He Shou Wu (Zhi) Cut Root 1 lb — Fo-Ti (Prepared Polygonum multiflorum) | Plum Flower
He Shou Wu (also called Fo-Ti, Shou Wu, or Polygonum multiflorum) is one of the most searched Chinese tonic herbs online—yet it’s also one of the most misunderstood. Shoppers commonly run into confusing listings like “raw vs prepared,” unclear processing, and missing safety guidance.
This page solves that. You’ll find a clear explanation of prepared (Zhi) He Shou Wu, how to use the cut form, what quality signals to look for, and what responsible consumers should know before using it.*
Important: This product is Prepared He Shou Wu (Zhi) and contains soy because traditional preparation commonly uses a black bean / soy bean processing step. Prepared form is the traditional standard for tonic-style use.*
Quick Facts
- Common names: Fo-Ti, He Shou Wu (Zhi), Shou Wu, Foti, Cured Fo-Ti
- Botanical name: Polygonum multiflorum (also seen as Reynoutria multiflora in some literature)
- Pin Yin name: He Shou Wu
- Form: Cut root (for decoction / extract)
- Package size: 1 lb
- Brand: Plum Flower
- Origin: China
- Ingredients: Prepared Fo-Ti root (processed); contains soy (traditional black bean/soy processing)
- Traditional properties (summary): Bitter, slightly acrid, cool (as provided)
- Channels (meridians): Heart, Liver, Gallbladder (as provided)
Best use format: This cut form is intended for decoctions (simmered tea) and for making liquid extracts. It is a tough root and can be difficult to grind at home.
What Is He Shou Wu (Zhi)?
He Shou Wu refers to the root of Polygonum multiflorum, a classic tonic herb in Chinese herbalism. You will see two major types in the marketplace:
- Raw (Sheng) He Shou Wu — unprocessed root
- Prepared (Zhi) He Shou Wu — traditionally processed (often with black beans/soy) to change its character for tonic-style use
Your product is the prepared (Zhi) version, and it contains soy due to the processing method described above.
Naturally occurring compounds commonly discussed in research and reference materials include: anthraquinones, phospholipids (lecithin), and stilbene glycosides such as 2,3,5,4′-tetrahydroxystilbene-2-O-β-D-glucopyranoside (TSG/THSG).
Note: Compound presence can vary by source, harvest, processing, and preparation method.
Raw vs Prepared (Zhi) He Shou Wu — The Difference
Processing is traditionally used to change the herb’s characteristics, and modern reviews discuss processing as one factor related to safety and chemical profile. For background, see the open-access review on traditional processing methods (including black bean processing) and phytochemistry. PMC reference.
| Type | What it is | Why shoppers care | What you’re buying here |
|---|---|---|---|
| Raw (Sheng) | Unprocessed root | Often searched for “detox” style uses; higher confusion and higher risk when used incorrectly | No |
| Prepared (Zhi) | Traditionally processed (commonly with black beans/soy) | The traditional tonic-style form; processing may alter chemistry and traditional use profile | Yes — this product |
Bottom line: If a listing doesn’t clearly state prepared (Zhi) vs raw (Sheng), consumers are right to hesitate. You should always know which one you’re buying.
Traditional TCM Properties (Educational)
In traditional Chinese herbalism, He Shou Wu is commonly discussed as a tonic herb associated with vitality and long-term nourishment strategies.* It is frequently referenced in the context of “Kidney” and “Liver” tonic traditions (traditional framework).
- Traditional theme: tonic-style nourishment and longevity traditions*
- Product properties provided: Bitter, slightly acrid, cool
- Channels provided: Heart, Liver, Gallbladder
*Traditional use language is educational and does not represent a medical claim.
How to Use Cut He Shou Wu (Decoction + Extract)
Option 1: Decoction (simmered tea) — best for cut root
This is a tough root. Many people simmer longer than soft herbs to extract more from dense root material.
- Typical educational range: 10–20g cut root
- Water: 4–6 cups
- Simmer time: 60–90 minutes (gentle simmer)
- Rinse quickly if desired (do not soak for long).
- Add herb + water to a pot.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce to a gentle simmer.
- Cover and simmer 60–90 minutes.
- Strain. Drink warm or cool.
Storage: Refrigerate extra tea up to 2 days.
Option 2: Liquid extract
Many customers prefer extracts for convenience. If you’re making an extract at home, use a trusted method and label your batch (date, herb amount, menstruum). If you want step-by-step tutorials, see our internal “how to” page:
How to Use Bulk Herbs (teas, decoctions, extracts, capsules, and more)
Cut vs Powder vs Capsules — which is best?
- Cut root: best for traditional decoctions and deep simmering
- Powder: convenient, but requires a good grinder (or buy pre-powdered)
- Capsules: convenient dosing; depends heavily on source and processing transparency
Dosage varies by person and context. Consult a qualified practitioner for personalized guidance.
What Does Fo-Ti Tea Taste Like?
Fo-Ti tea is typically earthy and deep. Some people find it slightly bitter depending on strength and simmer time. Many customers improve taste by:
- using it in a blend with naturally sweet roots (practitioner-guided)
- adding a slice of fresh ginger
- using it in broths instead of as a stand-alone tea
Plum Flower Quality Standards (Why This Matters)
One reason shoppers struggle with He Shou Wu online: many listings don’t show credible quality signals (identity, standards, handling). Plum Flower is widely distributed and typically emphasizes quality controls such as species validation and compliance with recognized materia medica standards.
- Plum Flower Premier Quality herbs are described as validated species listed in recognized references and sourced from indigenous regions for geo-authenticity (brand quality overview).
- Manufacturing commonly references GMP practices and quality checks (brand manufacturing overview).
Learn more:
COAs may be available upon request depending on lot and availability.
Safety, Cautions & Interactions (Please Read)
Responsible note: Polygonum multiflorum (He Shou Wu) has been associated with cases of liver injury in the scientific literature. Risk appears higher with long-term use, high doses, and potentially product variability. For balanced background, see open-access reviews here: PMC review (2015), PMC review on hepatotoxicity factors (2019), and PMC review (2020).
Do NOT use if:
- You are pregnant or nursing (unless directed by a qualified clinician)
- You have a known soy allergy (this product contains soy due to processing)
- You have known liver disease or a history of liver injury unless your clinician approves
- You have ongoing chronic diarrhea or significant digestive weakness (traditional caution)
Use caution if:
- You take prescription medications (ask a pharmacist/clinician about interactions)
- You plan to use daily for an extended period (discuss monitoring with a clinician)
Stop use and seek medical advice if you notice signs of liver stress
- dark urine
- yellowing of eyes/skin
- unusual fatigue
- persistent nausea or right-upper abdominal discomfort
This safety section is educational and not a substitute for medical care.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is this raw or prepared He Shou Wu?
This product is prepared (Zhi) He Shou Wu. Prepared forms are traditionally processed (commonly with black beans/soy). See the “Raw vs Prepared” section above.
Why does it say “contains soy”?
Traditional preparation often uses a black bean / soy bean processing step. Because of that processing method, the product is labeled as containing soy.
What is the cut form best for?
Cut root is best for decoctions (simmered tea) and for making liquid extracts. It is typically difficult to grind at home.
How long should I simmer He Shou Wu?
Because it’s a dense root, many people simmer for 60–90 minutes. Taste and strength depend on amount used and simmer time.
Can I take He Shou Wu every day?
Because literature reports liver injury cases with some products and use patterns, daily long-term use should be discussed with a qualified clinician. Use conservative, practitioner-guided approaches.
Does He Shou Wu support hair?
He Shou Wu has a long traditional reputation connected to hair and vitality traditions.* Modern literature discusses its compounds and pharmacology, but this page does not make disease or guaranteed outcome claims.*
What’s the best way to verify quality?
Look for clear labeling (prepared vs raw), reputable brand standards, and the ability to request documentation like a COA when available. Avoid listings with vague species/processing details.
Can I combine He Shou Wu with other herbs?
He Shou Wu is commonly used in formulas, but combinations should be practitioner-guided—especially if you take medications or have health conditions.
*Educational only. Not a medical claim.
PubMed / PMC Research Library
Review: hepatotoxicity evidence and immune-mediated liver injury discussion (open access, PMC)
Advances in the study of potential hepatotoxicity compounds and mechanisms (open access, PMC)
Toxicity of raw and processed roots of Polygonum multiflorum (Europe PMC record)
Review on Polygonum multiflorum-induced liver injury and risk factors (Frontiers in Pharmacology)
https://urbol.com/he-shou-wu/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4471648/
http://www.itmonline.org/arts/hsw_alert.htm
https://losrobleshospital.com/hl/?/21716/He-Shou-Wu
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5288971/
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1875536412600144?via%3Dihub
alternativehealing.org
https://herbpathy.com/Uses-and-Benefits-of-Polygonum-Multiflorum-Cid601
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
About Plum Flower Quality Herb Cut Bulk Herbs
Plum Flower is an established worldwide manufacturer of high-quality Chinese herbs, and innovative Chinese medicinal herbs and products. Plum Flower uses sulfur-free herbs and laboratory tests its products for contamination and heavy metals, such as mercury, lead, and pesticides.
Main Characteristics (Attributes) of Herbs
- Harvested at the proper level of maturity and correct time of the season to maximize potency.
- Free from Chlorine
- Manufactured without the use of sulphur
- Preservative Free
- Made at GMP internationally certified facilities (Good Manufacturing Practices) Quality control tests are done at the manufacturing site and at third party labs to confirm results
- Aluminum Phosphate free
- Packaged in an airtight sealed bag
- Pin Yin Names and Botanical Names are listed on the bag
- Certificate of Analysis are available upon request
- Conforms to Standards of Chinese Pharmacopeia
- No dyes, colors, or bleaching of the herbs
- We are a authorized direct distributor of Plum Flower Herbs.
- 500 gram bag size which equal anywhere from 4 to 6 cups of herb
Traditional Chinese Herbs
Chinese Traditional herbs should be regarded as an added feature to modern Western healthcare, and not as a replacement. Chinese traditional herbs (Teas) emphasize harmony and balance.
