Keep out of the reach of children. He shou wu is considered to be a very mild and safe herb. Mild gastrointestinal disturbance, characterized by soft stool, is the only side effect associated with polygonum multiflorum. However, moderate doses of processed he shou wu rarely result in such an effect. Should this occur, the herb may be combined with certain other herbs, and the problem can be eliminated. Consult your herbalist. Again, this side effect is rare