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Can Polygonum multiflorum be combined with Cornus officinalis?

Mar 22, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhang Xiuhong
Introduction
Under normal circumstances, Fo-Ti (Polygonum multiflorum) can be combined with Cornus officinalis (Shanzhuyu), but this should be done under the guidance of a Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) practitioner. The main function of Fo-Ti is to nourish the liver and kidneys and benefit essence and blood, while Cornus officinalis can also tonify the liver and kidneys and has an astringent effect to consolidate and relieve symptoms such as excessive sweating or diarrhea. When used together, these two herbs can enhance the effects of nourishing the liver and kidneys and nourishing the blood to calm the mind, and are suitable for symptoms such as deficiency of the liver and kidneys and insufficiency of essence and blood.

Generally speaking, Polygonum multiflorum (He Shou Wu) can be combined with Cornus officinalis (Shan Zhu Yu), but this should be done under the guidance of a qualified traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) practitioner. A detailed explanation is as follows:

　　

Polygonum multiflorum and Cornus officinalis are both commonly used tonic herbs in traditional Chinese medicine. Polygonum multiflorum primarily functions to nourish the liver and kidneys and benefit the essence and blood, whereas Cornus officinalis also nourishes the liver and kidneys but additionally has effects of astringency and consolidation. When used together, these two herbs can enhance their combined effects of nourishing the liver and kidneys and nourishing blood to calm the mind. This combination is suitable for symptoms such as deficiency of the liver and kidneys and insufficiency of essence and blood. Therefore, Polygonum multiflorum can be used together with Cornus officinalis.

When using Polygonum multiflorum and Cornus officinalis together, the dosage should be carefully controlled. It is recommended to consult a qualified TCM practitioner before use. Excessive intake within a short period may irritate the gastrointestinal tract and may also lead to symptoms of excessive internal heat. Additionally, if patients are currently taking other medications, especially Western medicines, caution should be exercised when combining Polygonum multiflorum with Cornus officinalis to avoid potential interactions that may affect drug efficacy or increase the risk of adverse reactions.

During the treatment period, it is important to maintain a light diet, such as consuming millet porridge or corn porridge, to avoid interfering with the effectiveness of the medication.

References

[1] Fu Qiongyi, Qi Yupu, Huan Yu, et al. Discussion on the Toxicity Characteristics of Polygonum multiflorum and Analysis of Rational Drug Use [J/OL]. Chinese Journal of Experimental Formulas, 1-12 [2025-03-22].

[2] Wang Jiajun, Wang Zeping, Wang Xuelian, et al. Research Progress on Chemical Constituents and Pharmacological Effects of Cornus officinalis. Chinese Herbal Medicines, 2025, 56(03): 1088-1103.

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