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Dietary supplement

Hu Zhang Ingredients & Drug Interactions

by Hawaii Pharm

Liquid Category: Botanical
Most serious interaction: Moderate
The interaction bottom line Most serious interaction: Moderate

Hu Zhang is a dietary supplement by Hawaii Pharm with 1 active ingredient. Its ingredients are commonly taken for source of resveratrol, heart and circulation support, inflammation.Based on those ingredients, 826 medications have a known interaction with it, the most serious rated moderate. The ingredients most likely to interact are Polygonum cuspidatum Root Extract, Dry. Use the checker below to test your specific medication, or read the full HelloPharmacist Interaction Report.

HelloPharmacist Scorecard of Hu Zhang by Hawaii 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.

From our pharmacy team — supplement deep dive

What’s inside

Full disclosure
Ingredient Transparency · database check
Full

Every active ingredient lists its own amount on the label.

Why this rating?
  • The label discloses an exact amount for 1 of its 1 active ingredient.
  • No proprietary blends here — you can verify the dose of every single component.

Hu Zhang by Hawaii Pharm contains one active ingredient: Polygonum cuspidatum Root Extract (the dried form), traditionally used in Asian herbalism. The liquid formula also includes alcohol, water, and glycerin as inactive ingredients to preserve and deliver the extract.

Does it work?

Couldn't assess
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 assessable

This is a single-ingredient Hu Zhang product and its label doesn't state a use — see Hu Zhang's own graded uses on its monograph.

Why this rating?
  • We looked at the product name, claims, and label statements and couldn't find a stated purpose to grade.

The evidence for hu zhang isn't established in our data. The product is used traditionally for conditions including hepatitis, rheumatoid arthritis, wound healing, gout, osteoarthritis, and unstable angina, but we hold insufficient reliable evidence to rate its effectiveness for any of those uses.

If you're considering it for a specific health concern, that's a conversation to have with your doctor or pharmacist about what the science actually supports.

The evidence, ingredient by ingredient Hu Zhang

How safe is it?

Some data gaps
Safety Information · database check
Some gaps

Safety data exists for these ingredients, but with some important gaps.

Why this rating?
  • We hold adverse-effect (side-effect) data for 0 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.

Hu zhang is generally used in traditional medicine, but human safety data for supplements are limited. Its emodin content may cause digestive upset.

There isn't enough safety information to recommend it during pregnancy—the data advises against use because some compounds may affect the uterus or bowel. Similarly, there's not enough safety data to use it while breastfeeding, so it's best avoided in that situation too.

Side effects, ingredient by ingredient Hu Zhang

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 — Hu Zhang.
  • The most serious interaction on file is rated Moderate.
  • Some involve high-stakes drug classes: anticoagulant / antiplatelet drugs.
  • For scale: 827 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.

Before you take this product, double-check with your own doctor or pharmacist if you're on blood thinners or antiplatelet drugs (like warfarin or aspirin) — the bleeding risk is real. Also flag any drugs metabolized by your liver, including seizure medications like carbamazepine, and any hormone replacement therapy.

These interactions are mostly theoretical but documented in lab work.

Check your own medication Run your meds through the checker above

The bottom line

Scorecard at a glanceFully disclosed formula with no assessable stated purpose. Moderate medication interactions have been identified, and some safety-information gaps remain.

Hu Zhang is a traditional herbal extract with limited human safety data and unproven effectiveness for its common uses. Because it may interact with blood thinners, seizure medications, hormone therapy, and many drugs your liver processes, you'll need to clear it with your own doctor or pharmacist before starting, especially if you're on any prescription medication.

It's not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding.

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 Oct 24, 2023.

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 Hu Zhang, straight from the product label.

Brand Hawaii Pharm
Barcode (UPC) 840253628152
Net contents 4 Fluid Ounce(s); 120 mL
Market status On market
Date entered into DSLD Oct 24, 2023
DSLD ID 301686
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 Hu Zhang by Hawaii Pharm, 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:
0.7 mL
Maximum serving Sizes:
1 mL
Servings per container
120
UPC/BARCODE
840253628152
IngredientAmount% DV
Polygonum cuspidatum Root Extract, Dry983 mg--

Other ingredients: Alcohol, Water, Glycerin

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.
Brand IP Statement(s)

Hawaii Pharm Herbal Extract Highest quality since 2008

Suggested/Recommended/Usage/Directions

Suggested use: Shake well before using. For adults add about 20-30 drops (0.7-1 mL, one full squeeze of the dropper bulb) to some juice or water, up to 4 times a day.

Precautions

Warning: We recommend to seek expert medical advice before taking.

Do not use if you are allergic to any ingredients.

Consult your physician before giving to children under 18, during pregnancy, if nursing or taking medications.

Consult your physician before giving to children under 18, during pregnancy, if nursing or taking medications.

May affect the ability to drive and operate machinery. May have contraindications, can cause side effects and adverse reactions. Do not use if seal is broken or missing.

Keep out of the reach of children!

Storage

Store in a cool dry place.

Seals/Symbols

cGMP Made in compliance with cGMP 21 CFR 111 in an FDA registered and inspected facility.

Organic Alcohol Based USA Made in United States of America

FDA Disclaimer Statement

This product has not been evaluated by the FDA and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

General Statements

Scan this QR-code to get 15% discount on your next purchase. Limited time deal.

Formula

Polygonum cuspidatum

Organic Alcohol Based

Formulation

Only natural ingredients Purity is laboratory tested and verified

All the raw materials are gluten-free by their nature No artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives

Not tested on animals

Organic Alcohol Based

Made in USA, Hawaii

FDA Statement of Identity

Herbal Supplement

See for yourself

Hu Zhang by Hawaii Pharm label

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

What’s inside

The Ingredients in Hu Zhang by Hawaii Pharm

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

Serving size0.7 mL Dosage formLiquid Servings per container120 Amounts shown are per serving.

Polygonum cuspidatum Root Extract, Dry

Interacts with
826 drugs
983 mg per serving

Hu Zhang (Japanese knotweed root) is a traditional Chinese herb that is one of the richest natural sources of resveratrol and emodin. Some lab and ear...

Polygonum cuspidatum Root Extract, Dry monograph & interactions

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

Interaction report

Hu Zhang by Hawaii Pharm Drug Interactions

Want to check YOUR meds against Hu Zhang?

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
826Drugs
826 Moderate

Ingredients driving the most interactions

Each ingredient & the kinds of drugs it affects

For each ingredient in Hu Zhang 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.

Polygonum cuspidatum Root Extract, Dry7 drug types · 826 drugs

Anticoagulant/Antiplatelet Drugs

Theoretically, hu zhang might increase the risk of bleeding when taken with anticoagulant or antiplatelet drugs.
Hu zhang contains the constituent resveratrol. Resveratrol seems to have antiplatelet effects.

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

Theoretically, hu zhang might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP1A2.
Hu zhang contains the constituent resveratrol. In vitro research shows that resveratrol might inhibit the CYP1A2 enzyme. This interaction has not been reported in humans.

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

Theoretically, hu zhang might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP2C19.
Hu zhang contains the constituent resveratrol. In vitro research shows that resveratrol might inhibit the CYP2C19 enzyme. This interaction has not been reported in humans.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Cytochrome P450 2E1 (Cyp2E1) Substrates

Theoretically, hu zhang might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP2E1.
Hu zhang contains the constituent resveratrol. In vitro research shows that resveratrol might inhibit the CYP2E1 enzyme. Also, a pharmacokinetic study shows that taking resveratrol 500 mg daily for 10 days prior to taking a single dose of chlorzoxazone 250 mg increases the maximum concentration of chlorzoxazone by about 54%, the area under the curve of chlorzoxazone by about 72%, and the half-life of chlorzoxazone by about 35%. Chlorzoxazone is used as a probe drug for CYP2E1.

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

Theoretically, hu zhang might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.
Hu zhang contains the constituent resveratrol. In vitro research shows that resveratrol might inhibit the CYP3A4 enzyme. However, a clinical study in adults with NAFLD found that adding resveratrol 3000 mg daily for 8 weeks did not necessitate dose adjustments to any established medications metabolized by CYP3A4.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Estrogens

Theoretically, hu zhang might competitively inhibit the effects of estrogen replacement therapy.
In vitro research shows that hu zhang might have estrogenic activity.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Carbamazepine (Tegretol)

Theoretically, hu zhang might increase the effects and adverse effects of carbamazepine.
In animals, blood and tissue levels of carbamazepine were increased when given in combination with hu zhang. It is thought that increased levels of carbamazepine are due to cytochrome P450 3A4 (CYP3A4) inhibition. This interaction has not been reported in humans.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
The maker

Brand information

Manufacturer and brand details for Hu Zhang, from the product label.

Hawaii Pharm

See all Hawaii Pharm products
Name
Hawaii Pharm LLC
Street Address
510 Sumner St. Ste. 613
City
Honolulu
State
HI
ZipCode
96817
Phone Number
888-854-2924
Web Address
www.hawaiipharm.com
Pharmacist Counseling Corner

Hu Zhang by Hawaii Pharm: Common Questions

Does Hu Zhang by Hawaii Pharm interact with any medications?
Yes. Based on its ingredients, Hu Zhang has a known interaction with 826 medications. Use the checker to see how it interacts with a specific drug.
How can one product interact with so many drugs?
Hu Zhang 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 Hu Zhang if I'm pregnant or breastfeeding?
No. The safety data advises against it during pregnancy because some compounds in hu zhang may affect the uterus or bowel. There's also not enough safety information to recommend it while breastfeeding. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about whether this product is right for you.
Will hu zhang actually treat my arthritis or hepatitis?
We don't have reliable evidence to say whether it works for those conditions. It's used in traditional medicine for them, but we hold insufficient data to rate its effectiveness. Your doctor can help you weigh the traditional use against what modern evidence shows.
What's resveratrol, and why does it matter for drug interactions?
Resveratrol is a compound naturally present in hu zhang. It can slow down certain liver enzymes that break down medications, potentially letting drugs build up in your bloodstream. It also has blood-thinning effects of its own.
Will hu zhang cause digestive problems?
Hu zhang's emodin content may cause digestive upset in some people, though the product facts don't list specific side effects from trials. If you experience stomach issues after starting it, stop and talk to your pharmacist.
Is this a liquid I can mix into drinks?
Yes, Hu Zhang by Hawaii Pharm is a liquid extract made with alcohol, water, and glycerin, so you can mix it into beverages if you choose.

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

Not sure if Hu Zhang is safe with your meds?

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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.

Hu Zhang label
Sources

Sources & How We Checked

Hu Zhang'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 19 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.

Hu Zhang 19 references
  1. Pace-Asciak CR, Rounova O, Hahn SE, et al. Wines and grape juices as modulators of platelet aggregation in healthy human subjects. Clin Chim Acta 1996;246:163-82. PubMed
  2. Bertelli AA, Giovannini L, Bernini W, et al. Antiplatelet activity of cis-resveratrol. Drugs Exp Clin Res 1996;22:61-3.
  3. Pace-Asciak CR, Hahn S, Diamandis EP, et al. The red wine phenolics trans-resveratrol and quercetin block human platelet aggregation and eicosanoid synthesis: implications for protection against coronary heart disease. Clin Chim Acta 1995;235:207-19.
  4. Bertelli A, Bertelli AA, Gozzini A, Giovannini L. Plasma and tissue resveratrol concentrations and pharmacological activity. Drugs Exp Clin Res 1998;24:133-8.
  5. Bertelli AA, Giovannini L, Giannessi D, et al. Antiplatelet activity of synthetic and natural resveratrol in red wine. Int J Tissue React 1995;17:1-3.
  6. Piver B, Berthou F, Dreano Y, Lucas D. Inhibition of CYP3A, CYP1A and CYP2E1 activities by resveratrol and other non volatile red wine components. Toxicol Lett 2001;125:83-91. PubMed
  7. Matsuda H, Shimoda H, Morikawa T, Yoshikawa M. Phytoestrogens from the roots of Polygonum cuspidatum (Polygonaceae): structure-requirement of hydroxyanthraquinones for estrogenic activity. Bioorg Med Chem Lett 2001;11:1839-42. PubMed
  8. 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
  9. Chang, T. K., Chen, J., and Lee, W. B. Differential inhibition and inactivation of human CYP1 enzymes by trans-resveratrol: evidence for mechanism-based inactivation of CYP1A2. J.Pharmacol.Exp.Ther. 2001;299(3):874-882.
  10. Dobrydneva, Y., Williams, R. L., and Blackmore, P. F. trans-Resveratrol inhibits calcium influx in thrombin-stimulated human platelets. Br.J.Pharmacol. 1999;128(1):149-157.
  11. Kirk, R. I., Deitch, J. A., Wu, J. M., and Lerea, K. M. Resveratrol decreases early signaling events in washed platelets but has little effect on platalet in whole food. Blood Cells Mol.Dis. 2000;26(2):144-150.
  12. Zbikowska, H. M. and Olas, B. Antioxidants with carcinostatic activity (resveratrol, vitamin E and selenium) in modulation of blood platelet adhesion. J Physiol Pharmacol. 2000;51(3):513-520.
  13. Olas, B., Wachowicz, B., Saluk-Juszczak, J., and Zielinski, T. Effect of resveratrol, a natural polyphenolic compound, on platelet activation induced by endotoxin or thrombin. Thromb.Res 8-15-2002;107(3-4):141-145. PubMed
  14. Yu, C., Shin, Y. G., Kosmeder, J. W., Pezzuto, J. M., and van Breemen, R. B. Liquid chromatography/tandem mass spectrometric determination of inhibition of human cytochrome P450 isozymes by resveratrol and resveratrol-3-sulfate. Rapid Commun.Mass Spectro PubMed
  15. Ma, Z. H. and Ma, Q. Y. Resveratrol: a medical drug for acute pancreatitis. World J Gastroenterol. 6-7-2005;11(21):3171-3174. PubMed
  16. Pendurthi, U. R., Williams, J. T., and Rao, L. V. Resveratrol, a polyphenolic compound found in wine, inhibits tissue factor expression in vascular cells : A possible mechanism for the cardiovascular benefits associated with moderate consumption of wine. PubMed
  17. Chachay VS, Macdonald GA, Martin JH, Whitehead JP, O'Moore-Sullivan TM, Lee P, Franklin M, Klein K, Taylor PJ, Ferguson M, Coombes JS, Thomas GP, Cowin GJ, Kirkpatrick CM, Prins JB, Hickman IJ. Resveratrol does not benefit patients with nonalcoholic fatty
  18. Bedada SK, Neerati P. Resveratrol Pretreatment Affects CYP2E1 Activity of Chlorzoxazone in Healthy Human Volunteers. Phytother Res. 2016;30(3):463-8. PubMed
  19. Chi YC, Lin SP, Hou YC. A new herb-drug interaction of Polygonum cuspidatum, a resveratrol-rich nutraceutical, with carbamazepine in rats. Toxicol Appl Pharmacol 2012;263(3):315-22. PubMed

See these in context on the Hu Zhang 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

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