Single Herb Glossary
Hé Shǒu Wū (Zhì) (制) 何首烏
| Pharmaceutical name | Polygoni multiflori Radix preparata proc. fleeceflower root, proc. flowery knotweed root "prep. crow-black-haired [Mr.] He" |
| Category | Tonify Blood |
| Key Properties | Nourishes Blood & Yin Preserves Essence |
| Properties | Bitter Sweet Astringent Slightly Warm |
| Tropism | LV, KD |
| Actions & Indications | 1) Tonifies LV & KD, Nourishes Blood, and Augments Essence 2) Expels Wind from the Skin by Nourishing Blood |
| Dosages | 9-30g |
| Contraindications (TCM) | CI: Loose stools or significant Dampness or Phlegm |
| Contraindications (Western) | |
| Chemical Composition | Chrysophanol, emodin, sennoside, physcion, questin, citrosein, questinol, 2-acetylemodin, chein, chrysophanol anthrone, rhapontin, tricin, calcium, iron, zinc, copper |
| Pharmacological Effects | • Cardiovascular: injection of 20% He Shou Wu preparation has marked effect to reduce heart rate in frogs; this effect is milder than meperidine hydrochloride • Antihyperlipidemic: administration associated with increase in HDL and decrease in triglycerides and cholesterol, as demonstrated in various laboratory studies • Antiaging: administration retards aging process and increases the life expectancy of subjects in many laboratory studies • Immunostimulant: administration associated with increase in T-lymphocytes and white blood cells, and increased activity of macrophages in mice • Gastrointestinal: increases intestinal peristalsis, moistens bowel, and promotes bowel movement • Endocrine: administration associated with increase in hormonal secretion by adrenal and thyroid glands |
| Herb-Drug Interactions | |
| Classical Formula(s) |
He Ren Yin (Fleeceflower Root and Ginseng Drink) 何人飲 Qi Bao Mei Ran Dan (Seven treasure special pill for beautiful whiskers) 七寶美髯丸 |
This information is a reference tool for Chinese herbal studies. It is not intended to replace professional medical advice. Please consult a primary health professional if you require health advisory.