A Chinese government official in the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644) known as Mayor Lin, was said to have fathered a baby girl at the age of 104. He was in the habit of taking Rehmannia. Said to be the "kidney"s own food, it is found in many anti-aging formulas. It is also considered a premium blood tonic. It has been shown to be effective in the treatment of both rheumatic and rheumatoid arthritis. Raw Rehmannia is clearing and is used to help rejuvenate over-worked kidneys. Steamed Rehmannia builds the blood and beautifies the skin.