Japanese Knotweed Extract
Japanese Knotweed (Reynoutria japonica) is a fascinating plant in many ways. In Japan, where it is native, the young stalks are used as a delicacy in the spring and known by many different names. In recent years it has been discovered to one of the best natural sources of the potent antioxidant resveratrol (found in grape skins, and the primary reason red wine is considered healthy in moderation). But not only does it contain the coveted resveratrol molecule in higher concentration than in any other plant, it has the trans isomer of this molecule, which is more biologically available and active. (Many plants only contain cis-resveratrol, which is less bioactive)
Trans-resveratrol's primary physiological action was originally thought to be as a straight-forward antioxidant, but recent studies have shown that it's powerful benefits may be due to a more direct action on the Nrf2 pathway. This gets pretty esoteric pretty quickly, but, in a nutshell, triggering the activation of this pathway in our bodies causes a cascade of beneficial effects on a genetic and cellular level. In effect, we may see results in a wide range of physiological and metabolic processes including mediating diabetes (anti-diabetic), heart disease (cardio-protective), liver disease (hepatoprotective), as well as anti-inflammatory, and anti-carcinogenic benefits. All of these actions are supported by recent science, and by traditional medicine.
The ecology and ethnobotany of Japanese Knotweed are a little complicated too. Although it is well-loved as a seasonal delicacy in East Asia, it has been loathed and feared in many other parts of the world for its invasive nature. It can quickly spread after introduction to a new habitat, and can form thick mats of roots that outcompete native flora. It's often listed as one of the world's most invasive plants. Yet, if we look at this plant through the lens of the philosophy that the global ecosystem as a whole (Gaia) is attempting to alert and awaken her most problematic children (humans) to the myriad wonders and healing powers of the natural world, then we can see the intense invasiveness of this plant as a light meant to guide us back to the right path. In short, Mother Gaia may be using this powerful plant to get our attention.
We came across a small stand of Japanese Knotweed growing in a pristine riparian area we frequent, and we feel we've struck a good balance between harvesting some of the roots for medicine, keeping this small population somewhat in check, but also allowing it to exist and find its place in our changing environment.
We consciously limit the exposure of our extract to damaging ultraviolet light in all stages of production and storage, and it is offered only in amber-colored glass bottles which limit UV damage significantly.
Contains: Wild Japanese Knotweed (Reynoutria japonica, syn. Polygonum cuspidatum, Fallopia japonica), wild Oregon spring water, 40% organic cane sugar alcohol
This extract, like all OsoMoya extracts, is handled and processed with extreme care and thoughtfulness at all times. It is made with certified organic alcohol derived from sugarcane, and wild Oregon spring water. Wild plants were harvested ethically and sustainably to ensure that the stand is not diminished or altered in any unnatural way, and only the best materials were selected to be tinctured. Always kept far from harmful chemicals, toxins, and BPA. Contains 40% organic cane alcohol by volume, and wild Oregon spring water.Sustainably harvested from the Willamette Valley of Western Oregon. As usual, we make our extracts especially concentrated and potent.
