What are the health benefits of Polygonatum?
A large amount of evidence has demonstrated that Polygonatum and its active ingre- dients have various pharmacological effects, such as antioxidant properties [12], anti-aging effects [13], immunomodulatory effects [14], antibacterial and anti-inflammatory activities [15, 16]. The plant contains flavonoids, anthraquinones, and stilbenes. Polygonum cuspidatum and the extracts have anti-inflammatory, antioxidation, anticancer, heart protection, and other pharmacological effects. It is used in the clinics to treat dizziness, headaches, traumatic injuries, and water and fire burns.
What is the common name for Polygonum cuspidatum?
Japanese knotweed is an herbaceous perennial that forms large colonies of erect, arching stems (resembling bamboo). Stems are round, smooth and hollow with reddish-brown blotches. Japanese knotweed contains high amounts of resveratrol and anti-inflammatory nutrients, which people have used to treat mobility, immunity, and circulatory system issues.Knotweed has been described as tasting like a lemony rhubarb and can be used to compliment a number of dishes. Japanese Knotweed is an excellent source of Vitamin A and Vitamin C and has also been known to prevent and treat cognitive disorders.Japanese knotweed can have a positive impact on blood flow by contributing to better vasodilation of the arteries. By modulating blood pressure, the reduction in strain and stress can thereby contribute to better cardiac health.Japanese knotweed contains resveratrol and other phytoestrogens and flavonoids [10]. Studies have shown that resveratrol binds to estrogen receptors in the human body, making it a substance that effectively influences women’s hormonal health [11].
Does Polygonum cuspidatum have anti-aging properties?
Polygonum Cuspidatum Extract, also known as Japanese Knotweed extract, is a potent botanical ingredient renowned for its high resveratrol content. This natural extract offers comprehensive benefits for skin and hair care, primarily focused on anti-aging, soothing, and protective properties. Despite its property-damaging tendencies, Japanese Knotweed is not harmful to humans. In rare cases, some individuals have reported mild skin irritation upon contact, but there is no documented evidence that it was Japanse knotweed that specifically caused the reaction.Japanese knotweed is an herb native to Asia that has been used in traditional Chinese Medicine to treat ailments such as inflammation, infection, jaundice, and more. Most of its potential benefits have yet to be proven by strong scientific evidence.Japanese knotweed contains resveratrol and apigenin. In vitro studies suggest these compounds have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-aging properties. Marketers claim these compounds support hair regrowth.Studies have indicated that Japanese Knotweed extract may contribute to cardiovascular health. The presence of resveratrol in the plant has been linked to maintaining healthy cholesterol levels, which is crucial for reducing the risk of heart disease.Is Japanese Knotweed dangerous for humans and animals? No, in fact in Asia, the plant is eaten in its young state, apparently tasting similar to a cross between rhubarb and asparagus. This is not recommended though.
What is resveratrol from Polygonum cuspidatum?
Resveratrol was first isolated from white hellebore (Veratrum grandiflorum O. Loes) roots in 1940, then from Polygonum cuspidatum roots in 1963, a plant used in traditional Chinese and Japanese Medicine as anti-inflammatory and anti-platelet agent. Roots contain the highest known concentration of resveratrol in plants—the same powerful antioxidant found in red grape skin and red wine. Mature shoots are much tougher and need to be peeled before eating and can be eaten raw, grilled, sautéed, pickled and more. Knotweed can also be used in pies.Polygonum cuspidatum is a good source of resveratrol, provided an efficient method of extraction is developed. The main difference between resveratrol extracted from Polygonum cuspidatum and resveratrol extracted from grapes is the composition of the extract.Perhaps the most renowned health benefit of Japanese knotweed is its positive effect on cognitive health. Resveratrol has been shown to have a preventative impact on neurodegenerative illnesses such as Alzheimer’s and dementia, making JKW a supremely beneficial plant for brain health.