Ho Shou Wu Ingredients & Drug Interactions
by Herb Pharm
What is this page for?
First and foremost: checking Ho 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
Ho Shou Wu is a dietary supplement by Herb Pharm 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 Ho Shou Wu liquid extract. Use the checker below to test your specific medication, or read the full HelloPharmacist Interaction Report.
Check Your Meds Against Ho Shou Wu by Herb Pharm
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HelloPharmacist Scorecard of Ho Shou Wu by Herb Pharm
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.
What’s inside
Low disclosure
This product contains one active ingredient: Ho Shou Wu liquid extract, also known as fo-ti — a traditional herbal extract. The extract is prepared with distilled water and certified organic alcohol, with ho shou wu extractives as additional extract material.
Does it work?
Not established
The evidence we hold doesn't establish that ho shou wu works for any of its common uses — age-related cognitive decline, hair loss (androgenic alopecia), Alzheimer disease, bone health (osteoporosis), or cardiovascular disease. For each of these, the data shows insufficient reliable evidence to rate its effectiveness.
How safe is it?
Well-documented data
Fo-ti has been linked to liver injury — both processed and unprocessed forms — in around 450 documented cases across all age groups and dose ranges. Damage has ranged from hepatitis (liver inflammation) to cirrhosis (severe scarring).
The most common side effects from unprocessed fo-ti are abdominal pain, diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting. Because of the liver-injury risk, it should only be used under professional supervision.
The safety data advises against fo-ti during pregnancy and breastfeeding — the evidence doesn't support its use during either, so talk with your doctor or pharmacist for personalized guidance if you're pregnant, planning pregnancy, or nursing.
Meds to double-check
Moderate interaction found
Check with your doctor or pharmacist before taking this product if you use blood thinners (anticoagulants) like warfarin, heart medications like digoxin, water pills (diuretics), stimulant laxatives, sulindac (an anti-inflammatory), or any drug metabolized by CYP2C8 or CYP2B6 liver enzymes — all carry Moderate-severity interactions with fo-ti. No interactions are documented for the ingredient we could not check.
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.
Ho Shou Wu carries serious risks — documented liver damage and multiple medication interactions affecting over 1,200 drugs. It's not established to be effective for any common health concern.
If you're taking a blood thinner, heart medication, water pill, or any regular prescription, you'll want to discuss this product with your own doctor or pharmacist before starting.
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 Nov 25, 2014.
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
General information
Key facts about Ho Shou Wu, straight from the product label.
| Brand | Herb Pharm |
|---|---|
| Barcode (UPC) | 090800001650 |
| Net contents | 4 fl. Oz.; 118.4 mL |
| Market status | On market |
| Date entered into DSLD | Nov 25, 2014 |
| DSLD ID | 39710 |
| Product type | Botanical With Nutrients |
| Supplement form | Liquid |
| Dietary claims / uses | All Other, Structure/Function |
| Intended target group(s) | Adult (18 - 50 Years), Gluten Free |
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 Ho Shou Wu by Herb Pharm, sourced from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database.
Supplement Facts
| Ingredient | Amount | % DV |
|---|---|---|
| Ho Shou Wu liquid extract | 0 NP | -- |
Other ingredients: distilled Water, certified organic Alcohol, Ho Shou Wu extractives
Tap any ingredient to jump to its full detail below.
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.
Suggested/Recommended/Usage/Directions
SUGGESTED USE Shake Well Before Using Take up to 40 drops in 2 oz. of water or juice, two to four times per day. Best taken between meals.
Precautions
Caution: Not for use in persons with diarrhea.
Keep Out of the Reach of Children
Storage
Store away from heat & light
General
006
General Statements
SYSTEM RESTORATION Musculoskeletal
To assure optimal quality Ho Shou Wu roots, we directly purchase from China only roots that have been graded "1st Quality."
FDA Statement of Identity
HERBAL SUPPLEMENT
Formulation
GLUTEN-FREE
Formula
We prepare our Ho Shou Wu Extract from the roots of Polygonum multiflorum plants which have been Traditionally Grown & processed with Black Beans (Phaselous vulgaris) according to traditional Chinese methods.
FDA Disclaimer Statement
THIS STATEMENT HAS NOT BEEN EVALUATED BY THE FDA. THIS PRODUCT IS NOT INTENDED TO DIAGNOSE, TREAT, CURE OR PREVENT ANY DISEASE.
Is this label outdated? Report a formula or label change and our pharmacy team will review it.
Ho Shou Wu by Herb Pharm label
The label scan from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database. Tap to enlarge.
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)The Ingredients in Ho Shou Wu by Herb Pharm
This is the 1 active ingredient this product is made of. Select it to open its full monograph.
Serving size1 Drop(s) Dosage formLiquid Amounts shown are per serving.
Ho Shou Wu liquid extract
Interacts with1,257 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 be...
Ho Shou Wu liquid extract monograph & interactionsOther (inactive) ingredients: Distilled Water, Certified organic Alcohol, Ho Shou Wu extractives. These complete the product’s ingredient list but are not active constituents.
Ho Shou Wu by Herb Pharm Drug Interactions
HelloPharmacist Interaction Report
Herb Pharm's Ho Shou Wu is a single-ingredient extract of fo-ti, and it carries documented interactions with blood thinners (anticoagulants) — the most serious concern.
One case on record showed acute liver failure in a patient stable on warfarin who'd been taking fo-ti for 90 days; his blood-clotting marker (INR) spiked to 14.98. The herb can damage the liver, which reduces clotting factor production and magnifies the effect of anticoagulants, raising bleeding risk.
Read the full breakdown — every affected drug type, severity by severity
Fo-ti also interacts with several other medication types. It may increase the levels of drugs broken down by your liver's CYP2C8 and CYP2B6 enzymes, potentially boosting their effects.
It can increase digoxin (Lanoxin) levels and the risk of low potassium and heart toxicity, especially from the raw plant. It may unpredictably shift sulindac (Clinoril) levels up or down.
Raw fo-ti has laxative properties that can trigger diarrhea, which itself amplifies warfarin's effect and depletes potassium — a risk that compounds if you're also taking diuretics (water pills) or stimulant laxatives. Altogether, these interactions span 1,258 individual medications.
Before you start, check your exact medications with the search tool on this page. If you take a blood thinner, heart medication, water pill, or any drug your doctor has flagged as processed by your liver, talk with your pharmacist or doctor first.
Check your own medications below · Editorial policy · How we use AI
Want to check YOUR meds against Ho 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 checkerIngredients driving the most interactions
Individual Drug Interactions
The ingredients in Ho Shou Wu interact with 1,257 drugs. Click any drug to see the details.
1 of the 1 ingredient in Ho Shou Wu interact with drugs. Each result below shows which ingredient is responsible. Ho Shou Wu liquid extract
6-mercaptopurinePurinethol
How 6-mercaptopurine interacts with Ho Shou Wu — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Ho Shou Wu Liquid ExtractHepatotoxic Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, fo-ti might increase the risk of liver damage when taken with hepatotoxic drugs.
Read the full Ho Shou Wu Liquid Extract + 6-mercaptopurine interactionAdo-trastuzumab EmtansineKadcyla
How Ado-trastuzumab Emtansine interacts with Ho Shou Wu — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Ho Shou Wu Liquid ExtractCytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, fo-ti might increase the levels and clinical effects of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.
Read the full Ho Shou Wu Liquid Extract + Ado-trastuzumab Emtansine interactionAbacavir Sulfate, Dolutegravir, LamivudineTriumeq
How Abacavir Sulfate, Dolutegravir, Lamivudine interacts with Ho Shou Wu — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Ho Shou Wu Liquid ExtractHepatotoxic Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, fo-ti might increase the risk of liver damage when taken with hepatotoxic drugs.
Read the full Ho Shou Wu Liquid Extract + Abacavir Sulfate, Dolutegravir, Lamivudine interactionAbacavir, LamivudineEpzicom
How Abacavir, Lamivudine interacts with Ho Shou Wu — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Ho Shou Wu Liquid ExtractHepatotoxic Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, fo-ti might increase the risk of liver damage when taken with hepatotoxic drugs.
Read the full Ho Shou Wu Liquid Extract + Abacavir, Lamivudine interactionAbciximabReoPro
How Abciximab interacts with Ho Shou Wu — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Ho Shou Wu Liquid ExtractAnticoagulant/antiplatelet Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Fo-ti has been linked to cases of acute liver failure which can decrease clotting factor production and increase the effects of anticoagulants.
Read the full Ho Shou Wu Liquid Extract + Abciximab interactionAbemaciclibVerzenio
How Abemaciclib interacts with Ho Shou Wu — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Ho Shou Wu Liquid ExtractCytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, fo-ti might increase the levels and clinical effects of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.
Read the full Ho Shou Wu Liquid Extract + Abemaciclib interactionAbiraterone
How Abiraterone interacts with Ho Shou Wu — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Ho Shou Wu Liquid ExtractHepatotoxic Drugs, Cytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, fo-ti might increase the risk of liver damage when taken with hepatotoxic drugs.
Read the full Ho Shou Wu Liquid Extract + Abiraterone interactionAbiraterone AcetateYonsa, Zytiga
How Abiraterone Acetate interacts with Ho Shou Wu — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Ho Shou Wu Liquid ExtractCytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates, Hepatotoxic Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, fo-ti might increase the levels and clinical effects of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.
Read the full Ho Shou Wu Liquid Extract + Abiraterone Acetate interactionAbrocitinibCibinqo
How Abrocitinib interacts with Ho Shou Wu — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Ho Shou Wu Liquid ExtractAnticoagulant/antiplatelet Drugs, Cytochrome P450 2c9 (cyp2c9) Substrates +1 Moderate
Interaction Summary
Fo-ti has been linked to cases of acute liver failure which can decrease clotting factor production and increase the effects of anticoagulants.
Read the full Ho Shou Wu Liquid Extract + Abrocitinib interactionAcalabrutinibCalquence
How Acalabrutinib interacts with Ho Shou Wu — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Ho Shou Wu Liquid ExtractCytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, fo-ti might increase the levels and clinical effects of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.
Read the full Ho Shou Wu Liquid Extract + Acalabrutinib interactionAcarboseGlucobay, Prandase, Precose
How Acarbose interacts with Ho Shou Wu — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Ho Shou Wu Liquid ExtractAntidiabetes Drugs, Hepatotoxic Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, fo-ti might increase the risk of hypoglycemia when taken with antidiabetes drugs.
Read the full Ho Shou Wu Liquid Extract + Acarbose interactionAcebutololRhotral, Sectral
How Acebutolol interacts with Ho Shou Wu — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Ho Shou Wu Liquid ExtractHepatotoxic Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, fo-ti might increase the risk of liver damage when taken with hepatotoxic drugs.
Read the full Ho Shou Wu Liquid Extract + Acebutolol interactionAcenocoumarolSintrom
How Acenocoumarol interacts with Ho Shou Wu — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Ho Shou Wu Liquid ExtractAnticoagulant/antiplatelet Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Fo-ti has been linked to cases of acute liver failure which can decrease clotting factor production and increase the effects of anticoagulants.
Read the full Ho Shou Wu Liquid Extract + Acenocoumarol interactionAcetaminophenChildren's Tylenol, Children's Tylenol Meltaways, Tylenol, Tylenol Ex Strength
How Acetaminophen interacts with Ho Shou Wu — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Ho Shou Wu Liquid ExtractCytochrome P450 1a2 (cyp1a2) Substrates, Hepatotoxic Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, fo-ti might increase or decrease the levels and clinical effects of drugs metabolized by CYP1A2.
Read the full Ho Shou Wu Liquid Extract + Acetaminophen interactionAcetaminophen, AspirinGemnisyn
How Acetaminophen, Aspirin interacts with Ho Shou Wu — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Ho Shou Wu Liquid ExtractHepatotoxic Drugs, Cytochrome P450 1a2 (cyp1a2) Substrates +1 Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, fo-ti might increase the risk of liver damage when taken with hepatotoxic drugs.
Read the full Ho Shou Wu Liquid Extract + Acetaminophen, Aspirin interactionAcetaminophen, Aspirin, CaffeineExcedrin, Excedrin Extra Strength, Excedrin Migraine
How Acetaminophen, Aspirin, Caffeine interacts with Ho Shou Wu — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Ho Shou Wu Liquid ExtractAnticoagulant/antiplatelet Drugs, Cytochrome P450 1a2 (cyp1a2) Substrates +2 Moderate
Interaction Summary
Fo-ti has been linked to cases of acute liver failure which can decrease clotting factor production and increase the effects of anticoagulants.
Read the full Ho Shou Wu Liquid Extract + Acetaminophen, Aspirin, Caffeine interactionAcetaminophen, Brompheniramine, PhenylpropanolamineDimetapp Cold and Flu
How Acetaminophen, Brompheniramine, Phenylpropanolamine interacts with Ho Shou Wu — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Ho Shou Wu Liquid ExtractCytochrome P450 1a2 (cyp1a2) Substrates, Hepatotoxic Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, fo-ti might increase or decrease the levels and clinical effects of drugs metabolized by CYP1A2.
Read the full Ho Shou Wu Liquid Extract + Acetaminophen, Brompheniramine, Phenylpropanolamine interactionAcetaminophen, ButalbitalAxocet, Bancap, Bucet, Butex Forte, Esgic CF, Orbivan CF +5 more
How Acetaminophen, Butalbital interacts with Ho Shou Wu — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Ho Shou Wu Liquid ExtractHepatotoxic Drugs, Cytochrome P450 1a2 (cyp1a2) Substrates Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, fo-ti might increase the risk of liver damage when taken with hepatotoxic drugs.
Read the full Ho Shou Wu Liquid Extract + Acetaminophen, Butalbital interactionAcetaminophen, Butalbital, CaffeineEsgic, Esgic Plus, Fiogesic, Fioricet, Repan, Tecnal +1 more
How Acetaminophen, Butalbital, Caffeine interacts with Ho Shou Wu — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Ho Shou Wu Liquid ExtractCytochrome P450 1a2 (cyp1a2) Substrates, Cytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates +1 Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, fo-ti might increase or decrease the levels and clinical effects of drugs metabolized by CYP1A2.
Read the full Ho Shou Wu Liquid Extract + Acetaminophen, Butalbital, Caffeine interactionAcetaminophen, Butalbital, Caffeine, CodeineEsgic with Codeine, Fioricet w/ Codeine
How Acetaminophen, Butalbital, Caffeine, Codeine interacts with Ho Shou Wu — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Ho Shou Wu Liquid ExtractHepatotoxic Drugs, Cytochrome P450 1a2 (cyp1a2) Substrates +2 Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, fo-ti might increase the risk of liver damage when taken with hepatotoxic drugs.
Read the full Ho Shou Wu Liquid Extract + Acetaminophen, Butalbital, Caffeine, Codeine interactionAcetaminophen, Butalbital, CodeineBancap w/ Codeine
How Acetaminophen, Butalbital, Codeine interacts with Ho Shou Wu — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Ho Shou Wu Liquid ExtractCytochrome P450 2d6 (cyp2d6) Substrates, Hepatotoxic Drugs +1 Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, fo-ti may increase the levels and clinical effects of drugs metabolized by CYP2D6.
Read the full Ho Shou Wu Liquid Extract + Acetaminophen, Butalbital, Codeine interactionAcetaminophen, Butalbital, Codeine PhosphatePhrenilin #3
How Acetaminophen, Butalbital, Codeine Phosphate interacts with Ho Shou Wu — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Ho Shou Wu Liquid ExtractCytochrome P450 1a2 (cyp1a2) Substrates, Cytochrome P450 2d6 (cyp2d6) Substrates +1 Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, fo-ti might increase or decrease the levels and clinical effects of drugs metabolized by CYP1A2.
Read the full Ho Shou Wu Liquid Extract + Acetaminophen, Butalbital, Codeine Phosphate interactionAcetaminophen, Caffeine, Chlorpheniramine, Hydrocodone, PhenylephrineHycomine Compound
How Acetaminophen, Caffeine, Chlorpheniramine, Hydrocodone, Phenylephrine interacts with Ho Shou Wu — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Ho Shou Wu Liquid ExtractHepatotoxic Drugs, Cytochrome P450 1a2 (cyp1a2) Substrates +2 Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, fo-ti might increase the risk of liver damage when taken with hepatotoxic drugs.
Read the full Ho Shou Wu Liquid Extract + Acetaminophen, Caffeine, Chlorpheniramine, Hydrocodone, Phenylephrine interactionAcetaminophen, Caffeine, CodeineGesic C15, Gesic C30, Gesic C8, Lenoltec 1, Lenoltec 2, Lenoltec 3 +1 more
How Acetaminophen, Caffeine, Codeine interacts with Ho Shou Wu — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Ho Shou Wu Liquid ExtractCytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates, Hepatotoxic Drugs +2 Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, fo-ti might increase the levels and clinical effects of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.
Read the full Ho Shou Wu Liquid Extract + Acetaminophen, Caffeine, Codeine interactionAcetaminophen, Caffeine, Codeine, SalicylamideCodalan No.1, Codalan No.2, Codalan No.3
How Acetaminophen, Caffeine, Codeine, Salicylamide interacts with Ho Shou Wu — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Ho Shou Wu Liquid ExtractCytochrome P450 1a2 (cyp1a2) Substrates, Cytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates +2 Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, fo-ti might increase or decrease the levels and clinical effects of drugs metabolized by CYP1A2.
Read the full Ho Shou Wu Liquid Extract + Acetaminophen, Caffeine, Codeine, Salicylamide interactionAcetaminophen, Caffeine, DihydrocodeineDHC Plus, Panlor DC, Panlor SS
How Acetaminophen, Caffeine, Dihydrocodeine interacts with Ho Shou Wu — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Ho Shou Wu Liquid ExtractHepatotoxic Drugs, Cytochrome P450 1a2 (cyp1a2) Substrates +2 Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, fo-ti might increase the risk of liver damage when taken with hepatotoxic drugs.
Read the full Ho Shou Wu Liquid Extract + Acetaminophen, Caffeine, Dihydrocodeine interactionAcetaminophen, Caffeine, IsomethepteneMigralam
How Acetaminophen, Caffeine, Isometheptene interacts with Ho Shou Wu — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Ho Shou Wu Liquid ExtractCytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates, Hepatotoxic Drugs +1 Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, fo-ti might increase the levels and clinical effects of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.
Read the full Ho Shou Wu Liquid Extract + Acetaminophen, Caffeine, Isometheptene interactionAcetaminophen, Caffeine, PyrilamineMidol Max Strength Menstrual
How Acetaminophen, Caffeine, Pyrilamine interacts with Ho Shou Wu — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Ho Shou Wu Liquid ExtractCytochrome P450 1a2 (cyp1a2) Substrates, Cytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates +2 Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, fo-ti might increase or decrease the levels and clinical effects of drugs metabolized by CYP1A2.
Read the full Ho Shou Wu Liquid Extract + Acetaminophen, Caffeine, Pyrilamine interactionAcetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine Maleate, Dextromethorphan HbrVicks Formula 44M Cough, Cold & Flu Relief
How Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine Maleate, Dextromethorphan Hbr interacts with Ho Shou Wu — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Ho Shou Wu Liquid ExtractHepatotoxic Drugs, Cytochrome P450 1a2 (cyp1a2) Substrates +2 Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, fo-ti might increase the risk of liver damage when taken with hepatotoxic drugs.
Read the full Ho Shou Wu Liquid Extract + Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine Maleate, Dextromethorphan Hbr interactionAcetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Codeine, PhenylephrineColrex
How Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Codeine, Phenylephrine interacts with Ho Shou Wu — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Ho Shou Wu Liquid ExtractCytochrome P450 2d6 (cyp2d6) Substrates, Hepatotoxic Drugs +2 Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, fo-ti may increase the levels and clinical effects of drugs metabolized by CYP2D6.
Read the full Ho Shou Wu Liquid Extract + Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Codeine, Phenylephrine interactionEach ingredient & the kinds of drugs it affects
For each ingredient in Ho 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.
Ho Shou Wu liquid extract
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.
Antidiabetes Drugs
Theoretically, fo-ti might increase the risk of hypoglycemia when taken with antidiabetes drugs.
Fo-ti reportedly has hypoglycemic effects.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Brand information
Manufacturer and brand details for Ho Shou Wu, from the product label.
Herb Pharm
See all Herb Pharm products- Name
- Herb Pharm
- City
- Williams
- State
- OR
- ZipCode
- 97544
- Phone Number
- 800-348-4372
- Web Address
- www.herb-pharm.com
Ho Shou Wu by Herb Pharm: Common Questions
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Written and reviewed by the HelloPharmacist editorial staff. Our editorial policy
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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.
The Full Monographs Behind Ho Shou Wu’s Ingredients
Every ingredient we hold a full HelloPharmacist monograph for — uses, evidence, safety, and the complete interaction list.
Sources & How We Checked
Ho 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.
- NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database (DSLD) — The official product label on file for this supplement.
- Natural Medicines (Therapeutic Research Center) — Evidence-graded clinical reference behind the ingredient interaction data.
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
- 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.
- McGuffin M, Hobbs C, Upton R, Goldberg A, eds. American Herbal Products Association's Botanical Safety Handbook. Boca Raton, FL: CRC Press, LLC 1997.
- Brinker F. Herb Contraindications and Drug Interactions. 2nd ed. Sandy, OR: Eclectic Medical Publications, 1998.
- Covington TR, et al. Handbook of Nonprescription Drugs. 11th ed. Washington, DC: American Pharmaceutical Association, 1996.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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
- 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
- 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
- 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
- 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.
- 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
- 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
- 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
- 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
- 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
- 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
- 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.
- 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
- 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
- McGuffin, M., Hobbs, C., Upton, R., and Goldberg, A. American Herbal Products Association's Botanical Safety Handbook. Boca Raton, FL: CRC Press, LLC;1997.
- 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
- 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.
- 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
- 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
- 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
- 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.
- 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
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