Fo-ti is an herb native to China and other parts of Asia.
In traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), fo-ti root has been used for various health ailments.
It is also thought to be beneficial for anti-aging.
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That means some supplement products may not contain what the label says.
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Uses of Fo-Ti
Fo-ti can be taken by itself.
There are two versions:
Fo-ti has been used for centuries in TCM.
And while it has many reported uses, many of these are not well-supported by scientific evidence.
Much of the evidence surrounding fo-ti is anecdotal.
Below is a look at some of the research on fo-ti and its uses.
Other active ingredients in fo-ti are thought to enhance learning and memory.
However, these claims only come from animal and lab studies.
Inflammation
Some research suggests that fo-ti may have anti-inflammatory properties.
Lab and animal studies have shown its ability to activate specific cell signaling pathways that block inflammation.
Once again, human trials need to be performed to confirm that fo-ti can, indeed, fight inflammation.
Hyperlipidemia
Fo-ti may have antioxidant effects that may benefit people withhyperlipidemia(high blood fat levels).
Active ingredients in fo-ti, specifically antioxidants, may decreaselow-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterolandtriglyceridelevels in the blood.
Researchers believe fo-ti could also help increase high-density lipoprotein (HDL) or “good cholesterol.”
As with other potential uses of fo-ti, the research surrounding its use for hyperlipidemia is only preliminary.
Human trials should be completed.
Much more research is needed to establish the protective and therapeutic functions of rhein as an effective anticancer agent.
Other Uses
Fo-ti may act like estrogen in your body.
However, this has not been well-supported by science and the amount of estrogen appears very small.
According to an older 2003 lab study, fo-ti extract was found to have “high estrogen activity.
There may be other claimed uses of fo-ti in traditional Chinese medicine.
However, the issue remains that more well-designed research is needed to support these claims.
What Are the Side Effects of Fo-Ti?
Fo-ti may cause some side effects.
These can range from mild to severe.
To best avoid side effects, use fo-ti only as directed.
Severe Side Effects
Liver damage has been reported following the use of fo-ti.
In a review of 450 case reports, researchers looked at reports of liver damage associated with fo-ti use.
They concluded that fo-ti might cause liver damage or reversible toxicity.
Of the 450 case reports, two people died.
Long-term use of fo-ti has also been linked to kidney toxicity in rare cases.
Precautions
Some people may need to take precautions or avoid using fo-ti altogether.
It is unknown if fo-ti is safe for children or pregnant orbreastfeedingpeople.
Due to the uncertainty, it is recommended that these populations avoid it.
Due to the risk of liver damage, people withliver diseasemay also need to avoid using fo-ti.
There is insufficient scientific data to provide a safe recommended dose for fo-ti.
Until better research is available, generalized fo-ti dosage recommendations cannot be made.
The appropriate dose for you may depend on your age, gender, and medical history.
Speak to your healthcare provider to get personalized advice.
Supplement Facts
What Happens if I Take Too Much Fo-Ti?
You may be more likely to experience side effects if you take too much fo-ti.
While fo-ti overdose has not been reported, toxicity is possible.
In particular, liver toxicity has occurred in some who have used fo-ti.
Liver toxicity may occur anywhere from days to weeks after taking fo-ti.
Typically, symptoms of liver damage will disappear shortly after stopping fo-ti.
Interactions
Fo-ti may interact adversely with various medications, herbs, and supplements.
Though reports of interactions are scarce, fo-ti may interact withwarfarinand other blood-thinning medications.
However, there is no strong evidence to disprove these claims either.
More research is needed to learn more about fo-ti’s interactions.
just review your fo-ti supplement label with your healthcare provider to learn of other potential interactions.
They should also be kept out of direct sunlight.
Protect the supplements from exposure to extremely hot or cold temperatures.
Typically, fo-ti supplements should not be refrigerated.
Be sure to keep your supplements out of reach of any small children or pets.
You should discard fo-ti supplements once they reach the expiration date listed on the supplement label or package.
Similar Supplements
Regarding supplements, it can be challenging to choose the right one.
This is because many supplements claim to work in similar ways.
Fo-ti comes in many forms, including teas and supplements.
Food Sources of Fo-Ti
As an herb, fo-ti is not naturally found in foods.
However, it may be used to make a tonic or hot tea.
it’s possible for you to find fo-ti extract, powder, or loose-leaf tea in drinkable form.
If you prefer capsules, there are plenty of supplement options.
Fo-Ti Supplements
Fo-ti is available in its raw form as a root.
you might also find it in powder, extract, tea, and capsule form.
Although fo-ti is mainly consumed by mouth, some people use it topically.
This is done by applying fo-ti extract directly to the skin.
Fo-ti may also be combined with other herbs in classical TCM formulas.
Natural fo-ti supplements are vegan and gluten-free, but check the label to confirm it fits your diet.
Some capsules may be made out of gelatin, made from cows or pigs.
Summary
Fo-ti is an herb that has been used in TCM for centuries.
It has been studied for its purported anti-aging and anti-inflammatory properties.
If you’re thinking of trying fo-ti, speak with your healthcare provider first.
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a systematic review of case reports and case series.Evid Based Complement Alternat Med.
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