Fleece-flower Root (Heshouwu)
| Pharmaceutical Name: | Radix Polygoni Multiflori |
| Botanical Name: | Polygonum Multiflorum Thunb. |
| Common Name: | Fleeceflower root, Fo-ti root, Chinese Foxglove root |
| Source of Earliest Record: | Kaibao Bencao |
| art Used & Method for Pharmaceutical Preparations: | The tuberous roots are dug in autumn or spring. They are cleaned, cut into slices and dried in the sun. |
| Properties and Taste: | Bitter, sweet, astringent, and slightly warm |
| Meridian: | Liver and kidney |
| Functions: | To nourish blood and replenish essence To moisten the intestines and move stool To release toxins |
| Indications and Combinations: | 1. Deficient blood syndrome manifested as sallow complexion, dizziness, vertigo, insomnia, early graying of hair and soreness and weakness in the lumbar region and knees. *Use with Prepared Rehmannia root (Shudihuang), Grossy privet fruit (Nuzhenzi), Wolfberry fruit (Gouqizi), Dadder seed (Tusizi) and Mulberry mistletoe (Sangjisheng). 2. Constipation due to dryness in the intestines. *Use with Chinese angelica root (Danggui) and Hemp seed (Huomaren). 3. Chronic malaria due to weakness of the body. *Use with Ginseng (Renshen) and Chinese angelica root (Danggui) in the formula He Ren Yin. 4. Scrofula. *Use with Prunella spike (Xiakucao) and Tendrilled fritillary bulb (Chuanbeimu). |
| Dosage: | 10-30 g |
| Cautions: | This herb is contraindicated in cases with severe phlegm-damp or diarrhea. |