Polygonum Multiflorum (Fo-Ti / He Shou Wu)

Polygonum multiflorum, also called fo-ti or he shou wu, is used primarily to support hair pigmentation and scalp health. In traditional Chinese medicine, it has been used for centuries to promote dark, healthy-looking hair. Scientifically, it is studied for its ability to stimulate melanocyte activity, support natural melanin production, and deliver antioxidant protection to the follicle environment. It is found in To The Root®, Good Night, Grey®, Wash, and Not Today, Grey™ as part of the Mela-9® Complex.

Research suggests polygonum multiflorum may support both. Its primary active compound, TSG, has been shown to stimulate melanocyte proliferation and tyrosinase activity, which are central to melanin production and natural hair color. Fo-ti has also been linked to improved scalp microcirculation, which supports the follicle environment needed for healthy hair growth. At Arey, we use it as part of the Mela-9® Complex to target the biology behind grey hair rather than masking it.

Fo-Ti has a long history of traditional use and is generally well tolerated. Research has identified concern about liver injury which typically involves large amounts of the raw herb, often consumed in doses up to 15,000 mg per day. By contrast, a micro-dose of carefully processed Fo-Ti present in NTG is safer both because of its processing and its low dose. This dose is formulated to deliver subtle supportive benefits of the botanical to the hair follicles while minimizing the risk of adverse reactions. However, if you have specific health concerns, a history of liver disease, or are taking medications, we recommend consulting your healthcare provider before adding Fo-Ti to your routine.

The most direct way to incorporate polygonum multiflorum is through the Mela-9® Complex, which pairs fo-ti with eleven other clinically studied actives across four Arey grey hair products: To The Root®, our daily scalp serum; Good Night, Grey™, our overnight scalp serum; Wash, our shampoo; and Not Today, Grey®, our daily OTC supplement. For best results, use all three consistently to address the biology of grey hair from the inside and out.

Hair follicle cycles are slow by nature, and ingredients that work at the follicle level take time to show results. Most people begin noticing changes in scalp health, hair texture, and early pigmentation support within 8 to 12 weeks of consistent use. Arey recommends using To The Root®, Good Night, Grey®, and Not Today, Grey™ together for a minimum of 90 days to give polygonum multiflorum and the full Mela-9® Complex the time to work.