🌿 Fo-Ti (Polygonum multiflorum)

Also known as: He Shou Wu • Chinese Knotweed • Flowery Polygonum
Family: Polygonaceae (not related to ragweed)
Origin: Native to China and East Asia
Parts used: Prepared root (traditionally steamed in black bean liquid)
Primary use: Internal

✨ Description

Revered for centuries as one of the great longevity herbs of Chinese medicine, Fo-Ti — or He Shou Wu, meaning “Black-Haired Mr. He” — is known for restoring vitality, nourishing the blood, and promoting graceful aging.
Legend says an elderly man regained his youth and black hair after using this root, and ever since, Fo-Ti has been cherished as the herb of rejuvenation and renewal.

Fo-Ti acts as a yin tonic, replenishing the body’s essence (jing) — the deep life force responsible for longevity, fertility, and resilience.
It supports the liver, kidneys, hair, and nervous system, bringing balance and grounding to those who feel drained, fatigued, or prematurely aged by stress.

🍵 Dried Herb Uses

As a restorative and anti-aging tonic:

Hair & Skin Vitality: Traditionally used to prevent graying and promote hair growth.
Energy & Longevity: Strengthens the kidneys and adrenals for sustained vitality.
Liver & Detox Support: Aids healthy liver function and blood purification.
Hormone & Fertility Support: Nourishes reproductive energy and libido.
Nervous System Support: Calms anxiety and rebuilds life force after exhaustion.

Directions (Internal Use):
Simmer 1 teaspoon of prepared Fo-Ti Root in 8–10 oz of water for 15–20 minutes.
Drink 1–2 cups daily as a tonic.
Pairs beautifully with Dong Quai, Reishi, or Astragalus for longevity blends.

(Note: Raw Fo-Ti is traditionally not used internally; it must be prepared through a steaming process to balance its chemistry.)

💧 External Uses

Add to herbal hair rinses or oils to strengthen the scalp and encourage hair growth.
Use in skin tonics or masks for rejuvenation and glow.

🔮 Metaphysical & Energetic Uses

Longevity & Renewal: Symbol of regeneration, patience, and enduring strength.
Balance & Grounding: Restores yin energy and anchors the spirit during change.
Youthful Spirit: Helps reconnect with vitality and joy.

Affirmation:

“My energy is timeless — I am restored, grounded, and renewed in every cell.”

🌿 Pairing Suggestions

Dong Quai or Rehmannia Root – for blood and hormonal balance.
Astragalus or Ginseng – for stamina and immune vitality.
Nettle Leaf or Burdock Root – for detox and hair health.
Reishi Mushroom – for stress relief and longevity synergy.

🌼 Harvest & Sourcing

Our Fo-Ti Root is ethically cultivated in the highlands of China, where it is traditionally steamed in black bean liquid to enhance its nourishing, restorative effects.
This ancient process transforms the root’s natural compounds, creating the rich, earthy aroma and deep color that mark authentic prepared Fo-Ti.

⚖️ Energetics & Taste

Taste: Earthy, slightly sweet, and bitter.
Energetic profile: Warming, moistening, and deeply nourishing.
Pairs well with: Dong Quai, Reishi, and Astragalus.

⚠️ Warnings

Only use prepared Fo-Ti internally — raw Fo-Ti may cause liver irritation.
Avoid with liver conditions or prescription medications without medical supervision.
Not recommended during acute illness or in pregnancy/nursing without guidance.

🌻 A Note from the Herbalist

Fo-Ti is the essence of renewal — the root that reminds us youth is not a number but a frequency.
It nourishes the deepest layers of the body and soul, helping restore what life’s challenges have depleted.
A tonic for longevity, beauty, and grounded strength — Fo-Ti whispers: rebuild slowly, shine endlessly.