Polygonum multiflorum

Polygonum multiflorum is also known as Fallopia multiflora belongs to Polygonaceae family.

The English name for this herb is Fo-ti.

Warning: The unprocessed root may cause mild diarrhoea. Root - cooked. It should be washed several times in order to leech out the bitterness. This process will also remove many of the vitamins and minerals from the roots. A famine food, it is only used when all else fails Some people who are sensitive to fo-ti may develope a skin rash. Very high doses may cause numbness in the arms or legs. Although no specific mention has been made for this species, there have been reports that some members of this genus can cause photosensitivity in susceptible people. People with a tendency to rheumatism, arthritis, gout, kidney stones or hyperacidity should take especial caution if including this plant in their diet since it can aggravate their condition

Description

Polygonum multiflorum. Perennial Climber growing to 4.5m. It is hardy to zone 7. It is in flower from September to October. The flowers are hermaphrodite (have both male and female organs) and are pollinated by Insects. We rate it 3 out of 5 for usefulness.

Pharmacological Actions

The pharmacological actions of Polygonum multiflorum are Anti-bacterial, Anti-cholestrolemic, Anti-pyretic, Anti-spasmodic, Anti-tumor, Astringent, Cardiotonic, Demulcent, Deobstruent, Hypoglycaemic, Laxative, Sedative, Tonic.

The pharmacological action of Polygonum multiflorum's Processed root is Mild Laxative.

Indications

The indications of Polygonum multiflorum's Processed root are Menstrual Complaints, Menopausal complaints, Swollen lymph glands, High cholesterol levels.

The indications of Polygonum multiflorum's Stem are Neurasthenia, Ring Worm, Insomnia.

The indications of Polygonum multiflorum's Whole Herb are Atherosclerosis, Fatigue, Constipation, Immune function, High Cholesterol.

Contraindications

None recorded.

Temperament

None recorded.

Occurrence, Taste & Odor

None recorded.

Dosage

Part	Dose	Instructions
Processed root	3.000 – 5.000 g	By boiling in 250 ml (1cup) of water for ten to fifteen mminutes.

Available Brands

None recorded.

Compound Preparations

No Compound Preparation information is available for Polygonum multiflorum.

Substitutes

No information regarding Polygonum multiflorum's substitute is currently available.

Active Constituents

The active constituent of Polygonum multiflorum is Oxalic Acid.

Antidotes

No information regarding Polygonum multiflorum's antidote is currently available.

Toxicity

Polygonum multiflorum

Constituent: Oxalic Acid

Effects: Mineral deficency

Many species contain oxalic acid (the distinctive lemony flavour of sorrel) - whilst not toxic this substance can bind up other minerals making them unavailable to the body and leading to mineral deficiency. Cooking the leaves will reduce their content of oxalic acid.