The efficacy and function of Polygonum convolutum

Polygonum convolvulus is something that many people are very familiar with. The benefits that Polygonum convolvulus brings to us are not available in other foods. So what are the effects of Polygonum convolvulus? Let’s find out together.

[Other names] Iron head, buckwheat kudzu

[Source] Medicinal material source: the whole herb of Polygonum convolvulus of the Polygonaceae family.

[Original form] Annual herb, 20-100cm long. Stems twining, slender, with indistinct striations, rough or sparsely pubescent. Leaves are alternate; petioles are up to 3 cm long; stipules are short, obliquely truncated, with pointed or obtuse tips; leaf blades are ovate, 3-6 cm long, 2-5 cm wide, acuminate at the tip, broadly cordate at the base, glabrous or sparsely hairy along the veins and edges. The inflorescence is spike-shaped, terminal or axillary, with ovate bracts; the flowers are sparsely arranged, light green; the perianth is deeply lobed into 5 parts, the lobes are slightly enlarged when fruiting, sometimes with raised ribs or narrow wings; the stamens are 8, shorter than the perianth; the style is very short, with 3 stigmas, capitate. Achenes are ovate, 3-ribbed, black, densely covered with small dots, and dull. Flowering and fruiting period is June to August.

[Habitat distribution] Ecological environment: grows in valleys, field edges or roadsides.

[Chemical composition] The root of Polygonum convolvulus contains coumarin. The leaves and flowers contain quercetin, kaempferol, hypero-side (hyperin), quercitoside, avicularoside (avicu-larin), and rutin. The leaves and fruits contain 2,6-dihydroxybenzoic acid, caffeic acid, chlorogenic acid, and p-coumaric acid. Its seeds contain linoleic acid. It also contains amino acids.

[Pharmacological action] A 38-day toxicity test was conducted on Wistar rats using a feed containing 5% and 20% Polygonum convolvulus seeds. Pathological histological examination revealed obvious liver damage accompanied by abnormal biochemical indicators, such as changes in serum aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), plasma total protein and plasma albumin levels.

【Nature and flavor】 Spicy; warm

【Functions and indications】 Strengthens the spleen and helps digestion. Main indigestion; diarrhea

[Usage and Dosage] For oral use: decoction, 6-12g.

【Excerpt】 Chinese Materia Medica

From the above description, we can know that the nutritional value and medicinal value of Polygonum convolvulus are very high. It can treat some diseases and can also be used as a raw material for diet therapy. It is indeed a good choice for health and wellness.