Fo-ti
Fo-ti, also called He Shou Wu, is the root of Polygonum multiflorum, a climbing plant used in traditional Chinese medicine.
Also listed as Polygonum multiflorum, Pleuropterus multiflorus, Shou Wu, Fo-Ti Extract
The main concern is liver injury
LiverTox describes injury beginning within days or after several months, sometimes with fatigue, nausea, dark urine and jaundice. Recurrence after restarting has been reported. These are clinically significant harms, not simply evidence that a product failed to work. 1
Why might some people be more vulnerable?
A 2026 UK toxicology discussion paper reviews an association between the HLA-B*35:01 genetic variant and fo-ti liver injury in Han Chinese patients. It presents this as a possible susceptibility marker, not a standalone diagnostic test or a guarantee of safety for noncarriers. 2
Adverse findings
Ratings where the reported effect was unwanted. Each lists the studies behind it.
For information, not individual medical advice. Ingredient studies do not establish the effectiveness of these products.
Sources
- Polygonum Multiflorum LiverTox, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, 2020
- Herb Induced Liver Injury: Committee on Toxicity meeting paper UK Committee on Toxicity, 2026