How often can I take Zhi Fu Zi?

Generally, dosage range for single herbs in Chinese medicine Materia Medicas refers to a daily dose.

However, Chinese herbs are almost always taken in a formula with multiple herbs interacting and influencing each other to create the desired therapeutic effect. It is quite rare that a practitioner would prescribe just a single herb. Fu zi seems to most often be dosed in the range of 3-9g in formulas (for example: in jin gui shen qi wan it is dosed at 3g. In zhen wu tang it is dosed at 9g), though I know of people who have experimented with higher doses.

Additionally, fu zi is known as “toxic.” It must be cooked longer than other herbs (30-60 minutes longer at least). There is controversy/discussion about how “toxic” fu zi is actually. Heiner Freuhaf, for example, is a strong proponent of using this herb for various maladies, in much higher doses than are typical, and claims that the traditional processing steps render it completely safe-but these processes are not typically utilized these days. Others disagree and are quite cautious in their dosing of fu zi.

I would advise against you experimenting with fu zi without the guidance of an experienced herbalist. Fu zi is a great herb but also a very hot and potent one, with much potential for unwanted side effects if used inappropriately; you would be best served by talking to a practitioner who can devise an appropriate formula for your health needs.

Fu zi is definitely the one of the hottest herbs.

I strongly encourage you to see a Chinese medicine practitioner in your area. If money is an issue, a lot of community acupuncture clinics (sliding scale fees) also prescribe patent herbal formulas. I think it’s great that you’re investigating ways to improve your health with herbs, but self-diagnosis (for anyone, practitioner or not), is kind of tricky-particularly with how specific and detailed Chinese medicine formulas are. Also, look into moxa-that is a warming therapy that is safe and easy to do on your own.

All this cautious talk aside: I’m sure you could cook up some fu zi and ginger and see how it treats you, though, really, a practitioner will be able to give you a more comprehensive and effective formula. (Apologies to Chad/yinyanghouse if you feel this suggestion is inappropriate/cavalier)

You could look into iodine/iodide supplementation. Yes, I would like to continue this old conversation, if it is okay with everyone here. Tk. you.