Resveratrol extract 50% | Polygonum cuspidatum

Resveratrol extract 50% | Polygonum cuspidatum

Properties: Japanese knotweed is one of these plants that for years have attracted many natural therapy enthusiasts. This popularity is mainly due to the healthy properties of Polygonum cuspidatum. They have been already noticed in ancient Asia, where people consumed this plant to improve their overall condition. The rhizome of Japanese knotweed has been considered a remedy to a plethora of diseases and ailments. That is why this plant has entered the traditional systems of natural medicine in China and Japan – and remained there for good. What precisely have Asians found so noteworthy?

Among multiple active compounds found in this plant, resveratrol definitely is the alpha dog. Japanese knotweed has such a good effect on the general health mostly due to its properties. And the effect is indeed significant. Resveratrol successfully supports both cardiovascular and immune systems. It supports the prevention of diseases related to circulatory disorders (e.g. atherosclerosis), as it contributes to the reduction of cholesterol levels. What is more, it has antiviral, antibacterial, and even anti-inflammatory properties. Simultaneously, it strengthens the natural defense mechanisms of the organism, which is why the immune reaction becomes more effective. 

The protective effect of resveratrol also covers the nervous system. This compound improves the blood flow and thus allows better oxygenation of the brain. It needs no explanation that the more blood reaches this key organ the better. Therefore, resveratrol helps to provide the brain with nutrients essential to its proper functioning. What is more, it cleanses the nervous system from redundant or even malicious substances such as protein beta-amyloid. In this way, it prevents multiple diseases of neurons and glia. Thus, by supplementing resveratrol, we can take care of our minds and ensure their optimal health.   

The intuition of Asian scholars was absolutely correct. Thanks to modern research programs, properties of Japanese knotweed are being continuously discovered and their beneficial impact on human health gains scientific evidence. After all, this is one of the most thoroughly studied plants in natural medicine. Thus, we do not need to rely on ancient legends and folk knowledge, but can also count on the work of modern scientists.

Occurrence: Resveratrol is a biologically active compound found in Japanese knotweed (Polygonum cuspidatum). This perennial plant belongs to the Polygonaceae family. It is native to Eastern Asia, where it grows in the mountains, on the hills, roadsides, and the edges of the ditches. It has woody shoots, it is hollow inside and quite similar to bamboo. Its rhizome is the main raw herbal material. Importantly, it must be collected from unpolluted areas, because it has the ability to accumulate heavy metals. 

In traditional medicine of China and Japan (Kampo) the rhizome of Japanese knotweed has been used for millennia, mostly as a remedy to various infections (bacterial, fungal, as well as viral), joint aches, and to support the therapy of cardiovascular diseases. This plant was described in the famous pharmacopoeia of Traditional Chinese Medicine – the scripture “Ben Cao Gang Mu” by herbalist Li Shizhen. This monumental book was written during the Ming dynasty (1578) and is considered the most complete textbook of Traditional Chinese Medicine. Nowadays, the rhizome and young leaves of Japanese knotweed are registered in the Chinese Pharmacopoeia (1999) and used as medical substrates. The rhizome is used as an analgesic, antipyretic, diuretic and expectorant.

Biochemistry: Japanese knotweed contains plenty of biologically active compounds that can be classified into four groups: anthraquinones, stilbenes, flavonoids, lignans and phenolic compounds. Resveratrol is the main substance to which this plant owes its properties. Chemically speaking, it is an organic compound classified as stilbene (because it is a polyphenol derivative of stilbene). After ingestion, it is well absorbed in the small intestine. In the organism, it has a positive effect on the cardiovascular system (it can be considered cardioprotective, because it prevents the aggregation of blood). Moreover, it regulates the lipids level and strengthens immunity. The resveratrol molecules can form one of two structures: cis- or trans-. The latter is more common in nature and exhibits stronger biological activity.

Fun fact: Young stems of Japanese knotweed are edible spring vegetables that taste quite similar to rhubarb. For example, in Japan they are called “itadori” and considered “sansai” – literally “mountain vegetables”. They are often an ingredient of Buddhist cuisine, practiced by monks and many believers in areas that have historically been influenced by Chinese Buddhism.