Below are some of the main benefits associated with fo-ti root (or he shou wu):

1. Has Anti-Inflammatory Effects
2. Can Improve Skin Health
3. May Promote Hair Growth and Reduce Gray Hair
4. Relieves Constipation
5. Can Help Improve Sleep Quality
6. May Help Increase Estrogen and Manage Menopause Symptoms
7. May Fight Age-Related Memory Problems

1. Has Anti-Inflammatory Effects

In terms of fo-ti’s chemical structure, the herb has been shown to contain bioactive compounds, including:

• Chrysophanic acids like anthrone and chrysophanol
• anthraquinone
• emodin
• rhein
• lecithin
• stilbene glucosides

Both in vivo and in vitro studies have demonstrated that anti-inflammatory effects of fo-ti’s bioactive constituents occur by inhibition of the expression of pro-inflammatory signaling factors, including nuclear factor-κB, tumor necrosis factor-α, nitric oxide synthase and chemokines. Studies published in the aforementioned Pharmacognosy Research review suggest that fo-ti may have effects similar to prescription anti-inflammatory agents that are used to treat conditions like inflammatory bowel diseases and dyslipidemia. Additionally, a traditional use of fo-ti is maintaining the strength and stability of the lower back and knees by reducing aches associated with aging and inflammation.

2. Can Improve Skin Health

Fo-ti is used in certain skin care and hair products and can be applied directly to the skin to help treat many different ailments, such as acne, sores, carbuncles, skin eruptions, itching, athlete’s foot, dermatitis, razor burn and scrapes. Fo-ti can protect the skin thanks to its antibacterial and antiinflammatory effects, according to WebMD.

3. May Promote Hair Growth and Reduce Gray Hair

Some use fo-ti to help prevent premature graying of the hair, thinning hair or hair loss. In fact, because it is said to bring color back to graying hair, the Chinese translation of he shou wu is “Mr. He’s Black Hair.” A 2017 study conducted on various animal species that was published in the Journal of Advanced Pharmaceutical Technology & Research found evidence that fo-ti used at safe doses can act as a potential agent for the treatment of early hair graying and other loss pigmentation-related diseases. (4) Fo-ti seems to significantly induce melanin synthesis, having a positive effect on hair pigment.

4. Relieves Constipation

Raw fo-ti root acts as a natural laxative, helping reduce constipation and promote regularity. When used for this purpose, it’s recommended that you take the root short term, for about two or three days. (5) Taking laxatives long term may result in loose stools, dehydration and diarrhea, so use precaution when using raw fo-ti tea, tinctures or capsules in this way.

Resources: https://draxe.com/nutrition/fo-ti/