What Is Polygonum cuspidatum Extract?

Polygonum cuspidatum extract is a dietary supplement derived from the Japanese knotweed. It contains the chemical resveratrol. It has many health benefits; for example, it strengthens the immune system and has antibacterial properties.

Polygonum cuspidatum

• Polygonum cuspidatum, or Japanese knotweed, is an invasive flowering plant. Polygonum cuspidatum is used to produce resveratrol supplements because it is easy and quick to grow.

Extract

• An extract of Polygonum cuspidatum can be taken as a dietary supplement. It is usually made from the roots of the plant.

Cholesterol Control

• The scientific community believes that Polygonum cuspidatum extract can minimize high cholesterol levels in humans, thereby reducing the risks of heart attack and thrombosis. According to MDidea.com, “high consumption of resveratrol-rich foods may result in reduced cardiovascular disease risk, lowered total cholesterol, and lowered LDL cholesterol.”

Antioxidant Effect

• Resveratrol is an antioxidant. Antioxidants prevent damage to the cells by free radicals, although there is no scientific evidence to support the idea that resveratrol will be able to protect the body after it is taken as a supplement. Resveratrol is believed to help prevent cardiovascular disease and cancer. According to MDidea.com, “In humans, studies are underway to determine health benefits of resveratrol in cancer and heart disease. Preliminary research results demonstrate that resveratrol may have anti-infective, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties.”

Other Sources

• Red grapes and a number of other plants also contain resveratrol.