Polygonum Multiflorum Root Extract, also known as Fo-Ti or He Shou Wu, is derived from the root of Polygonum multiflorum, a plant highly regarded in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). It is particularly famous for its reputed ability to restore youthful vitality, promote hair health, and improve skin appearance. This extract is rich in bioactive compounds that contribute to its anti-aging, hair growth-promoting, and skin-rejuvenating properties. Polygonum Multiflorum Root Extract is rich in tetrahydroxystilbene glucoside (TSG), phospholipids, anthraquinones, flavonoids, and phytosterols, offering powerful benefits for both hair growth and skin rejuvenation. It is widely used in hair care products to stimulate hair growth, reduce hair loss, and restore natural hair color, and in skincare formulations to fight signs of aging, hydrate the skin, and protect it from oxidative stress.
Active Substances
1. Tetrahydroxystilbene Glucoside (TSG):
A Polyphenol that is a key active compound in Fo-Ti, known for its potent Antioxidant and anti-aging effects. It also supports hair follicle health and encourages hair growth.
2. Phospholipids:
These compounds contribute to skin and hair hydration, promoting healthy cellular membranes.
3. Anthraquinones (Emodin):
Anthraquinones exhibit anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects, supporting both scalp and skin health. Emodin is also thought to play a role in promoting hair growth.
4. Phytosterols:
These plant-based sterols help reduce inflammation, improve skin barrier function, and may also support hair growth by improving scalp health.
5. Flavonoids:
Flavonoids provide antioxidant benefits, protecting both skin and hair cells from oxidative damage caused by free radicals.
6. Zinc and Iron:
These essential minerals found in the extract support healthy hair growth and promote overall skin health by enhancing collagen production and oxygen circulation to skin cells.
Specific Effects
1. Promotes Hair Growth and Reduces Hair Loss:
One of the main benefits of Fo-Ti extract is its ability to stimulate hair growth and reduce hair thinning or loss. TSG and other compounds in the extract are believed to nourish hair follicles, extend the anagen (growth) phase of the hair cycle, and improve scalp health.
2. Anti-Aging Properties:
The high antioxidant content, particularly TSG and flavonoids, helps fight oxidative stress, which is a major cause of skin aging. By neutralizing free radicals, the extract supports collagen production and helps reduce the appearance of wrinkles, fine lines, and age spots.
3. Restores Hair Pigmentation:
In traditional use, Fo-Ti is famous for its ability to restore natural hair color, particularly in cases of premature graying. This is thought to be due to its ability to enhance melanin production in hair follicles, although this effect is largely anecdotal.
4. Improves Skin Hydration and Elasticity:
The phospholipids and other moisturizing agents in the extract enhance skin hydration, helping to improve skin elasticity, reduce dryness, and prevent moisture loss.
5. Anti-Inflammatory and Antimicrobial:
The emodin and flavonoid content help reduce inflammation and fight off microbial infections, making it beneficial for skin conditions like eczema, psoriasis, and acne. It soothes irritated skin and reduces redness.
6. Scalp Health:
By reducing inflammation and increasing scalp hydration, the extract improves overall scalp health, creating an environment that supports healthy hair growth and reduces dandruff and scalp irritation.
7. Antioxidant Protection for Skin:
The extract helps protect the skin from environmental stressors such as UV radiation and pollution, reducing the risk of premature aging and promoting overall skin health.
Applications
1. Hair Care Products:
Frequently included in shampoos, conditioners, hair masks, and serums designed to promote hair growth, reduce hair loss, and restore natural hair color. It is especially popular in products targeting thinning hair or premature graying.
2. Anti-Aging Skincare:
Used in creams, serums, and moisturizers aimed at reducing signs of aging, such as wrinkles, fine lines, and age spots. Its hydrating and antioxidant properties make it valuable in formulations designed to rejuvenate mature skin.
3. Scalp Treatments:
Found in scalp care products to nourish the scalp, reduce dandruff, and create a healthy environment for hair growth. Its anti-inflammatory properties make it beneficial for soothing irritated or inflamed scalps.
4. Dietary Supplements:
Polygonum multiflorum is also taken in supplement form to promote hair growth, enhance skin health, and provide overall anti-aging benefits from within.
5. Herbal Formulations in TCM:
In TCM, it is traditionally used as a tonic to enhance vitality, support kidney and liver health, and maintain youthful hair and skin.
