Polygonum Cuspidatum Root Extract is commonly known as Japanese knotweed root extract. It is a powerful botanical rich in trans-resveratrol (the primary active), emodin, polydatin, quercetin, piceid, and other polyphenols. It is one of the highest natural sources of resveratrol and is prized for its exceptional antioxidant, anti-aging, anti-inflammatory, brightening, and skin-protective properties. This light to medium brown liquid or powder is widely used in premium anti-aging serums, brightening treatments, protective day creams, sunscreens, and soothing masks. It is commonly included in formulations targeting photoaging, hyperpigmentation, redness, and loss of firmness.
Products with POLYGONUM CUSPIDATUM ROOT EXTRACT
MultiEx BSASM™
by Biospectrum
- Sustainable option
RESVERATROL BT
by Bio Component Research
- Sustainable option
What is POLYGONUM CUSPIDATUM ROOT EXTRACT used for?
- Antioxidant protection: Extremely potent free-radical scavenger (resveratrol is often compared to or synergistic with vitamin C/E). Frequently used in day creams, serums, and sunscreens for prevention of photoaging, oxidative stress, and environmental damage.
- Anti-aging / Firming: Boosts collagen synthesis, inhibits MMPs (matrix metalloproteinases), and improves elasticity. Ideal for mature skin products, neck/firming creams, and anti-wrinkle treatments.
- Brightening / Tone evening: Inhibits tyrosinase and melanin transfer, reduces hyperpigmentation. Common in spot correctors, brightening serums, and even-tone formulations.
- Soothing & anti-inflammatory: Calms irritation, redness, and inflammation. Used in sensitive skin lines, rosacea care, after-sun products, and post-procedure treatments for comfort and barrier support.
Origin
Polygonum Cuspidatum Root Extract is sourced from the roots of Japanese knotweed (Polygonum cuspidatum / Fallopia japonica), a perennial plant native to East Asia (China, Japan, Korea) and now widespread globally. Roots are harvested, cleaned, dried, and extracted using water, glycerin, ethanol, or supercritical CO₂ to concentrate resveratrol (typically 50-98% in standardized grades), polydatin, emodin, and other polyphenols. This sustainable process yields a high-potency extract suitable for clean, vegan, and natural cosmetic formulations.
What does POLYGONUM CUSPIDATUM ROOT EXTRACT do in a formulation?
Safety Profile
Polygonum Cuspidatum Root Extract is considered safe for cosmetic use. It has a very low hazard rating from EWG (typically 1) and minimal concerns for irritation, sensitization, or toxicity at typical concentrations (0.1-5%; often effective at 0.5-2% for resveratrol-standardized grades). It is well-tolerated across skin types, including sensitive and acne-prone, with strong antioxidant and soothing properties. Rare allergic reactions may occur in those sensitive to Polygonaceae family plants. Patch testing is recommended. High-resveratrol extracts are generally non-irritating.
POLYGONUM CUSPIDATUM ROOT EXTRACT alternatives
POLYGONUM CUSPIDATUM ROOT EXTRACT technical profile
| Property | Values |
| pH | 4.0 - 7.0 |
| Solubility | Soluble in water/glycols (aqueous extract) or oils |
| Viscosity | Low |
