Polygonum 14

• Hair disorders: alopecia (hair loss, baldness), premature gray hair, and brittle, unhealthy hair with split ends
• Scalp, skin and nails: dryness with unhealthy complexion
• Other deficiency conditions: anemia and osteoporosis
  

• Increases blood circulation to the scalp
• Provides essential nutrients for hair growth
• Osteogenic effect to promote generation of bones
• Hematopoietic effect to stimulate the production of blood
  

• Because Polygonum 14 is a rich and cloying formula, some patients may experience loose stools after taking it. This can be alleviated by lowering the dosage, or taking it with food.
• Polygonum 14 is contraindicated in individuals with exterior or excess conditions.
• This herbal formula contains herbs that invigorate blood circulation, such as Dang Gui (Radix Angelicae Sinensis). Therefore, patients who are on anticoagulant or antiplatelet therapies, such as Coumadin (warfarin), should use this formula with caution, or not at all, as there may be a higher risk of bleeding and bruising.
• According to most textbooks and contemporary references, the classic entry of "He Shou Wu" is now separated into two entries: the unprepared Sheng Shou Wu (Radix Polygoni Multiflori) and the prepared Zhi He Shou Wu(Radix Polygoni Multiflori Praeparata), as they have significantly different therapeutic effects and side effects. Sheng Shou Wu (Radix Polygoni Multiflori) is a stimulant laxative that treats constipation, but may cause nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhea, and in rare cases, liver disorder (dose- and time-dependent, and reversible upon discontinuation). On the other hand, Zhi He Shou Wu (Radix Polygoni Multiflori Praeparata) is a tonic herb that is safe and well-tolerated. The dramatic changes in the therapeutic effect and safety profile are attributed to the long and complicated processing of the root with Hei Dou (Semen Sojae) through repeated blending, cooking, and drying procedures. When properly processed, the chemical composition of the root changes significantly. Many new compounds are generated from the Maillard reaction (four furanones, two furans, two nitrogen compounds, one pyran, one alcohol and one sulfur
  compound). Furthermore, the preparation process causes changes in the composition of sugars and 16 kinds of amino acids; it also reduces the pH of the herb from 6.28 to 5.61. In summary, these changes give rise to the tonic effects of the prepared roots, and eliminate the adverse reactions associated with the unprepared roots. Note: Due to medical risks and legal liabilities, it is prudent to exercise caution and not use this herb in either prepared or unprepared forms in patients with pre-existing or risk factors of liver diseases.

• Biotin, found in green peas, oats, soybeans, sunflower seeds and walnuts, is essential for healthy hair and skin. Kelp and seaweed are also excellent choices to include in the daily diet.
  
• Protein is the essential make-up of hair. Therefore, the intake of food high in protein such as milk, fish, egg, and beans is recommended.
  
• Foods that are high in collagen will improve the elasticity and shine of hair, such as wild yam, taro, lotus root, and tendons.
  
• Intake of vitamins A and B are also recommended, as they can improve circulation to the scalp and promote hair growth.
  
• Increase intake of water, vegetables, fruits, seeds and nuts for patients with dry skin.
  
• Those with dandruff can increase the intake of vitamin B6 and B12.
  
• Consume adequate amounts of vegetables for vitamins, as they improve circulation to the scalp and promote hair growth.
• Avoid cigarette smoking and second-hand smoke, sugar, alcohol, caffeine, and junk food.
  
• Stay out of the sun as it can dry and damage skin and hair.
  
• Stress can impair the delivery of nutrients to the scalp as it causes stagnation. Patient should be advised to stay away from stressful situations.
  
• Natural bristle brushes are recommended. Brushes with sharp tips should not be used as they might scrape the scalp. To invigorate circulation to the scalp, brush hair 100 times from the back of the head towards the front with the head down at least twice a day.
  
• Untangle hair with a brush before shampooing. Mild shampoo should also be selected to avoid overstimulation to the scalp. Water temperature should not be too hot to avoid further hair loss. The scalp can be massaged while shampooing. Be sure to rinse completely, leaving no shampoo or conditioning residues to clog up the hair pores.
• Hair should be dried by gently padding on the towel instead of rubbing back and forth.
• Blow-drying and use of hair products such as gel, mousse, and hairspray are not recommended. Chemical treatments, perms, and color should also be avoided.
  
• Avoid swimming as much as possible as chlorine will do much damage to the hair. If one cannot avoid swimming, it is recommended that the patient wear a cap or rub some baby oil into the hair.
• Get regular exercise and establish a normal pattern of sleep.

Take 4 capsules three times daily on an empty stomach with warm water. Polygonum 14 should be taken continuously for two months prior to making an evaluation. Most patients report changes in hair texture within two months, and changes in hair color in four to six months.

• Radix Paeoniae Alba
• Rhizoma Chuanxiong
• Fructus Jujubae
• Radix Angelicae Sinensis
• Radix et Rhizoma Glycyrrhizae
• Radix Puerariae Lobatae
• Ramulus Cinnamomi
• Semen Sesami Nigrum
• Radix Astragali
• Herba Ecliptae
• Fructus Ligustri Lucidi
• Fructus Mori
• Radix Rehmanniae Praeparata