What Is Japanese Knotweed Extract?
Posted by Scott Griffeth onJapanese Knotweed extract is a flowering herb that has been used for centuries in Asian countries. It’s native primarily to China, Korea, and, as the name might suggest, Japan. The uses of this herb are varied. It’s used for everything from culinary dishes to ceremonies to medicinal purposes. One of the major chemicals in Japanese Knotweed that makes it popular for healing purposes is its high levels of resveratrol, an ingredient that is also found in:
- Red wine
- Grapes
- Berries
- Nuts
For Japanese Knotweed, the highest concentration of resveratrol is found in its roots. While the effects of this herb are still being studied, here are a few conditions it may help with.
How Is Japanese Knotweed Extract Used?
Cognitive Function: One of the more commonly known uses for this herb, most likely for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, is its use in improving cognitive function. Resveratrol has shown promising results in preventing degeneration of neural pathways in conditions like Alzheimer’s disease. It has also been discovered resveratrol disrupts beta-amyloids, which are responsible for Alzheimer’s.
Cardiovascular Health: Red wine is often highlighted as healthy for your heart. This is due to the presence of resveratrol. Knotweed’s high resveratrol levels also make it a candidate for heart disease prevention since it can increase circulation and has been shown to reduce the effects of enzymes that control cholesterol production, helping to lower cholesterol levels and prevent heart disease.
Lower Blood Pressure: Trials using resveratrol were conducted and determined that high doses of resveratrol reduced pressure on artery walls. Our arterial walls stiffen as we age, leading to an increase in blood pressure. Resveratrol helps relax blood vessels and arteries reducing blood pressure in a safe and healthy way. It is suspected that the part of resveratrol that reduces that pressure is nitric oxide.