Interactions on record — worth a quick check against your medications. Check your meds →
Dietary supplement

He Shou Wu Ingredients & Drug Interactions

by Tonic Tinctures

He Shou Wu label
See full label image
Liquid Category: Botanical
Most serious interaction: Moderate
Clinical methodology reviewed by · Updated Sep 16, 2026 · Label data from the NIH DSLD
What is this page for?

First and foremost: checking He Shou Wu against your medications. The heart of this page is the interaction checker and the full interaction report — how this product’s ingredients may interact with prescription and over-the-counter medicines you may be taking.

Around that, we add a pharmacist’s high-level view of the product as a whole — what’s inside, the evidence for its stated use, how transparent the label is, and what safety data exists — so you can see the full picture in one place. It’s educational information from our licensed clinical databases and the clinical staff at HelloPharmacist — not medical advice — and we don’t sell or endorse products. Our editorial policy

The interaction bottom line Most serious interaction: Moderate

He Shou Wu is a dietary supplement by Tonic Tinctures with 1 active ingredient. Its ingredients are commonly taken for anti-aging and longevity, hair graying and hair loss, general tonic for vitality.Based on those ingredients, 1,257 medications have a known interaction with it, the most serious rated moderate. The ingredients most likely to interact are organic Polygonum multiflorum extract. Use the checker below to test your specific medication, or read the full HelloPharmacist Interaction Report.

Jump to a section

Check Your Meds Against He Shou Wu by Tonic Tinctures

Ask about any prescription or over-the-counter medication and we check it for interactions with He Shou Wu by Tonic Tinctures — and tell you which ingredient is responsible.

Pharmacist-reviewed data Checks every ingredient Answer in seconds
Prefer a human? Send your question to our licensed pharmacists — free, answered by email within 24 hours.

HelloPharmacist Scorecard of He Shou Wu by Tonic Tinctures

Our pharmacy team’s full take, with four database checks built into the cards below — a summary of what is known, not a grade of the product itself.

From our pharmacy team — supplement deep dive

Generated from HelloPharmacist’s pharmacist-curated databases and editorial rules · Last generated Jul 11, 2026

What’s inside

Low disclosure
Ingredient Transparency · database check
Low

Most active ingredients don't disclose an individual amount — you can't tell how much of each you're getting.

Why this rating?
  • The label discloses an exact amount for 0 of its 1 active ingredient.

He Shou Wu contains one active ingredient: organic Polygonum multiflorum extract, commonly called fo-ti. Fo-ti is a plant extract traditionally used in herbal medicine.

The product also includes inactive ingredients—distilled water and organic alcohol—that serve as the liquid base and preservative.

Does it work?

Not established
Evidence for Intended Use · database check
By FDA rules, dietary supplements can’t claim to treat, cure, or prevent disease — so labels speak in careful marketing language. We discern each product’s intended use from its name, label claims, and label statements, then grade the clinical evidence for that use. How these ratings are computed
Not established

The graded evidence we hold for these ingredients covers different conditions than the ones this product is marketed for, so there's no established rating for its stated use — see Fo-ti's own graded uses on its monograph.

Why this rating?
  • The label markets this product for: Anti-aging and general vitality tonic.
  • We looked for evidence on: Aging, Wrinkled skin, Dyslipidemia, Cardiovascular disease (CVD), Hair loss, Longevity — and 1 related terms.
  • The closest evidence on file: Fo-ti is rated "Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate" for Cardiovascular disease (CVD) (Natural Medicines).
  • Also on file: Fo-ti is rated "Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate" for Dyslipidemia, Wrinkled skin, Aging.

The evidence for fo-ti's effectiveness isn't established in the data we hold. The product has been studied for age-related cognitive decline, hair loss, Alzheimer's disease, osteoporosis, and cardiovascular health, but all of these conditions carry a rating of insufficient reliable evidence to rate.

That means the current studies don't provide enough solid proof that fo-ti works for any of these purposes. If you're considering it for a specific health goal, talk with your pharmacist or doctor about what the science actually shows.

The evidence, ingredient by ingredient Fo-ti

How safe is it?

Well-documented data
Safety Information · database check
Well characterized

Adverse-effect, pregnancy, and general safety data are on file for most of these ingredients.

Why this rating?
  • We hold adverse-effect (side-effect) data for 1 of the 1 matched ingredient.
  • Pregnancy & breastfeeding safety ratings cover 1 of 1.
  • General safety write-ups exist for 1 of 1.
  • Remember: this measures how much safety information exists. Thin data is not the same as being safe.

Fo-ti carries real safety concerns you should know about. Most importantly, it has been linked to cases of liver injury—around 450 cases of hepatitis associated with fo-ti were identified in medical literature, occurring across a wide range of doses, durations, and patient ages, with outcomes ranging from full recovery to cirrhosis and liver failure.

The safety data advises against use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Common side effects with unprocessed fo-ti include abdominal pain, diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting.

Because of the liver risk, this supplement should only be used carefully and under professional guidance.

Side effects, ingredient by ingredient Fo-ti

Meds to double-check

Moderate interaction found
Known Interaction Concern · database check
Moderate identified

The most serious documented interaction for these ingredients is Moderate. Check your medications for a personalized result.

Why this rating?
  • 1 of the 1 matched ingredient can interact with medications — Fo-ti.
  • The most serious interaction on file is rated Moderate.
  • Some involve high-stakes drug classes: anticoagulant / antiplatelet drugs; diabetes medications; heart-rhythm medications.
  • For scale: 1,258 individual medications appear in the full list. A big number alone doesn't make a product dangerous — what matters is whether YOUR medication is on it, so run yours through the interaction checker on this page.

Check with your pharmacist before using this product if you take any blood thinners (anticoagulants) like warfarin, digoxin (a heart medication), diuretics (water pills), stimulant laxatives, sulindac (Clinoril), or any other prescription drug metabolized by your liver. Fo-ti can inhibit liver enzymes and cause laxative effects that alter how your medications work.

Check your own medication Run your meds through the checker above

The bottom line

Scorecard at a glanceFormula with limited ingredient disclosure with no established evidence rating for its marketed use. Moderate medication interactions have been identified, and safety information is well characterized.

He Shou Wu is not a low-risk supplement—the ingredient fo-ti carries documented risk of liver injury and multiple medication interactions, especially with blood thinners and heart drugs. If you take any prescription medication or have liver concerns, talk with your pharmacist before using it.

Pregnant and breastfeeding individuals should avoid it. Its effectiveness for the conditions it's traditionally marketed for hasn't been reliably proven.

Educational only — not medical advice; always confirm with your pharmacist. Our editorial policy · How we use AI

Assessment coverage: 1 of 1 active ingredient matched to our full ingredient reviews (monographs). Based on the product label dated Dec 26, 2020.

This Scorecard evaluates available label information, ingredient evidence, and known medication-safety considerations. It does not independently verify product identity, purity, potency, contamination, or manufacturing quality. How these ratings are computed

At a glance

General information

Key facts about He Shou Wu, straight from the product label.

Brand Tonic Tinctures
Net contents 2 fl. Oz.; 60 mL
Market status On market
Date entered into DSLD Dec 26, 2020
DSLD ID 241207
Product type Botanical
Supplement form Liquid
Dietary claims / uses All Other, Structure/Function
Intended target group(s) Adult (18 - 50 Years), Gluten Free
From the label
Everything in this section is reproduced from the manufacturer’s own product label — it’s the label speaking, not HelloPharmacist. We show it so you can see exactly what the maker states; we don’t verify or endorse those statements.

Supplement Facts

The label details for He Shou Wu by Tonic Tinctures, sourced from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database.

Supplement Facts

Daily Value (DV) Target Group(s):
Adults and children 4 or more years of age
Minimum serving Sizes:
1 Dropper(s)
Maximum serving Sizes:
3 Dropper(s)
Servings per container
60
IngredientAmount% DV
organic Polygonum multiflorum extract0 NP--

Other ingredients: distilled Water, organic Alcohol

Tap any ingredient to jump to its full detail below.

Label statements
These statements are the manufacturer’s wording, reproduced from the product label — the label is saying it, not HelloPharmacist. We don’t verify or endorse them.
Formulation

Artisan liquid extract 1 dropper is approximately equal to 1000 mgs

Gluten free, no hidden additives

Suggested/Recommended/Usage/Directions

Shake gently before use

Directions: Use as directed, 1-3 droppers 1-3 times a day. Use within 45 days of opening.

Precautions

Keep out of reach of children.

Discontinue use if unusual symptoms occur.

FDA Disclaimer Statement

Caution: These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA

FDA Statement of Identity

Dietary Supplement

Is this label outdated? Report a formula or label change and our pharmacy team will review it.

See for yourself

He Shou Wu by Tonic Tinctures label

The label scan from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database. Tap to enlarge.

He Shou Wu label

Label images are published by the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database for the version of this product on file. Always read your actual product label.

View the full label (PDF)
What’s inside

The Ingredients in He Shou Wu by Tonic Tinctures

This is the 1 active ingredient this product is made of. Select it to open its full monograph.

Serving size1 Dropper(s) Dosage formLiquid Servings per container60 Amounts shown are per serving.

Organic Polygonum multiflorum extract

Interacts with
1,257 drugs
0 NP per serving

Fo-ti (He Shou Wu) is a root used in traditional Chinese medicine, often promoted for healthy aging and hair. High-quality human evidence for these be...

Organic Polygonum multiflorum extract monograph & interactions

Other (inactive) ingredients: Distilled Water, Organic Alcohol. These complete the product’s ingredient list but are not active constituents.

Interaction report

He Shou Wu by Tonic Tinctures Drug Interactions

Want to check YOUR meds against He Shou Wu?

Ask about interactions with your drugs in plain English — “Can I take it with lisinopril?” — and we find you the answer in seconds, ingredient by ingredient.

 Go to the checker
1,257Drugs
1,257 Moderate

Ingredients driving the most interactions

organic Polygonum multiflorum extract 1,257

Individual Drug Interactions

The ingredients in He Shou Wu interact with 1,257 drugs. Click any drug to see the details.

1 of the 1 ingredient in He Shou Wu interact with drugs. Each result below shows which ingredient is responsible. organic Polygonum multiflorum extract

Each ingredient & the kinds of drugs it affects

For each ingredient in He Shou Wu with known interactions, here are the types of medications it can affect. Open any type for the detail — or search your exact drug in the checker above.

organic Polygonum multiflorum extract17 drug types · 1,257 drugs

Anticoagulant/Antiplatelet Drugs

Fo-ti has been linked to cases of acute liver failure which can decrease clotting factor production and increase the effects of anticoagulants. In one case, a patient who had been stable on warfarin presented with acute hepatitis and an INR elevated to 14.98. The patient had been taking fo-ti for 90 days prior to admission. Discontinuation of warfarin and fo-ti lead to a decrease in the INR and full recovery. Theoretically, concomitant use of fo-ti with anticoagulant or antiplatelet drugs may increase the risk of bleeding in some patients. Until more is known, monitor patients taking fo-ti and drugs that affect bleeding.
Some of these drugs include aspirin, clopidogrel (Plavix), dalteparin (Fragmin), dipyridamole (Persantine), enoxaparin (Lovenox), heparin, ticlopidine (Ticlid), warfarin (Coumadin), and others.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Antidiabetes Drugs

Theoretically, fo-ti might increase the risk of hypoglycemia when taken with antidiabetes drugs.
Fo-ti reportedly has hypoglycemic effects.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Contraceptive Drugs

Theoretically, taking large amounts of fo-ti might interfere with contraceptive drugs due to competition for estrogen receptors.
In vitro research suggests that fo-ti extract has estrogenic activity.

Likelihood Probable Evidence D
Cytochrome P450 1A2 (Cyp1A2) Substrates

Theoretically, fo-ti might increase or decrease the levels and clinical effects of drugs metabolized by CYP1A2.
In vitro research suggests that fo-ti might inhibit CYP1A2. Additionally, in vitro research suggests that the degree of CYP1A2 inhibition depends on the type of fo-ti extract (i.e., the raw plant leads to greater inhibition than extensively processed extracts). However, in an animal study, an aqueous extract of fo-ti inhibited CYP1A2 while an alcoholic extract of fo-ti induced CYP1A2. Induction or inhibition of CYP1A2 by fo-ti has not been reported in humans.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Cytochrome P450 2B6 (Cyp2B6) Substrates

Theoretically, fo-ti might increase the levels and clinical effects of drugs metabolized by CYP2B6.
Animal research suggests that fo-ti might inhibit CYP2B6. One in vitro study suggests that the degree of CYP2B6 inhibition may depend on the type of fo-ti extract (i.e., the raw plant leads to greater inhibition than extensively processed extracts). However, this interaction has not been reported in humans.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Cytochrome P450 2C19 (Cyp2C19) Substrates

Theoretically, fo-ti may increase the levels and clinical effects of drugs metabolized by CYP2C19.
Animal and in vitro research suggests that fo-ti may inhibit CYP2C19. An in vitro study suggests that the degree of CYP2C19 inhibition may depend on the type of fo-ti extract (i.e., the raw plant leads to greater inhibition than extensively processed extracts). However, this interaction has not been reported in humans.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Cytochrome P450 2C8 (Cyp2C8) Substrates

Theoretically, fo-ti might increase the levels and clinical effects of drugs metabolized by CYP2C8.
In vitro research suggests that fo-ti might inhibit CYP2C8. However, this interaction has not been reported in humans.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Cytochrome P450 2C9 (Cyp2C9) Substrates

Theoretically, fo-ti may increase the levels and clinical effects of drugs metabolized by CYP2C9.
Animal and in vitro research suggests that fo-ti may inhibit CYP2C9. However, this interaction has not been reported in humans.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Cytochrome P450 2D6 (Cyp2D6) Substrates

Theoretically, fo-ti may increase the levels and clinical effects of drugs metabolized by CYP2D6.
Animal research suggests that fo-ti might inhibit CYP2D6. Additionally, an in vitro study suggests that the degree of CYP2D6 inhibition may depend on the type of fo-ti extract (i.e., the raw plant leads to greater inhibition than extensively processed extracts). However, this interaction has not been reported in humans.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Cytochrome P450 3A4 (Cyp3A4) Substrates

Theoretically, fo-ti might increase the levels and clinical effects of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.
In vitro research suggests that fo-ti might inhibit CYP3A4. One in vitro study suggests that the degree of CYP3A4 inhibition may depend on the type of fo-ti extract (i.e., the raw plant leads to greater inhibition than extensively processed extracts). However, this evidence conflicts with animal research suggesting that fo-ti does not inhibit CYP3A4. This interaction has not been reported in humans.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Digoxin (Lanoxin)

Theoretically, fo-ti, particularly raw fo-ti root, might increase the risk of hypokalemia and cardiotoxicity when taken with digoxin.
Raw fo-ti root contains anthraquinone derivatives, which might have stimulant laxative effects. In vitro research shows that fermented and processed fo-ti root have reduced laxative effects compared with raw fo-ti root.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Diuretic Drugs

Theoretically, fo-ti, particularly raw fo-ti root, might increase the risk of hypokalemia when taken with diuretic drugs.
Raw fo-ti root contains anthraquinone derivatives, which might have stimulant laxative effects and compound diuretic-induced potassium loss. In vitro research shows that fermented and processed fo-ti root have reduced laxative effects compared with raw fo-ti root.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Estrogens

Theoretically, taking large amounts of fo-ti might interfere with hormone replacement therapy through competition for estrogen receptors.
In vitro research suggests that fo-ti extract has estrogenic activity.

Likelihood Probable Evidence D
Hepatotoxic Drugs

Theoretically, fo-ti might increase the risk of liver damage when taken with hepatotoxic drugs.
Fo-ti has been linked to liver damage in many reports.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Stimulant Laxatives

Theoretically, fo-ti, particularly raw fo-ti root, might increase the risk of fluid and electrolyte depletion when taken with stimulant laxatives.
Raw fo-ti root contains anthraquinone derivatives, which might have stimulant laxative effects. However, in vitro research shows that fermented and processed fo-ti root have reduced laxative effects compared with raw fo-ti root.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Sulindac (Clinoril)

Theoretically, fo-ti might increase or decrease the levels and clinical effects of sulindac.
Animal research suggests that the type of fo-ti extract might affect the levels of sulindac differently; the raw plant may increase levels, but processed parts may decrease levels. Induction or inhibition of CYP1A2 by fo-ti has not been reported in humans.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Warfarin (Coumadin)

Theoretically, fo-ti might increase the effects and adverse effects of warfarin.
Fo-ti may have stimulant laxative effects and cause diarrhea, especially when the raw or unprocessed fo-ti root is used. Diarrhea can increase the effects of warfarin, increase international normalized ratio (INR), and increase the risk of bleeding. Also, fo-ti has been linked to cases of acute liver failure which can decrease clotting factor production and increase the effects of warfarin. In one case, a patient who had been stable on warfarin presented with acute hepatitis and an INR elevated to 14.98. The patient had been taking fo-ti for 90 days prior to admission. Discontinuation of warfarin and fo-ti lead to a decrease in the INR and full recovery.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
organic Polygonum multiflorum extract full monograph & interactions
The maker

Brand information

Manufacturer and brand details for He Shou Wu, from the product label.

Tonic Tinctures

See all Tonic Tinctures products
Name
Tonic Apothecary
Web Address
www.tonictinctures.com
Pharmacist Counseling Corner

He Shou Wu by Tonic Tinctures: Common Questions

Does He Shou Wu by Tonic Tinctures interact with any medications?
Yes. Based on its ingredients, He Shou Wu has a known interaction with 1,257 medications. Use the checker to see how it interacts with a specific drug.
How can one product interact with so many drugs?
He Shou Wu contains a single active ingredient, and that one ingredient can interact with many different medications on its own. We check it against each medication and show the mechanism responsible.
Where does this information come from?
The product label data comes from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database (DSLD); the interaction data is built on the Natural Medicines database and reviewed by HelloPharmacist pharmacists.
Can I take He Shou Wu if I'm on warfarin or another blood thinner?
No—this is a serious concern. Fo-ti has been linked to acute liver failure that can dramatically increase blood thinner effects and bleeding risk. A documented case showed a patient on stable warfarin develop severe liver damage and a dangerously elevated clotting time after 90 days of fo-ti. Do not take this product if you're on any blood thinner without explicit approval from your doctor and pharmacist.
Is fo-ti safe during pregnancy or while breastfeeding?
No. The safety data advises against use during pregnancy. There's also not enough safety information to use it while breastfeeding, so it should be avoided. If you're pregnant, planning pregnancy, or nursing, skip this product and talk with your doctor about any supplements you're considering.
What are the most common side effects?
With unprocessed fo-ti, the most common side effects are abdominal pain, diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting. More seriously, fo-ti has been linked to rare but documented cases of liver damage—hepatitis and hepatotoxicity—which can occur with both processed and unprocessed forms at varying doses and durations.
Does He Shou Wu actually work for hair loss, memory, or bone health?
The evidence isn't there to say it works. Fo-ti has been studied for androgenic alopecia (male pattern baldness), age-related cognitive decline, Alzheimer's disease, osteoporosis, and heart disease, but all of those studies show insufficient reliable evidence to rate. We don't have proof it helps with any of these conditions.
Why is there a warning about liver injury?
Around 450 cases of hepatitis linked to fo-ti have been documented in medical literature. These happened across different doses, formulations, and how long people took it, and the outcomes ranged from recovery to serious conditions like cirrhosis and liver failure. Because of this risk, the supplement should only be used under professional guidance.

Written and reviewed by the HelloPharmacist editorial staff. Our editorial policy

Not sure if He Shou Wu is safe with your meds?

Our pharmacists answer your medication & supplement questions — free.

Ask a pharmacist

Label information is sourced from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database and reflects the product version on file; always read your actual product label. This page is for education only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Confirm with your pharmacist or doctor before combining supplements and medications.

He Shou Wu label
Go deeper

The Full Monographs Behind He Shou Wu’s Ingredients

Every ingredient we hold a full HelloPharmacist monograph for — uses, evidence, safety, and the complete interaction list.

Herb & supplement monograph

Fo-ti

Interacts with 1,257 drugs

Fo-ti (He Shou Wu) is a root used in traditional Chinese medicine, often promoted for healthy aging and hair. High-quality human evidence for these benefits is limited, and processed Fo-ti h...

Read the full Fo-ti monograph →
Sources

Sources & How We Checked

He Shou Wu's label data comes from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database; the ingredient interaction data is from the Natural Medicines database, reviewed by our pharmacists.

Content is written and reviewed by licensed HelloPharmacist pharmacists. See our data sources and editorial standards for how this information is built and checked.

The 28 references behind this product’s interaction data

Every citation that drives the interaction findings for this product’s ingredients, from the evidence-graded Natural Medicines (TRC Healthcare) database. Open an ingredient to browse its citations — links open the study on PubMed or the publisher’s site.

Fo-ti 28 references
  1. Foster S, Tyler VE. Tyler's Honest Herbal: A Sensible Guide to the Use of Herbs and Related Remedies. 3rd ed., Binghamton, NY: Haworth Herbal Press, 1993.
  2. McGuffin M, Hobbs C, Upton R, Goldberg A, eds. American Herbal Products Association's Botanical Safety Handbook. Boca Raton, FL: CRC Press, LLC 1997.
  3. Brinker F. Herb Contraindications and Drug Interactions. 2nd ed. Sandy, OR: Eclectic Medical Publications, 1998.
  4. Covington TR, et al. Handbook of Nonprescription Drugs. 11th ed. Washington, DC: American Pharmaceutical Association, 1996.
  5. Park GJ, Mann SP, Ngu MC. Acute hepatitis induced by Shou-Wu-Pian, a herbal product derived from Polygonum multiflorum. J Gastroenterol Hepatol 2001;16:115-7.
  6. But PP, Tomlinson B, Lee KL. Hepatitis related to the Chinese medicine Shou-wu-pian manufactured from Polygonum multiflorum. Vet Hum Toxicol 1996;38:280-2.
  7. Oerter Klein KO, Janfaza M, Wong JA, Chang RJ. Estrogen bioactivity in Fo-Ti and other herbs used for their estrogen-like effects as determined by a recombinant cell bioassay. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2003;88:4077-9.. PubMed
  8. Unger M, Frank A. Simultaneous determination of the inhibitory potency of herbal extracts on the activity of six major cytochrome P450 enzymes using liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry and automated online extraction. Rapid Commun Mass Spectrom 2004;1 PubMed
  9. UK Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency. Polygonum multiflorum and liver reactions. April 2006. Available at: www.mhra.gov.uk/home/idcplg?IdcService= SS_GET_PAGE&useSecondary=true&ssDocName= CON2023590&ssTargetNodeId= 833 (Accessed 10 May 2
  10. Panis B, Wong DR, Hooymans PM, De Smet PA, Rosias PP. Recurrent toxic hepatitis in a Caucasian girl related to the use of Shou-Wu-Pian, a Chinese herbal preparation. J Pediatr Gastroenterol Nutr 2005;41:256-8. PubMed
  11. Mazzanti G, Battinelli L, Daniele C, et al. New case of acute hepatitis following the consumption of Shou Wu Pian, a Chinese herbal product derived from Polygonum multiflorum. Ann Intern Med 2004;140:E589-90.
  12. Cardenas A, Restrepo JC, Sierra F, Correa G. Acute hepatitis due to shen-min: a herbal product derived from Polygonum multiflorum. J Clin Gastroenterol 2006;40:629-32. PubMed
  13. Zhang CZ, Wang SX, Zhang Y, et al. In vitro estrogenic activities of Chinese medicinal plants traditionally used for the management of menopausal symptoms. J Ethnopharmacol 2005;98:295-300. PubMed
  14. Laird AR, Ramchandani N, deGoma EM, et al. Acute hepatitis associated with the use of an herbal supplement (Polygonum multiflorum) mimicking iron-overload syndrome. J Clin Gastroenterol 2008;42:861-2. PubMed
  15. Jung KA, Min HJ, Yoo SS, et al. Drug-Induced Liver Injury: Twenty Five Cases of Acute Hepatitis Following Ingestion of Polygonum multiflorum Thunb. Gut Liver 2011;5(4):493-9. PubMed
  16. Kang, S. C., Lee, C. M., Choi, H., Lee, J. H., Oh, J. S., Kwak, J. H., and Zee, O. P. Evaluation of oriental medicinal herbs for estrogenic and antiproliferative activities. Phytother Res 2006;20(11):1017-1019. PubMed
  17. Yuen, M. F., Tam, S., Fung, J., Wong, D. K., Wong, B. C., and Lai, C. L. Traditional Chinese medicine causing hepatotoxicity in patients with chronic hepatitis B infection: a 1-year prospective study. Aliment.Pharmacol.Ther 10-15-2006;24(8):1179-1186. PubMed
  18. Zhang, L., Yang, X., Sun, Z., and Qu, Y. [Retrospective study of adverse events of Polygonum multiflorum and risk control]. Zhongguo Zhong.Yao Za Zhi. 2009;34(13):1724-1729.
  19. Bae, S. H., Kim, D. H., Bae, Y. S., Lee, K. J., Kim, D. W., Yoon, J. B., Hong, J. H., and Kim, S. H. [Toxic hepatitis associated with Polygoni multiflori]. Korean J.Hepatol. 2010;16(2):182-186. PubMed
  20. Furukawa, M., Kasajima, S., Nakamura, Y., Shouzushima, M., Nagatani, N., Takinishi, A., Taguchi, A., Fujita, M., Niimi, A., Misaka, R., and Nagahara, H. Toxic hepatitis induced by show-wu-pian, a Chinese herbal preparation. Intern.Med. 2010;49(15):1537-1 PubMed
  21. McGuffin, M., Hobbs, C., Upton, R., and Goldberg, A. American Herbal Products Association's Botanical Safety Handbook. Boca Raton, FL: CRC Press, LLC;1997.
  22. Dong H, Slain D, Cheng J, Ma W, Liang W. Eighteen cases of liver injury following ingestion of Polygonum multiflorum. Complement Ther Med 2014;22(1):70-4. PubMed
  23. Lei X, Chen J, Ren J, et al. Liver damage associated with Polygonum multiflorum Thunb.: a systematic review of case reports and case series. Evid Based Complement Alternat Med 2015;2015:459749.
  24. Ma KF, Zhang XG, Jia HY. CYP1A2 polymorphism in Chinese patients with acute liver injury induced by Polygonum multiflorum. Genet Mol Res 2014;13(3):5637-43. PubMed
  25. Zhang Y, Ding T, Diao T, Deng M, Chen S. Effects of Polygonum multiflorum on the activity of cytochrome P450 isoforms in rats. Pharmazie 2015;70(1):47-54. DOI
  26. Yu J, Xie J, Mao XJ, et al. Comparison of laxative and antioxidant activities of raw, processed and fermented Polygoni multiflori radix. Chin J Nat Med 2012;10(1):63-7. DOI
  27. Shao YL, Ma CM, Wu JM, Guo FC, Zhang SC. Concurrent severe hepatotoxicity and agranulocytosis induced by Polygonum multiflorum: A case report. World J Clin Cases 2022;10(27):9921-9928.
  28. Xing Y, Yu Q, Zhou L, et al. Cytochrome P450-mediated herb-drug interaction (HDI) of Polygonum multiflorum Thunb. based on pharmacokinetic studies and in vitro inhibition assays. Phytomedicine 2023;112:154710. PubMed

See these in context on the Fo-ti monograph →

Parts of this content are provided by the Therapeutic Research Center, LLC.

DISCLAIMER: Currently this does not check for drug-drug interactions. This is not an all-inclusive comprehensive list of potential interactions and is for informational purposes only. Not all interactions are known or well-reported in the scientific literature, and new interactions are continually being reported. Input is needed from a qualified healthcare provider including a pharmacist before starting any therapy. Application of clinical judgment is necessary.

© 2021 Therapeutic Research Center, LLC

Keep exploring
Supplement interaction checker › Check any supplement or product against your medications Drug–drug interactions › Check two or more of your medications against each other Browse medications A–Z › Every drug we've checked against herbs & supplements NDC & pricing lookup › Find a drug’s NDCs, packaging and costs Ask a pharmacist › Free, personal answer from our licensed team