The answer to the second question posed in the headline above could very well be “yes.” In this article, we answer both of these questions by looking at Japanese Knotweed, and discussing its potential benefits to human health.
What is Japanese Knotweed?
Japanese Knotweed, or simply Knotweed, is an herb scientifically known as Polygonum cuspidatum. It is native to both Japan and China, and has a history of traditional medicinal use for a variety of ailments. The most potent natural substance in Japanese Knotweed is resveratrol, or to be more precise a form of it known as trans-resveratrol. It also contains healthy compounds called catechins.
Because of its content of resveratrol (and other polyphenols) and catechins, Japanese Knotweed is one of the most potent antioxidant herbs available in the marketplace.
Traditional eastern medicine used Knotweed to reduce inflammation (which contributes to a variety of ailments), jaundice, and hyperlipidemia (high lipid levels in the blood). Now, Japanese Knotweed is regarded for a variety of potential benefits.
Aside from its health applications, Japanese Knotweed is recognized for its tendency to over-flourish, singling it out as an invasive species. However, this does not detract from its uses to human health.
Potential Benefits of Japanese Knotweed
The benefits of Knotweed are primarily due to its provision of resveratrol. For this reason, a Japanese Knotweed supplement might be titled for its resveratrol content. Here is a look at the top benefits you could gain from supplementing with resveratrol sourced from Japanese Knotweed.
Reducing inflammation: Science has shown that Japanese Knotweed supplementation corresponded with a reduction in inflammation, specifically in the inflammation of certain immune cells. Other evidence suggests that Japanese Knotweed could reduce the inflammation leading to rheumatoid arthritis symptoms.
Lyme disease: Evidence suggests that Japanese Knotweed can also be taken to benefit those with Lyme disease.
Knotweed contains a compound called emodin, which works against the proliferation of Borellia burgdorferi (the bacteria causing Lyme disease). As a result, Japanese Knotweed could benefit those with Lyme by improving blood flow, supporting immune function, protecting heart function, and reducing autoimmune reactions.
Cognitive health could be supported by taking Japanese Knotweed. This is related to resveratrol’s effects in reducing oxidative stress and neuroinflammation. It could improve memory, learning, and neuromuscular coordination. Resveratrol in Knotweed could also improve blood flow in the brain.
Preventing heart disease: The resveratrol in Japanese Knotweed provides a cardioprotective effect that could reduce the risk of heart disease. This is especially the case for those with diabetes.
Easing digestion and gastrointestinal health is another benefit of resveratrol in this herb. Resveratrol can work as a laxative to ease digestion, and reduce stomach cramps and bloating.
The common cold, which has no true cure, could be prevented and its severity reduced by supplementing with Japanese Knotweed. This is because a certain enzyme it contains can reduce replication of the rhinovirus, which is the typical cause of the common cold.
The herb Japanese Knotweed has potent resveratrol content, and a list of potentially useful benefits to you. Whether it's reducing inflammation, preventing the common cold, or otherwise, consider Japanese Knotweed. As always, talk to your healthcare provider before taking a new supplement.