PORIA (Fu Ling) Mushroom: Boosts Digestion, Balance Energy, Support Spleen
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Few herbs are as revered in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) as Fo-Ti (Polygonum multiflorum), also known as He Shou Wu or “Chinese climbing knotweed.” For centuries, this nutrient-rich root has been used to promote vitality, longevity, and beauty from within, especially when it comes to hair health.
Used in tonics, teas, supplements, and even topical creams, Fo-Ti has earned a legendary reputation for its ability to nourish the liver and kidneys, strengthen the hair, and slow the signs of aging. Modern research is now beginning to validate what ancient healers knew all along, that Fo-Ti may be one of nature’s most effective herbal allies for hair growth and restoration.
In TCM, He Shou Wu is considered the holy grail of hair health. It’s deeply connected to the Kidney and Liver meridians, which are believed to govern hair growth, colour, and vitality. By nourishing these organ systems and replenishing Jing (life essence), Fo-Ti works at the root cause, promoting strong, lustrous, and healthy hair from within.
Fo-Ti root contains active compounds that stimulate the hair follicles and encourage new growth.
In a study published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology, researchers found that Fo-Ti extract significantly increased the number and size of hair follicles in mice. The results suggest that Fo-Ti may help to awaken dormant follicles and promote a thicker, fuller head of hair, offering a natural alternative for those experiencing thinning or shedding.
He Shou Wu’s most famous benefit is its potential to reverse or prevent premature greying.
For centuries, it’s been known as the “black hair herb,” a name inspired by the legendary Mr. He, whose white hair reportedly turned black again after taking the herb regularly.
Modern science supports this traditional claim.
A study published in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology found that Fo-Ti extract stimulates melanin production, the pigment responsible for hair colour in human hair follicle cells. This means it may help restore natural colour and prevent premature greying by reactivating melanin synthesis.
Fo-Ti is rich in antioxidants, which help protect hair follicles from oxidative stress and damage caused by free radicals. Free radicals can accelerate hair loss, weaken strands, and contribute to aging.
In a Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry study, researchers confirmed Fo-Ti’s strong antioxidant activity, suggesting that it can help defend against cellular damage while supporting overall scalp and follicle health.
Healthy hair starts with a healthy scalp.
Fo-Ti has been shown to improve blood circulation, ensuring that the scalp and hair follicles receive the oxygen and nutrients they need for optimal growth.
A study in the Journal of Traditional and Complementary Medicine found that Fo-Ti extract enhanced scalp blood flow in animal models , a key factor in delivering nourishment to the roots and maintaining thick, resilient hair.
Chronic inflammation of the scalp can damage follicles and hinder growth.
Fo-Ti’s anti-inflammatory properties help calm irritation and restore balance to the scalp environment.
Research published in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology showed that Fo-Ti extract reduced inflammation in hair follicle cells, further supporting its role as a natural tonic for hair health and scalp wellness.
Over time, the body naturally produces small amounts of hydrogen peroxide, which can build up in hair follicles and bleach the pigment cells (melanocytes). This leads to graying.
Fo-Ti helps neutralize hydrogen peroxide, protecting melanocytes and preserving natural color.
Fo-Ti also enhances melanin synthesis by activating specific cellular receptors (MC1R), while improving blood flow to the scalp. Together, these actions encourage richer pigmentation and better nutrient delivery to hair follicles.
Fo-Ti supports the transition from the resting (telogen) phase to the active (anagen) phase of the hair cycle by regulating the FGF-7 gene, which influences epithelial cell growth.
In a recent study, both oral and topical Fo-Ti were shown to promote hair growth. Oral Fo-Ti through the FGF-7 pathway, and topical Fo-Ti through activation of the Sonic Hedgehog (SHH) gene, which plays a key role in follicle regeneration.
The results from human studies are encouraging:
Always choose prepared Fo-Ti (Zhi He Shou Wu), as raw Fo-Ti can be harsh on the liver and is traditionally used only for detoxification purposes.
Our He Shou Wu extract makes it easy to bring this revered longevity herb into your daily rituals.
You can enjoy it in a few simple ways:
As a tea:
Add about ½ teaspoon of He Shou Wu extract to a cup of hot water. Stir well and sip slowly. The flavour is dark, earthy, and slightly bitter, grounding and comforting in its own way.
In your daily drinks:
Blend it into your coffee, cacao drinks, or smoothies for a rich, balancing tonic. It pairs beautifully with adaptogens and warming herbs, supporting your body’s energy and resilience.
In our alchemy blends:
You can also find He Shou Wu in two of our signature formulations – Passion and Modern Day Support, where it’s synergistically combined with other tonic herbs to nurture vitality, balance hormones, and support the nervous system.
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