Discover a Potent Natural Wonder: Polygonum Cuspidatum Root Extract

Polygonum cuspidatum is, in a word, tenacious. Native to Japan and China, it has been transported around the world and thrives just about anywhere. After planting it, its rhizome (root) spreads and expands at a rapid rate, pushing out surrounding flora. Perhaps it’s nature’s way of getting us to notice this extraordinary plant. 

More commonly known as Japanese knotweed or Mexican bamboo, Polygonum cuspidatum grows from 3-8 feet tall and has sturdy bamboo-like stems. It sports wide, vibrant green leaves and small, delicate white blooms with a pleasant scent that bees (and people) love. But there is so much more to this herbaceous perennial than what meets the eye. Japanese knotweed root extract is one of the best natural sources of resveratrol, a powerful antioxidant. Let’s dive into more fascinating facts about the history, benefits, and uses of Polygonum cuspidatum root extract and some of the many ways it can help fight inflammaging. 

The History of Japanese Knotweed

Polygonum cuspidatum has had a place in traditional Chinese medicine for thousands of years. Known as hu zhang in Chinese, the plant was used to treat all sorts of ailments including jaundice and poor blood circulation, just to mention two. 
In more modern history, Japanese knotweed was transported to Great Britain, but not for its medicinal properties. Rather, the Brits thought it would make a nice addition to ornamental gardens. From there, the plant made its way to Canada, New Zealand, and the US. These days, in the eyes of horticulturists, it's considered an invasive pest. Researchers, on the other hand, have taken a real interest in Polygonum cuspidatum, particularly for what can be achieved with its highly beneficial root extract. 

Polygonum Cuspidatum Root Extract Benefits

Polygonum cuspidatum root extract contains a powerful polyphenolic antioxidant called trans-reservatol. This antioxidant is considered the most bioavailable form of resveratrol, meaning it can be readily absorbed and utilized by the body. That’s what makes Japanese knotweed root extract one of the best natural sources of resveratrol available today.

Researchers have explored its anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and antimycotic, and antiviral properties. Studies show that Japanese knotweed root extract is a potent antimicrobial agent that can provide activity against a whole host of bacteria, fungi, protozoa, and viruses. But that’s not all it can do. Scientists are also looking at the herb’s possible benefits for heart health and brain health. 

Clearly, Polygonum cuspidatum root extract can benefit a body from the inside out, but the benefits of applying it topically shouldn’t be overlooked either.

Japanese Knotweed Root Extract in Skincare

Because it is a source of trans-resveratrol, Polygonum cuspidatum root extract is an obvious choice for skincare products. Studies show that resveratrol has a positive effect on wound healing, skin regeneration, and photoaging. 

How does it work? Resveratrol helps protect the skin against type B ultraviolet radiation, which is a huge contributor to skin aging. It also helps the body to produce collagen, which is critical since collagen production tends to slow as we age, contributing to fine lines, wrinkles, and sagging skin. In addition, it can speed the skin’s healing process - a benefit for anyone with acne-prone skin. But wait, there’s more! Researchers have also found that certain chemical compounds found in Polygonum cuspidatum, namely piceid, can be effective at fading hyperpigmentation, making it a safe skin-lightening agent. 

How to Incorporate Polygonum Cuspidatum Root Extract into Your Skincare Routine

With so many benefits, utilizing Japanese knotweed root extract as a part of your skincare routine is an obvious choice. It’s the reason we’ve incorporated it in the Solvasa DeStressance Serum. Utilize it to keep your skin from succumbing to the dulling and aging effects of a hectic lifestyle. Simply dispense 1-2 pumps of the DeStressance Serum onto your fingertips and apply generously to your cleansed face and neck area. Take a deep breath, and feel your stress melt away. 

Besides Japanese knotweed root extract, the serum contains a variety of other natural ingredients that aid in diminishing the visible signs of skin aging, including fine lines, wrinkles and dullness, boosting your skin’s natural radiance, and supporting your skin’s ability to overcome stress and inflammaging. Ingredients include a lavender-based triglyceride complex, adaptogenic ashwagandha, chaga mushroom, as well as birch bark, spearmint, and Indian frankincense extracts, just to mention a few.

If you believe in the power of natural ingredients and science-backed skincare products, why not become a Solvasa Pro? When you join our community, you become empowered to share integrative beauty products and practices with others for an anti-inflammatory lifestyle that unlocks a person’s natural radiance! 

Conclusion

Polygonum cuspidatum, a.k.a. Japanese knotweed, root extract is a true power player in the world of natural ingredients. Not only does it hold the potential to benefit our bodies with powerful anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial agents, it is also a key source of one of skincare’s favorite ingredients: resveratrol. Incorporate it into your daily beauty regimen to enjoy a smooth and more radiant complexion.