Shou Wu Chih
Shou Wu Chih (simplified Chinese: 首乌汁; traditional Chinese: 首烏汁; pinyin: Shǒu Wū Zhī) is a Chinese patent medicine that is reputed to act as a tonic and to turn gray hair black.
Use
Shou wu chih is sold in glass bottles. It is generally consumed by adding between one and three tablespoons to a cup of hot water, tea, or soup.
Shou wu chih is a liquid tonic formula for men and women. It is claimed by the manufacturers that it gently increases the energy level and it tonifies, warms, and invigorates the blood, nourishes the liver and kidneys, and benefits the eyes. Some believe that regular use strengthens the bones and tendons, and improves sleep.
Production and export
Shou Wu Chih is produced in Guangzhou, Guangdong, China, under the brand name Yang Cheng. It is exported to other nations, including the United States.
Many Shou Wu tonics are produced in many cities in China and can be purchased at many pharmacy shops in China. Some health food stores in the United States import Shou Wu capsules and Shou Wu herb.
Ingredients
- Root of Reynoutria multiflora (synonym Polygonum multiflorum) (Radix Polygoni multiflori, also called fo-ti or ho shou wu) - 25%
- Root of Angelica sinensis (Chinese angelica, also called dong quai or danggui) - 25%
- Rhizome of Polygonatum sibiricum (Solomon's Seal) - 20%
- Rhizome of Rehmannia glutinosa - 10%
- Rhizome of Ligusticum wallichii (Chinese lovage, also called Ligusticum chuanxiong) - 10%
- Root of Angelica dahurica (Dahurian Angelica, also called Angelica glabra Makino) - 7%
- Fruit of Amomum villosum (Villous Amomum, a type of cardamom) - 2%
- Clove - 1%
Other ingredients may also include:
- Hedychium coronarium (white ginger)
- Jambosa caryophyllus Nied.
- Citron (Citrus medica)
- Conioselinum univittatum Turcz.
(Note: Fo-ti, though not actually a Chinese name, is commonly used in the US for products containing Reynoutria multiflora.)