He Shou Wu (Fo-Ti) Benefits + A DIY Hair Mask
He Shou Wu has been used for centuries in traditional Chinese medicine for its various health benefits, including promoting hair growth and strengthening hair follicles. We'll delve into the wonders of the He Shou Wu hair mask and explore how it can revitalize your hair.
The Legend of He Shou Wu
He Shou Wu, also known as Fo-Ti or Polygonum multiflorum, is a herb native to China. He Shou Wu translates to "The black hair of Mister He." The legend behind this nutrient-rich Wild Eastern Rose plant is this: there was a man who'd fallen incredibly ill; he'd lost his energy and began losing his hair.
He traveled into the forest to find healing and found a flowering vine with a woody tuber. He experienced a divine download, a vision from above.
From that vision, he decided to make tea from the root, and as he drank the tea, his hair, youthful vitality, and life force began to return. Since then, He Shou Wu has become a staple in Traditional Chinese Medicine.
Benefits of He Shou Wu
He Shou Wu offers several benefits that can transform your hair care routine:
Stimulates Hair Growth
He Shou Wu contains potent compounds that promote blood circulation to the scalp, delivering essential nutrients and oxygen to the hair follicles. This increased blood flow stimulates hair growth and encourages the growth of thicker, stronger strands.
Strengthens Hair
He Shou Wu penetrates the hair shaft, fortifying it from within and improving its elasticity. This makes the hair less prone to breakage, split ends, and other damage, resulting in stronger, healthier locks.
Restores Hair Color
He Shou Wu is known to return color to graying hair, and when taken orally - it's recommended to cook He Shou Wu with black beans - its flavor is earthy and slightly sweet - it's said to be a powerful anti-aging ingredient.
Nourishes and Hydrates
He Shou Wu deeply nourishes and hydrates the hair, replenishing moisture and combating dryness. It helps to restore shine, softness, and manageability to dull and damaged hair.
How to Make A He Shou Wu Hair Mask
There are many ways to work with the herb; we'll make a hair mask for our recipe. As we age and experience hormonal shifts, it's normal for our hair to feel brittle and lose its luster.
This mask will help with hydration and density. In addition, it can support revitalizing your mane if you're experiencing hair loss or greying. It's recommended to use the He Sho Wu Mask once a week.
In a small saucepan with 1/4 cup of water, blend a He Shou Wu powder tablespoon over medium heat. Continue to stir until the consistency of the He Shou Wu powder becomes a paste.
Next, add a teaspoon of bhringaraj oil* and a tablespoon of coconut oil. Once the ingredients are fully incorporated, transfer the recipe into a small bowl.
Gently massage the mask in a circular motion into the scalp for about 15 minutes and leave it in the hair for 30 minutes.
To finish the treatment, shampoo and condition your hair with a mild, natural cleanser and moisturizer.
*Bhringaraj oil hails from the sunflower family. It is used in Ayurvedic tradition to promote hair growth and retain hair color. The nutrients present in the oil facilitate blood flow to the hair follicles while nourishing the scalp.
A reduction in melanin production is a leading cause of gray hair. This mask can promote melanin production, lessening the loss of our natural hair color.
The Bottom Line
The He Shou Wu hair mask is a remarkable natural solution for achieving beautiful and revitalized hair. Its impressive array of benefits offers a holistic approach to hair care.
Incorporating this potent herb into your regular routine can nourish your hair from root to tip, experiencing thicker, fuller, and more vibrant locks. So embrace the power of He Shou Wu and witness the transformation as your hair becomes a reflection of health, vitality, and natural beauty.
