Polygonum Multiflorum Root Extract (He Shou Wu/Fo-Ti) is derived from the root of Polygonum multiflorum and is used in skincare and haircare for its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and purported hair-darkening and conditioning properties, largely attributed to stilbenes, anthraquinones, and flavonoids. It is traditionally used in East Asian medicine and increasingly appears in topical cosmetic formulations.
| Reported effect | How often | Notes |
|---|---|---|
Allergic contact dermatitis / skin sensitization | Rare | Topical use may cause localized redness, itching, or irritation in sensitive individuals. |
Photosensitivity reactions | Rare | Anthraquinone constituents may theoretically increase sensitivity to sunlight. |
Hepatotoxicity | Uncommon | Well-documented with oral ingestion of the herb; not clearly associated with topical cosmetic use but noted in safety literature. |
Frequencies reflect typical cosmetic use reported in the literature, not a guarantee for your skin.