Hu Zhang (Polygonum cuspidatum), also known as Japanese Knotweed, is a powerful medicinal herb used in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and modern herbal therapy. This resilient plant is renowned for its high resveratrol content, potent antioxidant properties, and wide-ranging health benefits.
This comprehensive guide will explore Hu Zhang’s medicinal properties, traditional uses, scientific research, and potential applications in herbal medicine and wellness.
Hu Zhang, a member of the Polygonaceae family, is a hardy, fast-growing perennial plant native to East Asia. While it is often regarded as an invasive species in some regions, its medicinal applications make it an invaluable herb in natural medicine.
Key Health Benefits of Hu Zhang
1. Rich in Resveratrol – A Potent Antioxidant
Hu Zhang is one of the most concentrated sources of resveratrol, a polyphenol known for its anti-aging, heart-protective, and neuroprotective effects. It surpasses grapes and red wine in resveratrol content, making it a popular natural supplement.
Enhances blood circulation and reduces plaque buildup in arteries.
Helps lower LDL (bad) cholesterol and increase HDL (good) cholesterol.
Provides anti-inflammatory effects that reduce heart disease risk.
Inhibits COX-2 enzymes, reducing inflammation in conditions like arthritis and joint pain.
Supports muscle recovery and reduces swelling after injury.
Inhibits bacterial infections (including Lyme disease-causing Borrelia burgdorferi).
Effective against fungal infections such as Candida albicans.
Potential use for viral infections due to immune-boosting properties.
Enhances liver function and promotes detoxification.
Improves digestion by stimulating bile flow.
Provides relief from constipation and gut inflammation.
Protects against Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases.
Improves memory, learning, and cognitive function by reducing oxidative stress.
Enhances blood flow to the brain, supporting mental clarity.
Hu Zhang can be consumed in various forms, depending on the desired health benefits.
Best for antioxidant, cardiovascular, and anti-inflammatory benefits.
Standard dosage: 30–60 drops (1-2 mL) 2-3 times daily. (consult a practitioner for personalized recommendations).
Convenient for daily supplementation.
Dosage: 500–1000 mg per day (consult a practitioner for personalized recommendations).
Traditional method for digestive health and detoxification.
Recipe: Simmer 5-10 grams of dried root in 2 cups of water for 15-20 minutes. (consult a practitioner for personalized recommendations).
Used for wound healing, skin infections, and inflammation relief.
| Health Benefit | Why It Works |
|---|---|
| Cardiovascular Health | Resveratrol improves blood circulation, reduces LDL cholesterol, and enhances nitric oxide production. |
| Anti-Inflammatory & Pain Relief | Inhibits COX-2 enzymes, reducing inflammation; supports joint and muscle recovery. |
| Antiviral, Antibacterial, Antifungal | Contains emodin and resveratrol, which inhibit bacterial, fungal, and viral infections. |
| Liver Detoxification & Digestive Health | Stimulates bile production, enhances liver detoxification, and reduces gut inflammation. |
| Neuroprotection & Cognitive Function | Crosses the blood-brain barrier to reduce oxidative stress, supporting memory and mental clarity. |
| Lyme Disease Support | Emodin and resveratrol inhibit Borrelia burgdorferi, reduce inflammation, and support immune response. |
In TCM, Hu Zhang is classified as a bitter, slightly cold herb that targets the liver, gallbladder, and lung meridians. It is commonly used for:
✅ Clearing heat and toxins from the body
✅ Promoting blood circulation and resolving blood stasis
✅ Treating infections, including abscesses and skin disorders
✅ Relieving menstrual pain and irregular cycles
A study published in the Journal of Nutritional Biochemistry found that resveratrol from Hu Zhang enhances blood vessel function and reduces heart disease risk by improving nitric oxide production and reducing oxidative stress.
According to research from Johns Hopkins University, Hu Zhang exhibits strong antimicrobial effects against Borrelia burgdorferi, the bacteria responsible for Lyme disease. Studies suggest that its compounds, particularly resveratrol and emodin, help inhibit the growth and replication of Lyme-causing bacteria, potentially making it an effective natural adjunct to Lyme treatment.
Some herbalists and Lyme disease specialists recommend Hu Zhang as part of Stephen Buhner’s herbal protocol for Lyme disease due to its ability to:
Reduce inflammation caused by the infection.
Support immune function.
Cross the blood-brain barrier to help with neurological Lyme symptoms.
Act as an antimicrobial agent to weaken the bacteria.
For those considering Hu Zhang for Lyme disease, it is essential to consult with a healthcare provider to determine the best dosage and combination with other supportive herbs.
While Hu Zhang is generally safe, it may interact with certain medications and conditions:
Not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women.
May interact with blood thinners (e.g., warfarin), potentially increasing bleeding risk.
Can cause mild digestive issues in sensitive individuals (e.g., diarrhea, nausea).
Always consult a healthcare provider before starting any herbal supplement.
When purchasing Hu Zhang, look for:
Organic and wildcrafted sources to avoid pesticide contamination.
Third-party lab testing for purity and safety.
Nuherbs Lab Tested
Nuherbs Organic Herbs
Plum Flower Herbs
Common Name: Japanese Knotweed, Bushy Knotweed, Japanese Bushy Knotweed, Tiger's Cane
Botanical Name: Polygonum Cuspidatum Rhizoma
Chinese / Pin Yin Name: Hu Zhang
Polygonum Cuspidatum Dosage: Consult your healthcare provider for your correct dose.
Polygonum Cuspidatum Precautions: Do not use if pregnant or nursing. Do not use in large doses.
Polygonum Cuspidatum is a traditional Chinese medicianl herb to rid dampness, remove jaundice, clear heat, remove toxicity, resloves blood stasis, inhibit pain, resloves phlegm an ease cough. Polygonum Cuspidatum supports normal liver function, promotes the body's natural ability to remove toxins, benefits joint function, supports circulatory health, promotes cognitive function, boosts immune system, benefits digestive system, promotes healthy joint function and benefits urinary health. It has antibiotic, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, astringent and antifungal effects.
Polygonum Cuspidatum Properties: Cold, Slightly Bitter, Neutral, Sightly Toxic
Polygonum Cuspidatum Channels / Meridians: Liver, Spleen, Gallbladder, Lung
Polygonum Cuspidatum Naturally Occurring Components: Resveratrol, Emodin, Physcion, Chrysophanol, Anthraglycoside A, Anthraglycoside B, Emodin-8-O-β-D-glucoside, Fallacinol, Citreorosein, Questin, Questinol
Andrographis Da Huang Huang Qin Dan Shen Dang Gui Jin Qian Cao
References:
https://tcmwiki.com/wiki/hu-zhang,
http://alternativehealing.org/hu_zhang.htm,
https://herbpathy.com/Uses-and-Benefits-of-Hu-Zhang-Cid3279,
https://www.americandragon.com/Individualherbsupdate/HuZhang.html
Stephen Buhner "Healing Lyme Disease"
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