Resveratrol, or trans-resveratrol, is a familiar term for many beauty and health-conscious people. It is a secondary plant substance that belongs to the group of polyphenols.
The substance was first discovered in 1939 by the French chemist Jacques Cartier in the white Helleborus rhizome. 20 years later, the antioxidant was also found in red wine. The substance thus gained worldwide fame.
At the end of the 20th century, resveratrol attracted attention again with the "French paradox". In short: the discrepancy between the diet of the French with high red wine consumption associated with a low risk of cardiovascular disease compared to other European countries with a similar diet. The high consumption of red wine with many polyphenols such as resveratrol was blamed for this. The explanation: polyphenols, natural antioxidants, can reduce inflammation that can lead to cardiovascular problems.
Trans-Resveratrol versus Resveratrol
Unlike resveratrol, trans-resveratrol is the active, bioavailable form of the plant substance. The majority of scientific studies refer to trans-resveratrol because of its higher bioavailability and better absorption into the body.
In which foods and plants does trans-resveratrol occur?
It was only in the 1990s that it was discovered that Japanese knotweed, especially the roots, has the highest concentration of trans-resveratrol. In Japan, knotweed is known as "knotweed" and is prepared for food, boiled, fried and used as an ingredient in soups and sauces or simply as a side dish. The shoots are prepared like asparagus, the roots similar to carrots and celery.
Resveratrol is found in small amounts in red wine grapes, blueberries, raspberries, peanuts (in the red skins) and cocoa.
What effects do antioxidants such as trans-resveratrol have in plants and humans?
Trans-resveratrol is a “natural plant protection agent”. Secondary plant substances such as trans-resveratrol can act as a protective mechanism in foods against diseases, pests and UV radiation.
It protects plants against stress, pests, predators, diseases and environmental influences. In the human body, trans-resveratrol acts as an antioxidant and protects our cells from damage caused by free radicals (oxidative stress).
Polyphenols such as trans-resveratrol offer anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and thus anti-aging effects. The substance generally serves as a cell protector - this is primarily the reason for the anti-aging effect - which promotes the longevity of cells and slows down the natural aging process. For radiant beauty from within.
Conclusion: Trans-resveratrol is a secondary plant substance that can have a positive effect on health, well-being and beauty. It has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-aging effects. It is found in various foods, of which Japanese knotweed stands out due to its high content of trans-resveratrol, the effective form of resveratrol. In order to fully exploit its anti-aging effects, an optimally dosed dietary supplement is recommended.
