Herbs (Global Traditional) · Traditional Chinese Medicine
Polygonum (Polygonum multiflorum) (Polygonum multiflorum)
Moderate Evidencebotanical3 PubMed Studies
Hermetica Superfood Encyclopedia
Polygonum multiflorum contains stilbene glycosides and anthraquinones that modulate oxidative stress pathways and hair follicle metabolism. Clinical studies demonstrate 71.25% effectiveness in vascular dementia patients and significant hair growth promotion through dermal papilla cell activation.
Polygonum multiflorum Thunb., commonly called Heshouwu in China, is a traditional Chinese medicine derived from the root of a perennial climbing plant native to East Asia. The herb is typically prepared as an extract or processed product, with methods such as steaming or fermentation designed to reduce hepatotoxicity while maintaining therapeutic activity.
Clinical evidence remains limited, with a randomized trial in vascular dementia showing 71.25% effectiveness rate using Shouwu yizhi capsules. A Phase I trial of STD07 (Physcion extract) demonstrated safety at doses up to 250mg/day for 14 days in healthy volunteers. Most evidence comes from in vitro and animal studies rather than large human trials, as noted by researchers citing lack of economic incentives for herbal research.
Clinically studied dosages include STD07 (Physcion extract) at up to 250mg/day orally for 14 days, and Shouwu yizhi capsules for vascular dementia (specific dose not provided in trials). Processing methods like steaming or fermentation are used to reduce hepatotoxicity. Consult a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement.
Polygonum multiflorum (He Shou Wu) is a Traditional Chinese Medicine herb valued primarily for its bioactive compounds rather than macronutrient content. **Key Bioactive Compounds:** • **Stilbene glycosides:** 2,3,5,4'-tetrahydroxystilbene-2-O-β-D-glucoside (TSG) is the principal active marker compound, typically present at 1.0–7.0% in processed root (standardized to ≥1.0% per Chinese Pharmacopoeia); exhibits potent antioxidant and neuroprotective activity. • **Anthraquinones:** Emodin (0.1–1.5%), physcion, rhein, chrysophanol, and their glycosides; raw (unprocessed) root contains higher anthraquinone content (~1.0–3.0%) compared to processed root (~0.2–0.8%); emodin is associated with both hepatoprotective effects and dose-dependent hepatotoxicity. • **Tannins:** Condensed tannins including catechin, epicatechin, and gallic acid derivatives (~3–5% of dried root); contribute to astringent properties and antioxidant capacity. • **Phospholipids:** Lecithin present at approximately 1.2–3.7%, which may contribute to lipid metabolism and cognitive support effects. • **Polyphenols:** Total polyphenol content approximately 5–12% (varies by processing method); includes gallic acid, catechin, and proanthocyanidins. • **Polysaccharides:** Water-soluble polysaccharides approximately 4–10% of dried root; exhibit immunomodulatory and prebiotic properties. **Minerals (per dried root):** Iron (~15–50 mg/100g), zinc (~3–8 mg/100g), manganese (~2–6 mg/100g), selenium (trace amounts ~0.01–0.05 mg/100g); iron and zinc content may contribute to traditional claims of blood-nourishing properties. **Other constituents:** Small amounts of starch (~20–45%), crude protein (~5–10%), crude fiber (~8–15%), and trace lipids (~1–3%). **Bioavailability Notes:** TSG has moderate oral bioavailability (~30–40% in animal models) with rapid absorption (Tmax ~0.5–1 hour) but undergoes significant first-pass metabolism and glucuronidation. Emodin has relatively low oral bioavailability (~7–10%) due to poor aqueous solubility and extensive hepatic metabolism via glucuronidation and sulfation. Processing (steaming with black bean juice, 'Zhi He Shou Wu') significantly reduces free anthraquinone content (reducing hepatotoxicity risk) while preserving or concentrating stilbene glycosides and polysaccharides. Raw unprocessed root has a laxative profile due to higher anthraquinone glycoside content, while processed root is considered tonic and safer for long-term use.
Stilbene glycosides in Polygonum multiflorum activate antioxidant enzyme systems and modulate inflammatory cytokines. The compound 2,3,5,4'-tetrahydroxystilbene-2-O-β-D-glucoside enhances dermal papilla cell viability and counteracts DHT-induced hair follicle miniaturization. Anthraquinones support melanocyte function by reducing oxidative damage to cellular membranes.
One clinical trial demonstrated 71.25% effectiveness in vascular dementia patients, though sample size and methodology details are limited. Cell culture studies show dermal papilla cell viability increases and reversal of dihydrotestosterone effects on hair follicles. Additional research on melanocyte protection exists but clinical translation remains unclear. Current evidence is preliminary and requires larger controlled trials for definitive therapeutic claims.
Polygonum multiflorum may cause hepatotoxicity, particularly with processed forms containing higher anthraquinone concentrations. The herb can interact with warfarin and other anticoagulants due to its effects on blood clotting mechanisms. Contraindicated during pregnancy and breastfeeding due to potential teratogenic compounds. Patients with liver disease should avoid use, and regular liver function monitoring is recommended during supplementation.
