Scientific Name/Common Name: Polygonum aviculare / Knotgrass
Part(s) Used: Aerial portions/herb
Constituents/Active Ingredients: The leaves and flowers of knotgrass contain: Approximately 0.2-1% flavonoids; kaempferol; myricitrin; quercitin; avicularin; mucilage; tannic-acid; approximately 1% silicic acid; phenol-carboxylic acids and coumarin derivatives including umbelliferone and scopoletin; and other common plant substances.
Overview: Knotgrass is an annual herb native to North America and Eurasia. The German Commission E recommends using knotgrass herb and flowers for treating mild respiratory catarrh (mucous), as an expectorant for coughs, colds, and bronchitis, and for alleviating inflammation of the mucous membranes of the mouth and throat. Knotgrass, otherwise known as Mexican Sanguinaria can also be used against gingivitis. Knotgrass contains many antimicrobial compounds and polyphenol compounds. A clinical trial of dentistry students found benefits in reducing gingivitis when using knotgrass extract as an oral rinse.
Traditional Use/Benefits/Body Systems: As an expectorant for the respiratory system; for sore throat, cough, and colds.
Clinical Studies/Scientific Research/References: A Novel Lignan and Flavonoids from Polygonum aviculare. Hyoung Ja Kim, Eun-Rhan Woo and Hokoon Park, J. Nat. Prod., 1994, 57 (5), pages 581–586. Wichtl M (ed). 1994. Polygoni avicularis - Knotgrass herb. In Herbal Drugs and Phyto-pharmaceuticals. (English translation by Norman Grainger Bisset). CRC Press, Stuttgart, pp. 386-387. González Begné M, et al. Clinical effect of a Mexican sanguinaria extract (Polygonum aviculare L.) on gingivitis. J Ethnopharmacol. 2001 Jan;74(1):45-51.
Disclaimer: This information in our Herbal Encyclopedia is intended only as a general reference for educational purposes. It is not a replacement for medical advice. This content does not provide dosage information, cautions/contraindications, or possible interactions with prescription drugs. Please consult any relevant product labels for detailed information on use and with a medical practitioner for individual health advice.
