Ho Shou Wu (Polygonum multiflorum)
Ho Shou Wu (Polygonum multiflorum) is a Traditional Chinese Medicine root whose primary bioactive compound, stilbene glycoside (2,3,5,4'-tetrahydroxystilbene-2-O-β-D-glucoside, or THSG), drives its antioxidant and neuroprotective properties. Emodin and other anthraquinones in the root modulate inflammatory signaling pathways, including NF-κB inhibition, and contribute to its historically claimed anti-aging effects.
Origin & History
Ho Shou Wu, also known as Polygonum multiflorum, is the dried root of a perennial vine native to China. It is traditionally processed by boiling with black soybeans or used raw, with extraction methods including water and alcohol to isolate its bioactive compounds.
Historical & Cultural Context
In Traditional Chinese Medicine, Ho Shou Wu has been used for centuries to address hair loss, aging, and other age-related conditions. It is listed in the Chinese Pharmacopoeia and is a staple in TCM practices, with both raw and processed forms offering different benefits.
Health Benefits
• May provide antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects (preclinical evidence) • Traditionally used for anti-aging and improving hair health (historical use) • Potential neuroprotective actions (preclinical evidence) • Contains compounds known for hepatoprotective effects (preclinical evidence, contradictory due to hepatotoxicity) • Used to promote wound healing (traditional use)
How It Works
The primary bioactive stilbene glycoside THSG activates the Nrf2/ARE pathway, upregulating endogenous antioxidant enzymes such as superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase to reduce oxidative stress. Emodin, an anthraquinone, inhibits NF-κB nuclear translocation, suppressing pro-inflammatory cytokines including TNF-α and IL-6. Additionally, THSG has demonstrated inhibition of monoamine oxidase B (MAO-B) and acetylcholinesterase in preclinical models, which may underlie reported neuroprotective and cognitive effects.
Scientific Research
There is a lack of specific human clinical trials or meta-analyses on Ho Shou Wu's efficacy. The referenced review (PMID: 27484243) discusses its hepatoprotective and hepatotoxic potential, but human trial specifics are missing.
Clinical Summary
The majority of evidence supporting Ho Shou Wu is preclinical, derived from in vitro cell studies and rodent models rather than robust human clinical trials. A small number of human studies and case reports exist, primarily focused on liver toxicity rather than efficacy outcomes, limiting quantifiable benefit data. One small Chinese clinical study suggested improvements in lipid profiles (LDL reduction) with processed He Shou Wu extract at doses of 10–20 g/day, but sample sizes were under 100 participants and methodological rigor was limited. Overall, evidence strength is currently insufficient to make definitive efficacy claims in humans, and regulatory bodies including the WHO have flagged the need for controlled trials.
Nutritional Profile
{"macronutrients": {"protein": "Approximately 1.5 grams per 100 grams", "fiber": "Approximately 2.0 grams per 100 grams"}, "micronutrients": {"iron": "Approximately 1.2 mg per 100 grams", "zinc": "Approximately 0.6 mg per 100 grams"}, "bioactive_compounds": {"emodin": "Approximately 1.1 mg per 100 grams", "chrysophanol": "Approximately 0.8 mg per 100 grams", "resveratrol": "Approximately 0.5 mg per 100 grams"}, "bioavailability_notes": "The bioavailability of these compounds can vary based on preparation methods and individual digestive health. Emodin and chrysophanol are known for their laxative effects, which may influence absorption rates of other nutrients."}
Preparation & Dosage
No clinically studied dosage ranges are available. Traditional uses include Shou Wu Pian at 2 tablets/day, which has been linked to liver injury. Consult a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement.
Synergy & Pairings
Black soybeans, ginseng, gotu kola, licorice, reishi
Safety & Interactions
Ho Shou Wu is associated with clinically documented hepatotoxicity, with over 400 case reports worldwide linking raw or processed root preparations to acute liver injury, including fulminant hepatic failure requiring transplant in rare cases. The processed form (Zhi He Shou Wu) is considered safer than the raw root, but neither is free of hepatotoxic risk, particularly with doses exceeding 15 g/day or prolonged use beyond 12 weeks. It may interact with hepatotoxic drugs (e.g., statins, acetaminophen), anticoagulants, and medications metabolized by CYP3A4 and CYP2C9 enzymes due to emodin's inhibitory effects on these pathways. Ho Shou Wu is contraindicated in pregnancy, active liver disease, and in individuals with a history of drug-induced liver injury.