Fo-Ti is a traditional Chinese herbal remedy derived from the root of polygonum multiflorum, a climbing plant native to China, now also widely grown in Taiwan and Japan. It is available in two forms: as unprocessed white Fo-Ti and processed red Fo-Ti, the red variety being considered the stronger of the two.
In Traditional Chinese Medicine, fo-ti is one of the herbs used to nourish the heart and calm the spirit. Do not however go to a Chinese herbalist and ask for fo-ti, for you will get only a curious look. The Chinese know the plant root as
he-shou-wu. Over the centuries he-shou-wu's reputation has bordered on the mythical for its power to produce longevity, increase vigour, and promote fertility
The literal English translation of Fo-Ti is "vine to pass through the night." With a distinctive sweet yet bitter taste, fo-ti was thought to unblock the channels of energy through the body, allowing the escape of the pathogenic influences that cause generalized weakness, soreness, pain, and fatigue. The plant is also used as a wash for itching and skin rashes.
Fo-Ti has been used in China for thousands of years as a longevity tonic under the name He Shou Wu (black haired Mr. He). This name refers to the 9th century legend of an old villager named Mr. He who took Fo-Ti and restored his black hair, youthful appearance and vitality and managed to father his first children at the age of 60. He lived to 130, maintaining his black hair.
Other health benefits attributed to Fo-Ti root include its ability to reduce cholesterol levels in the bloodstream and thus protect against heart diseases; its ability to rejuvenate endocrine glands, which strengthens the body; its anti-cancer properties, sedative effects and ability to improve mental health; plus its ability to enhance the memory and beneficial effects on female fertility.
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