Ho Shou Wu
Ho Shou Wu (sometimes spelled He Show Wu, and mistakenly called foti (foti comes from a different species of this plant)) extract is a tonic derived from the roots of plant called Black haired Mr He, scientifically called Polygonum multiflorum, typically by the process of boiling (and thereby evaporating) with 1/10 part black beans.
Although this herb has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for at least 1500 years there is little in the way of formal study that has been done on this herb therefore the information about it is difficult to verify as to its validity. Perhaps the most prominent and most obvious benefit of Ho Shou Wu is its reversal of gray hair, especially in those suffering from premature graying. Perhaps for this reason, Ho Shou Wu has been included in many anti-aging formulations. Additionally Ho Shou Wu is used for alternative treatment of the following conditions: to lower high blood cholesterol, to enhance or restore the proper function of blood cells, muscles, tendons and bones; to correct blurred vision, dizziness with tinnitus, epilepsy, insomnia, neuritis, schizophrenia, acne, diabetes, digestion problems, impotence , sexual dysfunction, knee pain, lower back pain, numbness of limbs, and weak connective tissue; to enhance immune system function. Ho Shou Wu is also for various kidney and liver ailments though with potentially serious side effects (see below.)
The few studies that have been done on Ho Shou Vu show significant promise in anti-aging. One such study found that the life-span of fruit files that were fed Ho Shou Wu extract was increased by an average of 12%. Another small study found that about 88% of those with gray hair who took Ho Shou Wu were able to regain their hair original color, at least to some degree. There are some findings that show a rejuvenation of some vital organs and body functions, especially in the elderly taking Ho Shou Wu. The efficacy of Ho Shou Wu with many ofthe other ailments listed here have not been verified with any known traditional study however much of the benefit of Ho Shou Vu has been attributed to its high contents of superoxide dismutase, an important and powerful antioxidant which may improve many bodily functions.
Ho Shou Wu is included in several male enhancement formulations for its known ability to increase sexual drive and energy and according to historical origins of this plant, it may eliminate impotence. There is no verifiable proof of any of these benefits though many users do claim of He Shou Wu's ability do all of these.
Though Ho Shou Wu is considered a safe herb with no side-effects, there have been at least 7 cases of improper liver function attributed to Ho Shou Wu, though these finding are not necessarily a direct result of Ho Shou Wu but perhaps interactions with other drugs. The side effects included abnormal liver function, jaundice, and hepatitis. All of these case are reported to have these side effects reversed once the intake of Ho Shou Wu was removed from the diet. It is advised that caution be taken with Ho Shou Wu and that you first consult with your physician before adding Ho Shou Wu to your diet (as with any other herb or medication.)