Herbal Remedies

Shou Wu Pian is a traditional Chinese tonic herbal product. The name literally translates as Shou Wu Pill, it is composed of a singular herb, called in Chinese Shou Wu, or He Shou Wu. The botanical name of this herb is Polygonum multiflorum.
(The same herb is also marketed with the name, Fo-Ti, or Fo-Ti Teng.)
Shou Wu Pian from China are available most commonly in a tablet form which has been coated with sugar, which some people think make them easier to swallow. They are also available plain, but may be harder to find.
Because of recent problems with contaminants in Chinese products, it may be safer to purchase Shou Wu products made in the United States. There are many brands available, such as Blue Poppy Herbs, a company founded by American acupuncturist, Bob Flaws, Kan Herbals, which are formulated by Ted Kaptchuk OMD, (who was one of my teachers), and Dragon Herbs, founded by Ron Teeguarden, an American herbalist who specializes in Chinese herbs, and his wife, Yanlin.
Shou Wu has been traditionally used as a tonic, primarily for the Liver, and Kidneys and Blood. (Please note that in traditional Chinese medicine, these are not identical to the western anatomical structures and substances, liver, kidney, and blood, but are more functional descriptions. I will elaborate further on these distinctions, in the future. If I am referring to the western structure or substance, I will use lower case letters, if I am referring to the Chinese concepts, I will capitalize the first letter.) It is considered to be a first quality rejuvenating tonic, and is often used to treat premature aging. It is a very gentle tonic, very safe, even in large doses.
It has also been used to treat insomnia, I find it useful for insomnia which is related to a deficiency condition.
Stories about Shou Wu claim that it will restore grey hair to its original color, and increase fertility, and maintain strength and vitality to the aged.
Shou Wu has also been recommended for both hypoglycemia and diabetes.
The part of the herb used for Shou Wu Pian is the root.
The information presented here is not intended to diagnose or treat any medical conditions. If you have any medical problem, please consult an appropriate medical practitioner.

A reader asked me if I could recommend any natural remedies for acne. There is an herb which I like to recommend for almost any skin disorder, and that is burdock root. This is an herb traditionally used as a blood and liver cleanser and is also considered to help balance hormones in the body. It is generally recommended for acne, eczema, psoriasis, and various rashes.

It's not a treatment that works overnight, but usually after about 4 to 6 weeks of consistent use there is significant improvement. It is a mild herb, and safe to take for long periods, it helps the liver and gallbladder release more bile into the intestines, so should be used with caution if there is any chronic diarrhea. (Bile has a natural laxative effect on the intestines, so it might make the condition worse.) Otherwise, burdock helps improve digestion and the functioning of the digestive organs.

You can use burdock root to make tea and drink it several times daily, or you can buy burdock root extract or capsules; take them according to the manufacturer's directions.

It should not be taken during pregnancy, except under experienced medical supervision.

Remember the information provided here is not a substitute for qualified medical advice. If you need medical advice please see a doctor.