Overview of the health benefits of Polygonum multiflorum

Polygonum multiflorum is a traditional Chinese medicinal material known for its functions of nourishing the liver and kidneys, nourishing hair and skin, and enhancing immunity. Its core value lies inNourish blood and nourish hairandAnti-aging, secondary effects include regulating blood lipids, protecting liver and improving sleep. The primary and secondary structure is clear: hair loss and anti-aging are the first echelon, and other functions are auxiliary. It is important to note the difference between raw and cooked Polygonum multiflorum - the cooked version is more beneficial, while the raw version focuses on laxative and detoxification.

Traditional application of nourishing blood and black hair

Polygonum multiflorumBlack hair effectIt was first seen in "Compendium of Materia Medica", and Li Shizhen recorded that it "nourishes blood and benefits the liver, strengthens leanness and benefits the kidneys, and blackens beard and hair". Modern research shows that the stilbene glycosides it contains can promote the production of melanin and improve the problem of gray hair. Folks often use black beans to steam them to enhance the blood-enriching effect, such as the classic prescription"Seven Treasures Beauty Pill". However, it needs to be taken in an appropriate amount for a long time. Overdosage may cause diarrhea.

Anti-aging and immunomodulatory effects

Polygonum multiflorumantioxidant capacityEspecially outstanding, its polysaccharide component can scavenge free radicals and delay cell aging. Experiments by the China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences have confirmed that Polygonum multiflorum extract can increase SOD activity (superoxide dismutase) and reduce skin wrinkles. At the same time, it enhances immunity by activating macrophages and is suitable for people with weak constitutions, but should be used with caution by those with damp and hot constitutions.

Assists in regulating blood lipids and protecting liver

Clinical studies have found that Polygonum multiflorum containsAnthraquinonesIt can lower serum cholesterol and improve mild fatty liver disease. The Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University conducted a controlled trial on 80 patients with hyperlipidemia. After taking a compound preparation containing Polygonum multiflorum for 8 weeks, the total effective rate was about 72%. However, it should be noted that raw Polygonum multiflorum contains emodin, which may damage the liver if taken in large amounts for a long time. It is recommended to follow the advice of a doctor.

Scientific use and product selection

Taken together, the health value of Polygonum multiflorum needs to be viewed dialectically. Recommended choiceProcessed products(Such as the nine-steaming and nine-drying process) to avoid the risk of raw use. Common products on the market include Tong Ren Tang’s “Shouwu Yanshou Tablets” and Yunnan Baiyao’s “Shouwu Pills”, all of which have been certified by the State Food and Drug Administration. Quoting the "Chinese Pharmacopoeia" standard: the daily dosage is recommended to be 3-6 grams, and it is advisable to take it continuously for no more than 3 months.

Quote sources:
1. "Compendium of Materia Medica" by Li Shizhen of the Ming Dynasty (records on the efficacy of black hair)
2. China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences "Research on Antioxidant of Polygonum multiflorum" (2018)
3. Guangzhou Medical University "Clinical Report on Polygonum multiflorum Compound Preparation" (2020)
4. National Pharmacopoeia Commission "Chinese Pharmacopoeia" 2020 Edition (Dosage Standards)