Arjun (Terminalia arjuna) vs Fo Ti (Polygonum multiflorum)

Arjun (Terminalia arjuna)

Fo Ti (Polygonum multiflorum)

About

Arjun is an evergreen tree that can grow up to about 100 ft (30 m) high, bearing pale yellow flowers and cone-shaped leaves. Its bark has a longstanding reputation in Ayurvedic medicine - used for at least 3,000 years - as a primary heart remedy. Traditional texts report its effectiveness in angina, congestive heart failure, and poor coronary circulation, with modern research suggesting it helps reduce blood cholesterol and may stabilize heart rhythms.

Fo ti (Polygonum multiflorum), also known as he shou wu, is a perennial vine prized in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) as a major longevity and rejuvenating tonic. Its root is revered for balancing qi (vital energy), tonifying the liver and kidneys, and potentially reversing signs of premature aging, including gray hair.

Safety & precautions

Not recommended during pregnancy unless supervised by a qualified healthcare professional. Owing to conflicting research on how it affects blood pressure and heart rate, it should be taken only with professional guidance.

Digestive Weakness & Diarrhea: Fo ti is not recommended for those with poor digestion, diarrhea, or heavy mucus congestion. Potential Liver Toxicity: In high doses, concerns about liver damage exist; use reputable, properly prepared forms. General Use: Always purchase “prepared” fo ti root from a reliable source.

Safety text above is printed in full and is never abbreviated. For each plant’s complete precautions, drug and food interactions and preparation notes, open its own page - both are free.