He Shou Wu "Black Haired Mr. He" Polygonum multiflorum Fo Ti

The root of this plant, traditionally processed with black-beans, is a blood and longevity tonic. It is often used to darken prematurely grey hair. For this purpose it must be taken 1-3 months to see a result. The root is taken in decotions and is even used in shampoos. It is also useful in treating coronary heart disease as it increases Red Blood Cell count and decreases fat. It can also be used as unproccessed to treat malaria or fire poison. The process root is mildly laxative, the unprocessed root has a stronger effect.

Dr. Jian-Feng Yang of Seattle told our class a story about this herb. He said that there was a town of centurians in China, significantly more centurians compared to other towns. Researchers studied this town and interestingly they found that the water well was surounded by this vine. This herb is said to enter the Kidney and Liver meridians. It is bitter, sweet, astringent and slightly warm in nature.

Dose for processed root in decoction is 10-30g

This herb is contraindicated for Diabetes patients, because it increases then decreases blood sugar levels.

Ye Jiao Teng is the stem of this plant. It is useful for treating night sweats when given in decoction made with 12-30g. It is said to guide the Yang Qiao meridians Qi to the Yin Qiao meridian. It treats pain and ache due to blood deficiency leading to stagnation, with symptoms of difficult sleeping. This herb calms the spirit and nourishes the Heart blood.

The leaves can be applied to bug bites to reduce stinging sensation.

Harvest and Preparation:
Harvest the root in spring or autumn after growing 3-4 years. Autumn harvested roots are reputedly the best quality. Slice the roots into smaller pieces before drying. In some areas of China the roots are boiled prior to drying to prevent the root from becoming pulpy. To process cut slices of the root approximately 3/8th inches thick.

For 10 lbs of He Shou Wu, first prepare black bean decoction by boiling 180 g black beans in water for 4 hours. The amount of water that is added to the beans should be enough that the yeild from the drained decoction is 270 mLs. Then add additional water to the beans and boil again, the 2nd drained decoction should yeild about 180 mLs. Combine the 2 decoctions and add to 10 lbs He Shou Wu. Simmer the roots in the black bean decoction until all the liquid is absorbed. White wine can also be added to the decoction. Use a non-metal pot for processing the root.

Details on harvest and preparation ratios were derived from Herbal Emmissaries by Steven Foster and Yue Chong-Xi. 1992. Healing Arts Press, Vermont.