Chinese Knotweed (Polygonum multiflorum)

Chinese Knotweed (Polygonum multiflorum) is a member of the Polygonaceae family, native to China, Korea, and Japan. Traditionally, its roots, rhizomes, and stems have been used for decoctions, infusions, and powders.

This herb is particularly valued for its tonic, anti-inflammatory, and astringent actions, and has a long history of use in traditional chinese medicine, japanese kampo medicine, and korean traditional medicine.

Chinese Knotweed (Polygonum multiflorum) dried pieces of the herb arranged on a wooden table for reference — Chinese Knotweed (Polygonum multiflorum) dried pieces of the herb arranged together on a wooden table for reference, used in teas and remedies.

Quick Facts / Key Information

Common Name	Chinese Knotweed
Scientific Name	Polygonum multiflorum
Plant Family	Polygonaceae
Genus	Polygonum
Species	multiflorum
Native Range	China, Korea, Japan
Plant Parts Used	Roots, Rhizomes, Stems
Primary Medicinal Actions	Tonic, Anti-Inflammatory, Astringent
Primary Traditional Systems	Traditional Chinese Medicine, Japanese Kampo Medicine, Korean Traditional Medicine
Historical Preparation Methods	Decoction, Infusion, Powder

Botanical Identity

Scientific Name: Polygonum multiflorum
Common Name: Chinese Knotweed
Synonyms / Alternative Names: Polygonum Multiflorum, He Shou Wu, Japanese Knotweed
Plant Family: Polygonaceae
Genus: Polygonum

Botanical Description

Growth Habit: Perennial herbaceous plant.
Height: It typically reaches a height of 0.3 to 1.5 meters.
Leaves: Broad leaves with upper surface dark green and lower surface pale green, featuring prominent stomatal bands along the midrib.
Flowers: Flowers are arranged in dense clusters, exhibit actinomorphic symmetry, and have six tepals that are uniformly pink to reddish in color with no distinct markings
Stems: Climbing, with nodes bearing adventitious roots, stems are cylindrical, hollow, and have a smooth, glabrous surface with longitudinal ridges.

Traditional Uses / Historical Use

Traditional Systems

Traditional Chinese Medicine
Japanese Kampo Medicine
Korean Traditional Medicine
Ayurvedic Medicine

Historical Preparation Methods

Decoction
Infusion
Powder
Tincture

Medicinal Actions

Tonic: In herbal literature, noted as a calming tonic, in whole-system applications.
Anti-inflammatory: Traditionally described as a gentle anti-inflammatory, in tissue-soothing contexts.
Astringent: As described in traditional systems, a soothing astringent, in tissue-toning contexts.
Diuretic: In herbal texts, considered a warming diuretic, for moisture-related balance.

Active Compounds

Flavonoid: A chemical class commonly identified in plant tissues, especially flowers and leaves.
Tannin: A class of polyphenolic compounds commonly found in bark, leaves, and seeds.
Phenolic Acid: Organic acids commonly occurring as part of plant secondary metabolism.
Glycoside: A broad class of compounds composed of a sugar bound to a non-sugar component.

Modern Research Overview

This section is reserved for future summaries of scientific research related to this plant. As additional verified sources are reviewed, relevant study information will be added here.

Safety & Contraindications

General Precautions: The use of this herb may warrant general caution in certain situations.
Contraindications: Contraindications for this herb are not clearly established in available sources.
Allergies: There is insufficient evidence to determine whether this herb commonly causes allergic reactions.
Drug Interactions: Interactions between this herb and prescription medications are not clearly established.
Toxicity: Toxicity related to this herb has been documented in available sources.
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding: Use during pregnancy or breastfeeding has not been clearly established in available sources.

Preparation & Usage Methods

Infusion: A preparation method involving steeping plant material in heated water for a short period.
Decoction: A preparation method involving prolonged boiling of roots, bark, or dense plant material.
Poultice: Poultices involve external application of prepared plant matter.
Powder: This method converts dried plant material into a uniform powder.
Tincture: A preparation involving soaking plant parts in alcohol for extended extraction.

Growing, Harvesting & Storage

Growing / Cultivation

Soil: Prefers loamy soil with well-drained conditions. Typically grows best in organically rich soils.
Sunlight: Thrives in partial shade. Tolerates full sun to partial shade.
Watering: Prefers moist soils. Tolerates variable moisture levels.