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What is resveratrol and where does it come from?

In short: resveratrol is a polyphenol (antioxidant) found in grape skins and in the plant Japanese knotweed (Polygonum cuspidatum), among others; the latter is the usual source for supplements. No health claims for resveratrol are authorised in the EU.

Resveratrol is a natural plant compound that became known for its presence in the skin of red grapes and in red wine. It belongs to the polyphenols, a large group of plant antioxidants. In this article we explain factually what resveratrol is, which sources contain it, why Japanese knotweed is so often used and what to look for when choosing a resveratrol supplement.

Wat is resveratrol en waar komt het vandaan

Resveratrol: a polyphenol from plants

Resveratrol is a polyphenol that plants produce naturally. It is found in the skin of red grapes, in peanuts, blueberries and in the plant Japanese knotweed (Polygonum cuspidatum). As a polyphenol, resveratrol belongs to the same broad family of plant compounds that you also find in green tea and dark berries.

No health claims are authorised in the EU for resveratrol. The information below is therefore descriptive and factual, without health or medical claims.

Why Polygonum cuspidatum?

Japanese knotweed naturally contains a high level of resveratrol. As a result, less plant material is needed to make a concentrated extract, which makes this plant a common source for supplements. Supplements often contain 500 mg of pure resveratrol extract per capsule.

  • Source — often Polygonum cuspidatum (Japanese knotweed), a concentrated natural source.
  • Form — usually a plant-based capsule with pure extract.
  • Dose — check the amount of resveratrol per capsule on the label.

Frequently asked questions about resveratrol

Choosing resveratrol: what to look for

Practical points to consider

If you want to compare resveratrol products, look at:

  • Source — Polygonum cuspidatum is common and concentrated.
  • Dose — the amount of resveratrol per capsule.
  • Purity — a pure extract from a transparent manufacturer.
  • Capsule — plant-based for a vegan diet.
  • Medication — consult a doctor if you take medicines.

Disclaimer: this article provides general, descriptive product information without health or medical claims. No health claims are authorised in the EU for the substances mentioned in this article, unless explicitly stated otherwise. If you have health complaints or take medication, always consult a doctor or other qualified healthcare professional.

A food supplement is not a substitute for a varied, balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle.

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