Chinese knotweed
Persicaria chinensis
Persicaria chinensis is a plant traditionally not known for medicinal uses. Scientific studies have shown that oxalic acid from this plant can effectively repel pillbugs, and tannins identified through LC-ECD screening exhibit significant antioxidant activity. The leaf polyphenol content peaks in June, while stem growth increases over the cultivation period. Research also indicates that distinct miR319a from Persicaria chinensis targets ITGA3, leading to reduced viability and apoptosis in HeLa cervical cancer cells, suggesting potential anti-cancer properties. No major safety concerns or recorded drug interactions have been identified for 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
- Oxalic acid from Persicaria chinensis was identified as an effective repellent against pillbugs.
- LC-ECD screening identified tannins as major contributors to antioxidant activity in Persicaria chinensis.
- Leaf polyphenol content peaked in June, while stem growth increased throughout the cultivation period.
- Distinct miR319a from Persicaria chinensis targets ITGA3, reducing viability and inducing apoptosis in HeLa cervical cancer cells.
Frequently asked questions
What is Chinese knotweed?
Chinese knotweed (Persicaria chinensis) 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 Chinese knotweed?
4 sourced findings are recorded for Chinese knotweed; the strongest carries evidence grade D. For example: Oxalic acid from Persicaria chinensis was identified as an effective repellent against pillbugs.
How strong is the evidence for Chinese knotweed?
The strongest finding for Chinese knotweed carries evidence grade D — preliminary or traditional. Grades run A (strongest) to D (preliminary or traditional).
Is Chinese knotweed safe? What are the side effects?
No major safety issues are recorded for Chinese knotweed in our sources, but the data may be incomplete. Consult a qualified professional before use.
Does Chinese knotweed interact with medications?
No drug interactions are recorded for Chinese knotweed in our sources. This does not rule them out — check with a pharmacist.
What are the common names of Chinese knotweed?
Chinese knotweed is also known as: Persicaire de Chine, Liane rouge, Empreinte-la-vierge.
Is Chinese knotweed 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 Screening, fingerprinting, and identification of phenolic antioxidants in Persicaria chinensis (L.) H. Gross by liquid chromatography - electrochemical detection and liquid chromatography - tandem mass spectrometry. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Identification of oxalic acid from Persicaria chinensis as a repellent against isopods. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Changes in Growth and Polyphenol Content of the Rare Plant Persicaria chinensis Cultivated in a Greenhouse During the Growth Period. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Distinct miR319a identified from Persicaria chinensis mediates cross-kingdom suppression of cervical cancer by targeting ITGA3. literature abstract metadata