Amphibious Bistort
Persicaria amphibia
Persicaria amphibia, commonly known as water smartweed, is a plant traditionally not associated with any specific medicinal practices. Scientific studies have identified 137 major low-molecular-weight organic compounds in various macrophyte species, including fatty acids, which are common components. While the American variant of Persicaria amphibia may warrant separate species status due to evidence of hybridization between two American elements, there is limited evidence regarding its specific medicinal uses across traditional practices. The plant has been found to accumulate varying levels of heavy metals such as cadmium (Cd), nickel (Ni), copper (Cu), and lead (Pb) under different conditions, suggesting potential environmental interactions but no direct medicinal applications have been scientifically validated. Safety concerns are currently non-existent, with no major issues recorded. There is also no evidence of significant drug interactions associated with this plant.
- Best evidence
- D
- Cautions
- —
Informational only. Traditional use does not mean proven effectiveness. Evidence and safety vary — check the cited sources.
What the science says
- The study identified 137 major low-molecular-weight organic compounds in 11 macrophyte species, with fatty acids being a common component.
- The study found that the American element of Persicaria amphibia may warrant species status distinct from the broader P. amphibia, with evidence of hybridization between two American elements.
- Persicaria amphibia accumulated varying amounts of Cd(II), Ni(II), Cu(II), and Pb(II) in its biomass under different conditions.
- The study found that genetic diversity among populations of Persicaria amphibia in South Korea is greater than within populations, with one population showing high differentiation.
Frequently asked questions
What is Amphibious Bistort?
Amphibious Bistort (Persicaria amphibia) is a plant documented in FolkKB's traditional-medicine reference, drawn from sourced literature and cross-checked against the evidence.
What does the scientific evidence say about Amphibious Bistort?
4 sourced findings are recorded for Amphibious Bistort; the strongest carries evidence grade D. For example: The study identified 137 major low-molecular-weight organic compounds in 11 macrophyte species, with fatty acids being a common component.
How strong is the evidence for Amphibious Bistort?
The strongest finding for Amphibious Bistort carries evidence grade D — preliminary or traditional. Grades run A (strongest) to D (preliminary or traditional).
Is Amphibious Bistort safe? What are the side effects?
No major safety issues are recorded for Amphibious Bistort in our sources, but the data may be incomplete. Consult a qualified professional before use.
Does Amphibious Bistort interact with medications?
No drug interactions are recorded for Amphibious Bistort in our sources. This does not rule them out — check with a pharmacist.
What are the common names of Amphibious Bistort?
Amphibious Bistort is also known as: Горец земноводный, Renouée amphibie.
Is Amphibious Bistort a proven treatment?
No. FolkKB is informational only. Traditional use and early findings are not proof of efficacy or safety — consult a qualified professional and never self-treat.
Sources
- T2 Evolutionary unraveling: new insights into the Persicaria amphibia complex. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Genetic diversity and structure of Persicaria amphibia (Polygonaceae) in South Korea using genotyping by sequencing. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Performance of Persicaria amphibia (L.) for Phytoremediation of Heavy Metals Contaminated Water. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Major Low-Molecular-Weight Metabolites from Freshwater Aquatic Macrophytes: Ecological Aspects. literature abstract metadata