Acute hepatitis induced by Shou-Wu-Pian, a herbal product derived from Polygonum multiflorum

Herbal preparations are widely available and generally regarded by the publ ic as harmless remedies for a variety of medical ailments. We report the fi rst case in Australia of acute hepatitis associated with the Chinese herbal medicine Shou-Wu-Pian, prepared from Polygonum multiflorum. Cholestatic he patitis developed in a Chinese woman taking this preparation for the greyin g of her hair, and liver biopsy was consistent with a toxic reaction. Clini cal and biochemical resolution occurred following cessation of the drug. (C ) 2001 Blackwell Science Asia Pry Ltd.