Descripton Fo Ti has a long history of use in Chinese Traditional Medicine to treat discomfort of the liver and the kidney, because it was considered by ancient Chinese to have the ability of complementing “Yin”, which is essential to keep the balance of a healthy human body. Also as it was thought by ancient Chinese that “the luster of hair is dependent on the function of the kidney”, Fo Ti has been widely used as a cosmetics both taken orally and externally to polish and blacken the hair. 

Function:The main active ingredients in Fo Ti P.E. are Phosphatide, Emodin, Rhein and etc. Fo Ti P.E. has been reported to enhance immunity and shown the ability of anti-aging. This herb is widely used to nourish the blood, reproductive essence ('jing') and lubricative moisture ('yin') of the body. This 'moistening' approach is vital in many restorative or 'anti-aging' herbal combinations. In T.C.M. (Traditional Chinese Medicine) the brain, reproductive essence and bone marrow are all functions of the 'water element'. This herb is also used to help hair retain its original color. Modern research indicates value in lowering cholesterol, liver dysfunctions, blood pressure, atherosclerosis, arteriosclerosis, and constipation.

1. Anti-aging Effects

Pharmacology studies show that ho-shou-wu extract improves the cardiovascular system, enhances immune functions, slows the degeneration of glands, increases antioxidant activity, and reduces the accumulation of lipid peroxidation, all of which may be taken into account for anti-aging effects of ho-sou-wu. Such findings suggest that ho-shou-wu is helpful in combating some of the processes that lead to conditions characteristic of old age, thereby also reducing the risk of fatal diseases (e.g., cancer) and incidents (e.g., heart attack, stroke).

2. Hepatic Protection

Ho-shou-wu extract was shown to have effects on the hepatic antioxidant system superoxide dismutase (SOD), accumulation of lipid peroxidase, enhancement of cell-mediated immune responses, and lowering cholesterol, all of which are helpful and preventive for liver dysfunctions.

3. Alopecia & premature graying of hair

Ho-shou-wu has also been investigated to treat alopecia and premature graying of hair. Alopecia may arise from numerous causes. According to the English-Chinese Encyclopedia of Practical Traditional Chinese Medicine, "alopecia is mostly caused by deficiency of liver and kidney with subsequent failure of [blood to go up and nourish] the hair." In a clinic test, ho-shou-wu containing preparation given three times per day to bald patients for 1-3 months resulted in a 62% effective rate. In a similar test, ho-shou-wu containing preparation cured 30 of 36 persons affected by alopecia areata, with 4 others improved.

4. Constipation
The anthraquinones containing in ho-sou-wu extract tend to cause soft stool and may even cause slight diarrhea, which is helpful for patients suffering from constipation.

Dosage:12:1Extraction: 500mg-800mg, in two doses, on an empty stomach

Safety:

People suffering from DIARRHEA and PREGNANT women are improper to take it. Mild nausea, vomiting, abdominal distention, and loose bowel movements may be experienced after overdose.

Reference

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