dampness should choose lighter, oil-control formulas.

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