Sporysh / Common knotgrass

Polygonum aviculare

Edible plant

Slavic

Photo credit: Dalgial

Safety information

Toxicity: Mild. Generally low-toxicity; silicic-acid/tannin content -> caution with very prolonged use.

Contraindications: Acute kidney inflammation/renal disease where diuresis is inappropriate; pregnancy/lactation (insufficient data — caution); thrombophlebitis (folk caution re: coagulation).

Interactions: Theoretical additive with diuretics; tannin-absorption caution.

Pregnancy & breastfeeding: Pregnancy/lactation: insufficient data — caution.

Evidence level

Preclinical

Supported by laboratory or animal studies; not yet confirmed in humans.

Preparations

decoction · flowering herb

Part used: flowering herb

Evidence:Preclinical

infusion (tea) · flowering herb

Part used: flowering herb

Traditional use: mild diuretic for urinary-tract complaints, to pass urinary 'sand/stones', cough, astringent for diarrhoea, 'to strengthen'

Proposed mechanism: flavonoids (avicularin, quercetin glycosides), silicic acid, tannins

Evidence:Preclinical

General preparation guide →

Associated conditions

Cough Diarrhoea urinary tract complaints urinary stones

Edibility

Edible parts: Young plant is edible cooked in some traditions but wiry/astringent — used as a tea herb, not a staple food.

Toxic lookalike warning

Small prostrate mat-forming plant with tiny leaves sheathed by membranous ochreae — verify Polygonum aviculare; avoid confusion with unrelated prostrate weeds.

Nutritional notes

Source of silicic acid, flavonoids; minor.

Healing traditions

Slavic

Sources (1)

Olas et al. 2024, Pharmaceuticals (PMC11054606)

All sources →