Description
Fo-Ti, also known as He Shou Wu or Polygonum multiflorum, is a traditional Chinese herb cultivated primarily in China and other parts of East Asia. The production of Fo-Ti begins with cultivating the plant in well-drained, fertile soil, usually in shaded areas to mimic its natural forest habitat. It thrives in temperate climates and requires regular watering to support its growth. Seeds or root cuttings are planted, and the plants are allowed to grow for several years, typically three to four years, to ensure the roots develop fully and reach optimal quality.Harvesting Fo-Ti involves carefully digging up the mature roots, usually in the autumn when the plant’s energy is concentrated in the roots. The roots are meticulously cleaned to remove soil and impurities. Traditional processing methods often involve boiling the roots in a mixture of black bean soup and then drying them, which is believed to enhance the herb’s beneficial properties. The dried roots are then cut into slices or ground into powder, depending on their intended use.
