Knotweed (Polygonum cuspidatum)
Synopsis of knotweed
Knotweed typically refers to various species of plants in the Polygonaceae family, most notably Japanese knotweed (Fallopia japonica). Native to East Asia, this invasive plant has spread across many parts of the world, including North America and Europe. While considered a troublesome weed due to its rapid growth and aggressive nature, knotweed, especially Japanese knotweed, has significant medicinal and nutritional uses, primarily due to its active compound, resveratrol—an antioxidant also found in grapes and red wine.
The root of Japanese knotweed contains high levels of resveratrol, polydatin, emodin, and quercetin, which contribute to its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties. These compounds make knotweed particularly beneficial for supporting cardiovascular health, managing inflammation, and detoxifying the body.
In traditional medicine, knotweed is used to support liver health, digestive function, and immune system modulation. It has also been studied for its potential to reduce symptoms of chronic conditions like arthritis and cardiovascular disease, thanks to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects.
Historical Use
In traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), knotweed, especially the root of Japanese knotweed, has been used for centuries to treat a variety of ailments. The herb is known as Hu Zhang and was traditionally used to cool the blood, clear heat, and support the liver and digestive system. Knotweed is often included in formulas for gout, hepatitis, and skin disorders due to its anti-inflammatory and detoxifying effects.
In Western herbalism, knotweed gained attention more recently for its cardiovascular and antioxidant benefits, particularly because of its resveratrol content. Japanese knotweed is now commonly found in supplements aimed at inflammation relief, immune support, and skin health.
While knotweed is widely used for its medicinal benefits, it is also considered an invasive species in many areas, including the United States, where it is notorious for causing damage to natural habitats and infrastructure due to its vigorous growth. Despite this, its medicinal potential has led to efforts to cultivate it for controlled harvesting.
Today, knotweed continues to be a key herb in anti-aging, immune-modulating, and cardiovascular health formulas, with increasing research into its potential role in chronic disease prevention and longevity.
Knotweed is used for these health conditions
Arthritis (Traditional)
Cancer (natural therapy for) (Traditional)
Cancer (prevention) (Traditional)
Cancer Treatment (reducing side effects) (Scientific)
Cholesterol (high) (Scientific)
Circulation (poor) (Traditional)
Colds (antiviral) (Scientific)
Diabetes (Scientific)
Fatigue (Traditional)
Gall Stones (Traditional)
Gout (Traditional)
Heart (weakness) (Traditional)
Hepatitis (Traditional)
Inflammation (Scientific)
Liver Detoxification (Traditional)
Menopause (Traditional)
Osteoporosis (Scientific)
Psoriasis (Traditional)
Skin (infections) (Traditional)
Triglycerides (high) (Scientific)
Ulcers (Traditional)
Urinary Tract Infections (Traditional)
Wounds and Sores (Traditional)
knotweed is used to support these body systems
Arteries (Traditional)
Blood (Traditional)
Brain (Traditional)
Circulatory System (Scientific)
Digestive System (Traditional)
Gastrointestinal Tract (Traditional)
Heart (Traditional)
Immune System (Scientific)
Intestinal System (Traditional)
Joints (Traditional)
Liver (Traditional)
Lungs (Traditional)
Mitochondria (Scientific)
Skin (Traditional)
Spleen (Traditional)
Urinary System (Traditional)
Additional Help
Talk with Dr. Shannyn
Get to the root of what’s really going on.
Symptoms like fatigue, bloating, skin issues, or mood changes often point to deeper imbalances. Our at-home lab tests make it easy to investigate hormone health, gut function, food sensitivities, and more—no clinic visit required.
Schedule a Free Consult →
Personalized support. No pressure. No cost.
At-Home Lab Testing
Want to know if your body really needs this ingredient?
Explore our at-home lab tests—from hormone and gut panels to toxin screenings. These simple kits give you data to back your decisions, and pair perfectly with natural ingredient guidance.
Explore Lab Testing →
Results interpreted with expert support. No clinic visit required.