India has one of the highest rates of micronutrient deficiency in the world — and the supplement market is growing fast to meet it. But with hundreds of products on Amazon.in and little regulation, knowing what to actually buy is harder than it should be. This guide covers He Shou Wu (Fo-Ti) from first principles: what it is, what the evidence says, and how to use it safely in an Indian context.
What is He Shou Wu (Fo-Ti)?
Polygonum multiflorum is a TCM tonic traditionally used for longevity, hair darkening, and kidney/liver nourishment.
He Shou Wu (Fo-Ti) is relevant for anyone dealing with Premature graying. It primarily acts on the Liver.
How does He Shou Wu (Fo-Ti) work?
The herb contains anthraquinones (emodin, physcion) and stilbenes (2,3,5,4’-tetrahydroxystilbene-2-O-β-D-glucoside,
Who should take He Shou Wu (Fo-Ti)?
Adults considering this herb should weigh the traditional benefits against documented liver risks. Not recommended for
The typical dose is 500–1000 mg/day of processed (zhi) root extract. With meals
Safety and who should avoid it
AVOID if you have any liver condition, history of hepatitis, or take hepatotoxic medications (acetaminophen, statins,
Always consult your doctor before starting any new supplement, particularly if you are on prescription medication or have an existing health condition.
How to combine He Shou Wu (Fo-Ti)
He Shou Wu (Fo-Ti) works well alongside astaxanthin. The Ayurvedic tradition has long used bhumi amalaki, kutki for similar purposes — these can complement rather than replace each other.
Buying guide for India
When shopping on Amazon.in, prioritise products that clearly state:
- The standardised active compound percentage
- Third-party testing (NSF, USP, or Informed Sport)
- The form of He Shou Wu (Fo-Ti) (extract vs whole herb vs isolate)
- Vegetarian capsule certification if that matters to you
Generic “natural” or “herbal” labels without standardisation information are a red flag. The price difference between a well-made and a poorly-made He Shou Wu (Fo-Ti) supplement is often small — the difference in efficacy is not.
Bottom line
He Shou Wu (Fo-Ti) has Key citations: Abenavoli 2010 (hepatoprotection systematic review), Cacciapuoti 2013 (NAFLD RCT). ri for Premature graying. Used consistently at the right dose, it is a reasonable addition to a wellness protocol for those dealing with these concerns.
Supplements mentioned
He Shou Wu (Fo-Ti)
Herb · 500 mg · 60 caps
People also ask
What is the best time to take He Shou Wu (Fo-Ti) in India?
Is He Shou Wu (Fo-Ti) available in India and what brands should I look for?
Can vegetarians and vegans take He Shou Wu (Fo-Ti)?
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