Polygonum Cuspidatum var. Japonicus is the species of plant most commonly referred to as Japanese Knotweed. This plant is an invasive species yet has been used traditionally in Chinese and Japanese medicine for its benefits on gastrointestinal health and circulatory health (among some other claims such as cancer prevention). Composition analysis of Japanese Knotweed reveals it to be a vessel for Resveratrol (as well as a few other compounds structurally similar to resveratrol and may act in the same way) and anthraquinone compounds that possess slight laxative effects; like Senna root but less potent.
Most of the effects of Japanese Knotweed can be traced back to either the stilbenes (resveratrol) or the anthraquinones (emodin) for the circulatory and gastrointestinal help, respectively.
Most research on Japanese Knotweed has been pertaining to either suppressing its invasive tendencies, or controlling it to become a large scale producer of Resveratrolfor medical or supplemental usage. Limited trials have been conducted in humans, but it appears to have similar effects to resveratrol due to the resveratrol content.
Japanese Knotweed is used for healing plenty of illnesses and diseases such as sore mouth and throat, cough, gingivitis and bronchitis. Moreover, it can be used to cure fluid retention, skin disorders and lung diseases. There are few people who used the Japanese Knotweed in order to decrease sweating which is linked with tuberculosis wherein it hinders bleeding.
Avoids heart diseases
Japanese Knotweed is known to have the capabilities to avoid cardiovascular diseases, hence a majority of the people can include Knotweed to their regular diets and avert cardiovascular challenges.
Research has mentioned that Japanese Knotweed has known to reduce blood pressure in animals since it is filled with anthraquinone wherein it dilates blood vessels.
Just like all the strong antioxidants, the plant has the capability to avoid cancer. Research even proves that Japanese Knotweed can support in healing colon cancer, breast cancer, prostate cancer and other types of cancer due to its antioxidant rating.
Research which is still being conducted recommends that a knotweed’s root extract is beneficial since it can be used as a mouth rinse in order to medicate gingivitis. Gingivitis (which is being developed due to the plaque) is formed by bacteria and saliva which accumulates on the gum line touching the teeth.
Detoxing the liver
Japanese Knotweed has been tested on animals in order to support the healing process of liver toxicity which is acute and liver diseases.
Antiviral and Antibacterial agents
Japanese Knotweed proves to be a vigorous antibacterial agent which aids in protecting the body against viral and bacterial invaders.
Since Japanese Knotweed holds in many vigorous antioxidants including resveratrol, it aids prevention and in few instances; these can even reverse accumulation neuronal plaque found in the brain.
Reduces blood sugar
Research shows Japanese Knotweed can even reduce blood sugar which makes it essential for those patients who endure and suffer from diabetes. Moreover, it helps in modulating blood sugar and enhances insulin sensitivity.
Research proves that Japanese Knotweed can even reduce cholesterol levels hence help in averting cardiovascular strokes and diseases.
Consuming knotweed in order to get rid of it
Since the plant weakens each and every time it is being cut, it is probably to keep note by continual harvesting; and at the very least – destroy it. In order to achieve a much greater chance of elimination, you would need to dig deep into the roots and burn on the site as well. After this, you would need to continue to harvest new shoots throughout the year.
If you want to add this plant to your child’s diet, you can read below on how to cook it. Moreover, it is certainly amazing to consume this plant since it is full of vitamin A and C wherein it also contains zinc, manganese, phosphorous, and potassium. People who have kidney stones or gout issues should be aware as the Japanese Knotweed does contain oxalic acid wherein it worsens both of these conditions.