3 research outputs found
New Approaches on Japanese Knotweed (Fallopia japonica) Bioactive Compounds and Their Potential of Pharmacological and Beekeeping Activities: Challenges and Future Directions
Known especially for its negative ecological impact, Fallopia japonica (Japanese knotweed)
is now considered one of the most invasive species. Nevertheless, its chemical composition has
shown, beyond doubt, some high biological active compounds that can be a source of valuable
pharmacological potential for the enhancement of human health. In this direction, resveratrol, emodin
or polydatin, to name a few, have been extensively studied to demonstrate the beneficial effects on
animals and humans. Thus, by taking into consideration the recent advances in the study of Japanese
knotweed and its phytochemical constituents, the aim of this article is to provide an overview on
the high therapeutic potential, underlining its antioxidant, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory and
anticancer effects, among the most important ones. Moreover, we describe some future directions for
reducing the negative impact of Fallopia japonica by using the plant for its beekeeping properties in
providing a distinct honey type that incorporates most of its bioactive compounds, with the same
health-promoting properties