Knotweed, also known as matweed, wiregrass and doorweed, is a hardy weed that is native to Europe and Japan. Resveratrol is an antioxidant that is commonly found in red wine. Resveratrol has a number of health benefits and has been connected to knotweed.
Knotweed
Japanese knotweed, though originating from Japan, was introduced to the United States in the 1940s and is now well established throughout the United States and Canada. It is a very hardy perennial and is commonly seen beside walkways and footpaths. It is also often seen invading orchards, gardens field crops and turf. It develops a tap root early into the growing season, enabling it to survive summer droughts.
Resveratrol
Resveratrol is found in the skins of grapes used in wine making. For this reason wine contains resveratrol, though red wine has a higher concentration due to the fact that red grapes are fermented longer during the wine making process. Resveratrol is also found in peanuts cranberries and blueberries.
Resveratrol Possible Benefits
According to MayoClinic.com, research has shown that resveratrol may be beneficial for lowering cholesterol, reducing inflammation, as well as protecting the body form diabetes and obesity. MayoClinic.com does warn however, that most of the studies were conducted on mice rather than human beings.
Active Ingredients in Knotweed
According to the Naturopathic Digest, Knotweed contains active ingredients including salicylic acid, quercetin, lysine and several sugars. Quercetin has antioxidant and antihistamine properties, salicylic acid is similar to aspirin and lysine is an essential amino acids. In Chinese medicine, it is frequently used to treat parasites, skin disorders and to stem bleeding.
Knotweed and Resveratrol
These days, many herbal supplement manufacturers market knotweed supplements as a significant source of resveratrol. However, there are currently no scientific studies available that confirm this claim. You should consult your physician before using a knotweed supplement as it may have contraindications with some prescription medicines. You should not take knotweed if you suffer from deficiencies of the stomach or spleen.
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