π Common Names (6 Languages)
β Evidence-Based Benefits
Legendary longevity herb in TCM - "black-haired Mr. He." Studies show He Shou Wu may improve lipid profiles and reduce oxidative stress (PMID: 22975032). Animal studies demonstrate hair-darkening effects and neuroprotection. May benefit liver and kidney function, enhance fertility, reduce cholesterol. CRITICAL: Must use PREPARED (processed) root - raw root hepatotoxic. Prepared form (Zhi He Shou Wu) much safer. Stilbenes and anthraquinones primary compounds.
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π¬ Clinical Trials & Evidence
βοΈ Evidence-Based Research: Clinical trials provide the highest level of evidence for herbal efficacy and safety. The trials listed below represent peer-reviewed research registered on ClinicalTrials.gov. Each trial includes detailed protocols, patient populations, interventions tested, and measurable outcomes. Click links to access full trial details and published results.
Study: Lipid profile improvement and antioxidant effects
Review: Neuroprotective and anti-aging properties
π Find More Clinical Trials
Search for additional ongoing and completed trials investigating this herb's therapeutic effects:
π‘ Research Tip: Use both common name and scientific name when searching for comprehensive results. Filter by "Completed" trials to find published outcomes.
π Drug Interactions
β οΈ CRITICAL SAFETY INFORMATION
Herb-drug interactions can be serious and potentially life-threatening. Always inform your healthcare provider about all herbs, supplements, and medications you are taking. The interactions listed below are supported by clinical evidence and case reports. Citations link to peer-reviewed research on PubMed.
π Evidence-Based Interactions: Each interaction below includes research citations (PMID links) documenting the mechanism, clinical significance, and management recommendations. Click citations to access full studies.
β οΈ Hepatotoxic Medications (Acetaminophen, Statins)
Risk: Increased risk of liver damage
Action: AVOID combination. Monitor liver enzymes closely if must use
Laxatives
Effect: Contains anthraquinones - additive laxative effects
Action: May cause excessive diarrhea and electrolyte loss
Estrogen/Hormonal Medications
Effect: Possible estrogenic effects
Action: Caution in hormone-sensitive conditions
Iron Supplements
Effect: May reduce iron absorption
Action: Take iron and He Shou Wu 2-4 hours apart
π Key Interaction Databases & Resources
- Natural Medicines Database: Professional herb-drug interaction checker
- PubMed: Search for latest interaction research
- Drugs.com: Drug interaction checker
- Micromedex: Hospital-grade interaction database (subscription required)
π‘ Clinical Tip: Show your healthcare provider this page and the linked research citations when discussing potential interactions.
β οΈ Safety Information
Adverse Events
HEPATOTOXICITY WARNING: Raw (unprepared) root can cause serious liver damage. Prepared root generally safe but hepatotoxicity still reported in some cases. Monitor liver enzymes if using long-term. May cause diarrhea, stomach upset. Rare allergic reactions. DISCONTINUE immediately if jaundice, dark urine, or abdominal pain. Ensure product is properly prepared (processed with black bean liquid). Quality and preparation crucial for safety.
β Contraindications
AVOID raw (unprepared) root - HEPATOTOXIC. CAUTION with prepared form - monitor liver function. Avoid in liver disease. DISCONTINUE if any signs of hepatotoxicity (jaundice, dark urine, pain). Avoid in pregnancy/breastfeeding. May interact with laxatives (contains anthraquinones). DISCONTINUE before surgery. Avoid with estrogen-sensitive conditions (preliminary estrogenic effects). May interact with iron supplements.
𧬠Mechanism of Action
2,3,5,4'-tetrahydroxystilbene-2-O-Ξ²-D-glucoside (TSG) and emodin provide: (1) Antioxidant - potent free radical scavenging, (2) Neuroprotective - may enhance brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), (3) Anti-aging effects via telomerase activation (preliminary), (4) Lipid-lowering via reduced cholesterol absorption, (5) Hepatoprotective (prepared form) and nephroprotective, (6) Hair growth stimulation (traditional use, limited modern evidence), (7) Immune modulation.
π Dosage & Administration
ONLY USE PREPARED (Zhi) ROOT: 9-15g prepared root decoction daily OR 500-1000mg extract 1-2 times daily. NEVER use raw root internally. Traditional preparation: steamed with black beans. For hair health: 3-6g daily. For cholesterol: 6-12g daily. Monitor liver enzymes if using >3 months. Take with food. Effects after 8-12 weeks minimum.
βοΈ Note: Consult healthcare provider for appropriate dosing, especially if taking medications.
π Additional Resources
π WHO Monograph
Available in WHO Monographs on Selected Medicinal Plants
π¬ PubMed Search
π§ͺ ClinicalTrials.gov
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Data Retrieval Date: November 29, 2025
Compiled by: Sheraz Ahmed
License: CC BY-SA 4.0
Citation: Ahmed, S. (2025). Medicinal Herbs Database. Clinical Corner. https://welovelmc.com/medical-tools.htm