Ho-Shou-Wu
(Polygonum Multiflorum)
By Robert Bidleman
Also known by the anglo propietary name of Fo-Ti-Tieng, this much honored
herb has been known in Asia for centuries for it's longevity and beneficial
rejuvenating effects. In fact it is the most important longevity herb even surpassing
ginseng and all other herbs for its use as a sexual tonic and youth preserver.
Ho Shou Wu is an extremely important herb in the Chinese system as it has
many properties useful to women and men of all ages.
It increases strength in the liver and kidneys as well as the bones and
muscles. It is known to calm the nervous system and clear the eyes.
Its strength comes the actions of cleansing the liver and kidneys. The root
accumulates large amounts of Chi which are beneficial to anyone who partake
of it much like Ginseng.
The Chinese tell a tale of a man who, sickly and impotent had lived into his 60's
without fathering a child. After many consultations with various doctors
to no avail he became depressed and drank himself into a stupor in the hills
near his home. When he awoke the first thing he saw was the strange sight
of two plants growing intertwined together in a symmetrical pattern.
Inspired by this he dug up the roots and took them to an old herbalist who
divined that they had great restorative powers. After several days of
taking the herb the man's virility was restored and after fathering 4 children
he lived to the age of 132. The man's name was Ho Shou Wu and the plant was
named after him.
Ho Shou Wu holds a mythological place in the Chinese herbal system. It's
ability to increase energy, preserve youth and restore impaired sexual
functioning has made it a favorite ingredient in Chinese patent medicine.
More current research has found it to be effective in reducing cholesterol
levels, doubtless due to the lecithin found in the root. Also used for lower
back pain, insomnia, premature hair loss and graying,* diabetes and hypo-
glycemia. It also strengthens muscles, tendons, ligaments and bones.
Ho Shou is the favorite tonic of China. Current research has shown Ho Shu Wu
to not only lower blood cholesterol and help prevent the retention of fats in
the blood stream but it may also "prevent the penetration of fats in the
arterial lining..." theoretically reducing atherosclerosis.
* Ho Shou Wu literally means "man with black hair/head"
This herb is processed by soaking in a decoction of black beans and water.
(Unprocessed Ho Shou Wu may cause a mild diarrhea). The usual dose of Ho Shou Wu is from 5
to 15 grams per day. For this reason the use of capsules and tablets containing small amounts of
this herb are not recommended as a threshold amount is necessary for desired effects.
A suggested usage is 10 grams per day.
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