Polygonum Multiflorum Pill

[Composition] Polygonum multiflorum (equal parts of male and female roots, neither scraped nor pounded with iron tools; soak in the first rinsing water of rice for one night, then strain and place in a silver vessel the next day. First, arrange a layer of jujubes, each split open, then spread a layer of Polygonum multiflorum on top, followed by another layer of jujubes and another layer of Polygonum multiflorum until all is used. The next day, pour clean river water over the herbs to a depth of about five fingers’ width, and cook over a gentle fire until the jujubes are extremely soft and the Polygonum multiflorum is slightly tender. Remove the jujubes and discard. Select only the Polygonum multiflorum, soak briefly in clean water, then scrape off the black skin and froth from both sides with a bamboo knife until clean. Slice thinly with a bamboo knife and dry slowly over a gentle fire to obtain 500 g of the purified herb.

[Usage] Grind the above ingredients into a fine powder and process them with refined honey to make pills the size of Sterculia platanifolia seeds (used as a reference for size). Take 60 pills daily with warm wine or rice soup on an empty stomach. After half a month, increase the dosage to 70 – 80 pills; after another month, increase it to 100 pills. Noticeable effects will be observed after 100 days of administration.

[Functions] Blackens the beard and hair, strengthens the teeth; prolonged use prolongs life and preserves youthful appearance.

【Indications】 Graying of beard and hair, loose teeth, premature aging.

[Commentary] Polygonum multiflorum: The red variety is considered male, and the white variety is considered female. Compendium of Materia Medica states: “Polygonum multiflorum (Fallopia multiflora) is a medicinal herb for the Foot Jueyin (LR) and Shaoyin (KI) meridians. The white variety enters the qi aspect, while the red variety enters the blood aspect. The Kidney (KI) governs storage and containment, while the Liver (LR) governs dispersion and drainage. This herb is warm in nature and bitter and astringent in taste. Its bitter property nourishes the Kidney, and its warm property nourishes the Liver. It can restrain and consolidate essence and qi, thus it has the effects of nourishing blood and benefiting the Liver, consolidating essence and strengthening the Kidney, fortifying sinews and bones, and blackening the beard and hair. It is an excellent tonic herb.

Q1: What is polygonum multiflorum pill used for?

A1: Polygonum multiflorum pill is traditionally used in Chinese medicine to nourish the liver and kidneys, which may help with conditions like premature graying, dizziness, and lower back pain. It is also commonly employed to support overall vitality and longevity, aligning with its reputation as a restorative tonic.

Q2: What are the benefits of polygonum multiflorum pill?

A2: The benefits of polygonum multiflorum pill include promoting hair growth, improving skin health, and supporting joint and tendon flexibility. Additionally, it is believed to enhance blood quality and circulation, thereby aiding in the reduction of age-related symptoms such as fatigue and cognitive decline.

Q3: Can polygonum multiflorum pill be used for hair growth?

A3: Yes, polygonum multiflorum pill is widely used for hair growth and preventing premature graying. Its active compounds are thought to stimulate hair follicles and improve scalp circulation, making it a popular natural remedy for thinning hair and alopecia.

Q4: How is polygonum multiflorum pill prepared according to traditional methods?

A4: Traditional preparation involves soaking polygonum multiflorum roots in the first rinsing water of rice overnight, then layering them with split jujubes in a silver vessel. The mixture is then covered with clean river water and processed to create a potent pill that enhances the herb’s efficacy.

Q5: Are there any side effects of polygonum multiflorum pill?

A5: While generally safe when used appropriately, polygonum multiflorum pill may cause mild digestive upset or allergic reactions in some individuals. It is important to follow recommended dosages and consult a healthcare professional, especially for those with liver conditions or taking other medications.