Chinese Fleeceflower

Botanical

What is it

Chinese fleeceflower (Polygonum multiflorum, also called Fo-Ti or He Shou Wu, and now classified as Fallopia multiflora or Reynoutria multiflora) is a vine whose root is used in traditional Chinese medicine for longevity, hair, and liver complaints.

Evidence for 1 use

AI-assisted evidence assessment — talk to your doctor before relying on any single supplement.

Hair color and growth (traditional use)

Mixed Evidence

Traditional Chinese medicine credits Polygonum multiflorum with restoring hair color and growth. Modern controlled clinical evidence is not adequate to confirm these effects.

How it works

The root contains stilbenes (notably 2,3,5,4'-tetrahydroxystilbene-2-O-beta-D-glucoside), anthraquinones (emodin, chrysophanol), and polyphenols. Preclinical studies suggest antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and cholesterol-lowering activity. The processed (cured) form is traditionally distinguished from the raw root because raw root has stronger laxative and hepatotoxic potential.

Dosage

Traditional preparations use 3-30 g/day of processed root. Supplement labels vary; many products do not clearly indicate whether the root is processed.

When and how to take it

No formal timing guidance. Limit duration of use and avoid in combination with other hepatotoxic substances.

2 commercial forms

Compare the main delivery options and what they’re best suited for.

Processed (cured) Polygonum root

Traditional Chinese medicine standard form.

Processing reduces but does not eliminate hepatotoxic compounds

Raw Polygonum root

Higher hepatotoxicity risk; less commonly used in supplements.

Higher anthraquinone content; stronger laxative

Safety

Hepatotoxicity is a well-documented serious adverse effect. Numerous case reports of liver injury, including acute liver failure, have been linked to Polygonum multiflorum use. Risk is higher with raw root and chronic use.

Who should be cautious

Avoid in pregnancy, breastfeeding, liver disease, in children, and during alcohol use. Anyone considering long-term use should monitor liver enzymes and consult a clinician.

Interactions

Potential additive hepatotoxicity with other liver-stressing medications and supplements. May interact with anticoagulants (via emodin) and laxatives.

Frequently asked questions

Is Fo-Ti or He Shou Wu safe?⌄

There is documented risk of liver injury, including serious cases. Use under qualified supervision with liver monitoring.

Does it really restore hair color?⌄

Traditional use credits it with this effect, but rigorous clinical evidence is not available.

References

Chinese Fleeceflower on NIH DSLD (US supplement label database) — NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database link

Research on Chinese Fleeceflower (PubMed search) — PubMed link

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Evidence-based·How we grade evidence

Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This page is educational, not a substitute for personalized medical advice. Evidence grades are AI-assisted assessments — talk to your doctor before starting any new supplement, especially if you’re pregnant, breastfeeding, on medications, or managing a chronic condition.