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Fo Ti Root Extract

Also known as: Fo Ti, He-Shou-Wu, Chinese knotweed, Fo Ti Root Extract, Polygonum multiflorum

Overview

Fo Ti Root Extract is derived from the root of *Polygonum multiflorum*, a plant extensively used in traditional Chinese medicine. It is primarily valued for its purported anti-aging, liver and kidney tonic effects, and benefits for hair health. The plant contains bioactive compounds such as tetrahydroxystilbene glucoside, emodin, and physcion. While traditionally used to support liver function, regulate lipid metabolism, and provide estrogen-like activity, research on Fo Ti is moderately mature, encompassing in vitro, animal, and some human data. However, robust clinical evidence is limited, and significant safety concerns, particularly hepatotoxicity, are associated with its use, especially with raw or improperly processed forms.

Benefits

Fo Ti exhibits several potential benefits, though many are primarily supported by in vitro and animal studies. It shows measurable estrogen bioactivity in vitro, approximately 1/300th the potency of 17β-estradiol, suggesting mild estrogen-like effects that might influence menopausal symptoms or hormone-related functions. Animal studies indicate that Fo Ti extracts can reduce advanced glycation end products (AGEs) linked to diabetes and improve insulin resistance through gut microbiota modulation. Compounds within Fo Ti have also demonstrated triglyceride and cholesterol-lowering effects in mice and in vitro models. Despite known hepatotoxicity risks, some constituents like tetrahydroxystilbene glucoside and emodin may offer protective effects on liver cells in animal studies. Additionally, preliminary studies suggest anti-inflammatory properties and potential antiviral activity against SARS coronavirus spike protein interaction.

How it works

The mechanism of action for Fo Ti involves its bioactive compounds interacting with various biological pathways. Its weak estrogenic effects are attributed to compounds that interact with estrogen receptors. Tetrahydroxystilbene glucoside and emodin are believed to modulate oxidative stress and inflammatory pathways, contributing to observed hepatoprotective and metabolic regulatory effects. Improvements in insulin sensitivity seen in animal models may be linked to the modulation of gut microbiota. Conversely, the hepatotoxicity associated with Fo Ti is thought to be immunologically mediated, potentially linked to specific anthraquinones and other constituents whose activity can be altered by processing methods.

Side effects

Fo Ti is associated with a significant risk of herb-induced liver injury (HILI), particularly when raw or unprocessed forms are consumed. Common symptoms of hepatotoxicity include jaundice, fatigue, anorexia, and hepatomegaly, typically manifesting within 1-2 months of use. The liver injury is often immunologically mediated and can be severe, though it is generally reversible upon discontinuation of the supplement. Specific risk factors include pre-existing liver disease or compromised liver function, making Fo Ti contraindicated in these populations. Middle-aged men appear to be more frequently affected by liver injury. There is a potential for interactions with hepatotoxic drugs or medications metabolized by liver enzymes, thus caution is advised. Safety in pregnant or breastfeeding women has not been established, and long-term use is not recommended without medical supervision due to the documented hepatotoxicity.

Dosage

Traditional dosing of Fo Ti varies widely, ranging from 3 g to 20 g per day in herbal preparations. However, there is no standardized dosing established from clinical trials due to the significant risk of hepatotoxicity. Processed Fo Ti root is generally considered safer than raw forms, as processing can reduce toxic constituents by approximately 55.8%. The timing and form (raw vs. processed) critically influence both the safety and efficacy of the supplement. Given the lack of standardized clinical guidelines and the potential for severe adverse effects, caution is strongly advised. Upper limits and safety thresholds are not well-defined, and medical supervision is recommended if considering use.

FAQs

Is Fo Ti safe for long-term use?

Due to documented hepatotoxicity, long-term use of Fo Ti is not recommended without strict medical supervision and monitoring of liver function.

Does Fo Ti promote hair growth?

Traditional use supports claims of hair growth benefits, but high-quality clinical evidence from human trials is currently lacking to substantiate this effect.

Can Fo Ti replace estrogen therapy?

Fo Ti exhibits weak estrogenic activity, approximately 1/300th that of 17β-estradiol, indicating it is not a suitable substitute for hormone replacement therapy.

How quickly do side effects appear?

Symptoms of liver injury, such as jaundice and fatigue, typically manifest within 1-2 months of starting Fo Ti supplementation.

Research Sources

  • https://academic.oup.com/jcem/article/88/9/4077/2845682 – This laboratory-based study by Klein et al. (2003) utilized an in vitro recombinant cell bioassay to demonstrate that Fo Ti extract possesses measurable estrogen bioactivity, estimated at approximately 1/300th the potency of 17β-estradiol. The findings suggest potential mild estrogenic effects, though the study did not include clinical correlation.
  • https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4471648/ – Bounda & Feng (2015) conducted a review of clinical and preclinical studies, highlighting the significant hepatotoxicity risks associated with raw Fo Ti. Their analysis indicated that processing the root can reduce toxic compounds by over 50%. While animal studies suggested some hepatoprotective effects from certain constituents, the overall clinical safety of Fo Ti remains a major concern.
  • https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8281430/ – Ballotin et al. (2021) performed a systematic review of herb-induced liver injury, identifying *Polygonum multiflorum* as the most common cause of HILI in China. The review noted that symptoms typically resolve upon discontinuation of the supplement, and the mechanism is likely immunologically mediated. The authors also advised against the use of corticosteroids for treatment.
  • https://www.drugs.com/npp/fo-ti.html – This source provides a general overview of Fo Ti, including its common names, traditional uses, and a summary of its purported benefits and potential side effects. It touches upon the metabolic effects and lipid regulation observed in animal studies, as well as the hepatoprotective effects of some constituents, while also acknowledging the significant hepatotoxicity risks.
  • https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-768/fo-ti – WebMD offers a concise summary of Fo Ti, covering its traditional uses, potential benefits, and crucial safety information. It emphasizes the risk of liver damage and advises caution, particularly for individuals with pre-existing liver conditions, and highlights the lack of sufficient evidence for many of its traditional claims.

Supplements Containing Fo Ti Root Extract

Factor (Human Growth Factor Formula) For Women by Prime
43

Factor (Human Growth Factor Formula) For Women

Prime

Score: 43/100
Hi-Potency Multi-Vitamin Delicious Natural Raspberry Flavor by Windmill
73

Hi-Potency Multi-Vitamin Delicious Natural Raspberry Flavor

Windmill

Score: 73/100
The 30 Day Beauty Secret by Futurebiotics
83

The 30 Day Beauty Secret

Futurebiotics

Score: 83/100

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