KNOTWEED, GIANT

Jerusalem artichoke had a similar methane production potential for repeated cuttings in the Finnish trials, whereas other leafy energy crops assessed, such as giant knotweed (Reynoutria sachalinensis F. Schmidt ex Maxim.) and sugar beet tops (Beta vulgaris L.), had methane potentials that increased at later harvests. Lignin levels were also unusually constant for the tops of Jerusalem artichoke, regardless of maturity, while nonstructural carbohydrates (fructans) increased in the stems... 

Two naphthoquinones, emodin (65) and physcion (66), and their glucosides were identified as allelochemicals from the rhizomes, aerial parts, and fallen leaves of giant knotweed (Polygonum sachalinense Fr. Schm.).7 In addition, the concentrations of emodin and physcion in the soil samples collected from the weed community were high enough to suppress seedling growth of susceptible plant species. 

In recent years, it has been extensively and successfully used in China as an ingredient in numerous formulas (in extract or powder form) for treating bums, often together with giant knotweed, garden burnet, baikal scull-cap (see individual entries), and zz cao also used in wounds and injuries and to treat acne and facial dark spots. 

In recent years, Baikal skullcap is also used in treating bums, often combined with phellodendron, giant knotweed, and garden bumet (see individual entries), as well as different kinds of infections (bacterial, viral, etc.) and hypertension, among others (jiangsu). 

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