Botanical name: Radix polygoni multiflori
Family: Polygonaceae
Common name: Fleeceflower, Chinese Knotweed
Properties: Bitter, sweet, astringent, slightly warm
Channels entered: Liver, lung, kidney

Actions and indications: It is used for treating lymph node tuberculosis, cancer, and constipation, also used orally as a liver and kidney tonic; as a blood and vital essence toner; nourishing muscles, tendons, and bones. He shou wu is also used orally for hyperlipidemia, insomnia, limb numbness, lower back and knee soreness or weakness, premature graying, and dizziness with tinnitus. Topically, Ho shou wu is used for sores, carbuncles, skin eruptions, and itching.

Contraindications: Ho shou wu should not be used by those with diarrhea or when there are phlegm conditions associated with spleen deficiency.

If you have any questions about the safety of any herb used in Chinese medicine, consult with Dr. April L. Schulte-Barclay, DAOM, LAc