Cuspidatum root (Polygonum cuspidatum)
Synopsis of cuspidatum root
Cuspidatum root refers to the root of Polygonum cuspidatum, also known as Japanese knotweed. This perennial plant, native to East Asia, is rich in a wide range of medicinal compounds, most notably resveratrol, a polyphenol with strong antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and cardioprotective properties. Japanese knotweed is one of the most concentrated botanical sources of resveratrol, often used as a more sustainable alternative to grape-derived resveratrol in supplements.
In herbal medicine, cuspidatum root is used to:
- Support cardiovascular health, including reducing oxidative stress, improving blood vessel flexibility, and lowering LDL oxidation
- Reduce systemic inflammation, particularly in chronic or autoimmune conditions
- Protect against cognitive decline and neurodegeneration
- Support liver detoxification and metabolic balance
- Enhance immune modulation, with potential antimicrobial and antiviral activity
- Act as a source of emodin, a compound that has laxative, antifungal, and anti-cancer properties
Cuspidatum root also shows biofilm-disrupting activity, which makes it useful in integrative protocols for Lyme disease and chronic infections, especially when addressing microbial persistence or antibiotic resistance. It is commonly used in capsules, tinctures, or standardized extracts, often alongside other immune or vascular herbs.
Historical Use
In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), Polygonum cuspidatum is known as Hu Zhang and has been used for centuries as a blood-invigorating, heat-clearing, and detoxifying herb. It is traditionally prescribed for:
- Trauma and bruising
- Infections and abscesses
- Menstrual irregularities and blood stagnation
- Liver inflammation and jaundice
- Respiratory conditions involving phlegm and cough
TCM considers Hu Zhang to be bitter and slightly cold, entering the liver, gallbladder, and lung meridians. It is often used to disperse blood stasis, eliminate toxins, and resolve damp-heat, particularly in liver and skin disorders.
In Japanese herbal medicine (Kampo), knotweed preparations were used to stimulate circulation and treat infections. Its use in folk remedies throughout Korea and China also included treatment of snake bites, burns, skin ulcers, and fevers.
With the isolation of resveratrol in the late 20th century, Polygonum cuspidatum gained recognition in Western integrative and functional medicine, especially for cardiovascular and anti-aging support. Today, it is a key herb in mitochondrial, immune, and inflammatory response protocols, as well as in chronic infection management, especially within Lyme disease herbal protocols popularized by Stephen Buhner and others.
Cuspidatum root is used for these health conditions
Cancer (natural therapy for) (Scientific)
Cancer Treatment (reducing side effects) (Traditional)
Infection (Scientific)
Infection (bacterial) (Scientific)
Infection (viral) (Scientific)
Inflammation (Scientific)
Liver Detoxification (Traditional)
Ulcers (Traditional)
cuspidatum root is used to support these body systems
Blood (Traditional)
Circulatory System (Scientific)
Digestive System (Traditional)
Gastrointestinal Tract (Traditional)
Heart (Traditional)
Immune System (Traditional)
Joints (Traditional)
Liver (Traditional)
Skin (Traditional)
