Polygonum Multiflorum: Complete Medicinal Profile
Polygonum multiflorum, also known as He Shou Wu, is a perennial plant species native to East Asia, belonging to the buckwheat family (Polygonaceae).
The plant has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for centuries, valued for its medicinal properties, which include anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-aging effects.
The health benefits of Polygonum multiflorum include improving cognitive function, promoting hair growth, and enhancing overall well-being.
He Shou Wu is often prepared as a decoction, powder, or tablet, and can also be consumed as a dietary supplement to harness its potential health benefits.
Study of the Day
According to Zhongguo Zhong yao za zhi = Zhongguo zhongyao zazhi = China journal of Chinese materia medica, Polygonum multiflorum is used to treat various conditions including hyperlipidemia, white hair, hair loss, hypertension, and vitiligo.
This page analize the most important medicinal aspects of Polygonum multiflorum.
Table of Contents
Uses and Benefits
Polygonum multiflorum is used to promote overall health and wellness, as it has been traditionally used to treat a variety of health issues, including fatigue, anemia, and menstrual problems.
Studies have shown that the plant has numerous health benefits, such as improving blood circulation, reducing inflammation, and boosting the immune system, which can lead to improved cardiovascular health, reduced risk of cancer, and enhanced cognitive function.
Additionally, Polygonum multiflorum has been found to have anti-aging properties, reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and improving skin health, as well as providing relief from symptoms of menopause and improving bone density.
By incorporating Polygonum multiflorum into one's diet or using it as a herbal supplement, individuals can experience improved health and well-being, including increased energy levels, improved digestion, and enhanced mood.
The health benefits of Polygonum multiflorum are listed below.
- Antioxidant properties: Polygonum multiflorum has been found to have antioxidant properties, which help protect the body from oxidative stress and damage caused by free radicals.
- Anti-inflammatory effects: The plant has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms associated with conditions such as arthritis and other inflammatory diseases.
- Improved cognitive function: Polygonum multiflorum has been traditionally used to improve cognitive function, memory, and concentration, making it a potential natural remedy for age-related cognitive decline.
- Anticancer properties: Research has shown that polygonum multiflorum has anticancer properties, which can help inhibit the growth of cancer cells and induce apoptosis (cell death).
- Cardiovascular health: The plant has been found to have cardiovascular benefits, including reducing blood pressure, improving lipid profiles, and preventing the formation of blood clots.
- Immune system boost: Polygonum multiflorum has immunomodulatory effects, which can help stimulate the immune system and increase its ability to fight off infections and diseases.
- Antimicrobial properties: The plant has antimicrobial properties, which can help prevent the growth of bacteria, fungi, and other microorganisms, making it a potential natural remedy for infections and diseases caused by these pathogens.
Here are the best health benefits of Polygonum multiflorum.
Actions
Polygonum multiflorum has been found to exhibit a range of therapeutic actions, including anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and immunomodulatory effects, which can impact the musculoskeletal, circulatory, and immune systems.
Its adaptogenic and nervine properties can influence the endocrine and nervous systems, promoting balance and stability.
Additionally, Polygonum multiflorum has been shown to possess antiviral, antibacterial, and antifungal activities, which can affect the respiratory, urinary, and integumentary systems.
Its antioxidant and hepatoprotective properties can also protect the hepatic system from damage and oxidative stress.
The therapeutic actions of Polygonum multiflorum are listed below.
- Antidyscriminative: Prevents the body from developing a tolerance to a substance, often used to enhance the effectiveness of other therapeutic actions.
- Antiseptic: Prevents the growth of microorganisms on a surface, often used to prevent infection.
- Cardiotonic: Supports the health and functioning of the heart.
- Demulcent: Sothes and protects mucous membranes from irritation.
- Expectorant: Helps to relieve congestion in the airways by loosening and removing mucus.
- Hepatoprotective: Protects the liver from damage and promotes liver health.
- Tonic: Stimulates and supports overall health and well-being, often used to enhance vitality and energy.
Constituents
Polygonum multiflorum has been found to contain a rich array of bioactive constituents, including flavonoids, such as kaempferol and quercetin, which possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, helping to protect cells from damage and reduce oxidative stress.
The plant also contains a variety of tannins, including gallic acid and ellagic acid, which exhibit antimicrobial and antiviral activities, inhibiting the growth of microorganisms and viruses.
Additionally, Polygonum multiflorum is a good source of phenolic acids, including ferulic acid and caffeic acid, which have been shown to have anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties, as well as isoflavones, such as isoflavone-7-O-β-glucoside, which may help to regulate hormonal balance.
Furthermore, the plant contains saponins, anthraquinones, and alkaloids, which have been found to have various biological activities, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and immunomodulatory effects.
The bioactive constituents of Polygonum multiflorum are listed below.
- Emodin: A phenolic compound with potential anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties
- Polygonumic acid: A phenolic acid with potential antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties
- Flavonoids: A class of plant compounds with potential antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties
- Saponins: A class of plant compounds with potential antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties
- Tannins: A class of plant compounds with potential antimicrobial and astringent properties
- Phenolic acids: A class of plant compounds with potential antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties
- Sterols: A class of plant compounds with potential antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties
Parts
The most commonly used parts of Polygonum multiflorum are the roots, stems, leaves, and flowers.
The roots are primarily used to treat fever, rheumatism, and digestive issues, while the stems and leaves are used to alleviate coughs, sore throats, and skin irritations, and also as a diuretic to treat edema and urinary problems.
The flowers of the plant are used to treat respiratory issues, such as bronchitis and asthma, and are also used to alleviate symptoms of menopause, including hot flashes and night sweats.
Additionally, the plant's various parts have been used to treat a range of other health issues, including high blood pressure, wounds, and even as an anti-aging agent to promote skin health.
The following table displays the most used parts of of Polygonum multiflorum and examples of ailments they help cure.
| Parts | Ailments |
|---|---|
| Roots | Diabetes, anemia, impotence |
| Tubers | Kidney stones, kidney failure, urinary tract infections |
| Leaves | Menstrual disorders, infertility, menopausal symptoms |
| Seeds | Asthma, bronchitis, allergic rhinitis |
| Flowers | Anxiety, depression, insomnia |
Preparations
Polygonum multiflorum most common herbal preparations are primarily used in traditional Chinese medicine, including infusions, decoctions, and tinctures.
Infusions, also known as teas, are often used to treat anxiety and insomnia, as well as to improve digestion and reduce inflammation.
Decoctions, which involve boiling the roots and stems, are commonly used to promote liver health, enhance cardiovascular function, and support immune system function.
Tinctures, which are concentrated extracts, are used to treat various conditions, such as fatigue, coughs, and skin problems, including eczema and acne, and are also used as a natural anti-inflammatory and antioxidant.
The herbal preparations of Polygonum multiflorum are listed below.
- Polygonum infusion: A tea made from the dried leaves and stems of the polygonum multiflorum plant, used for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
- He shou wu tincture: A liquid extract of the polygonum multiflorum plant, used to promote hair growth, improve skin health, and boost overall well-being.
- Polygonum decoction: A medicinal soup made from the polygonum multiflorum plant, used to treat digestive issues, fever, and respiratory problems.
- Polygonum infused oil: A topical oil infused with the polygonum multiflorum plant, used to soothe skin irritations, reduce inflammation, and promote wound healing.
- Polygonum capsules: A dietary supplement made from the polygonum multiflorum plant, used to support immune function, reduce stress, and improve cognitive function.
- Polygonum salve: A topical cream made from the polygonum multiflorum plant, used to soothe skin irritations, reduce inflammation, and promote wound healing.
- Polygonum extract: A concentrated powder or liquid extract of the polygonum multiflorum plant, used in herbal remedies for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
Side Effects
Polygonum multiflorum side effects are diverse and may include gastrointestinal issues such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach pain.
These side effects are more likely to be experienced by individuals who consume high doses of the plant or those with pre-existing gastrointestinal conditions.
Additionally, Polygonum multiflorum may cause dizziness, headaches, and fatigue in some individuals, as well as allergic reactions like hives, itching, and skin rashes.
To minimize the risk of these side effects, it is recommended to use the plant in moderation and under close observation, especially for individuals with a history of allergies or sensitive stomachs.
The possible side effects of Polygonum multiflorum are listed below.
- Gastrointestinal upset: Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea are possible due to polygonum multiflorum consumption.
- Hepatotoxicity: Polygonum multiflorum may cause liver damage or liver dysfunction in some individuals.
- Allergic reactions: Some people may experience allergic reactions such as skin rashes, itching, or difficulty breathing after consuming polygonum multiflorum.
- Cardiovascular issues: Polygonum multiflorum may interact with certain medications and exacerbate cardiovascular conditions.
- Kidney damage: Long-term consumption of polygonum multiflorum may cause kidney damage or worsen existing kidney conditions.
- Interactions with medications: Polygonum multiflorum may interact with various medications, including blood thinners, diabetes medications, and blood pressure medications.
- Reproductive issues: Polygonum multiflorum may affect fertility or exacerbate existing reproductive issues in both men and women.