Buffalo weed proved to be effective at killing periodontitis-inducing germs. (image: Nat’l Inst. of Biological Resources)
SEJONG, Jun. 22 (Korea Bizwire) — Korean researchers have found a use for invasive alien plants that are disturbing local ecosystems, as six species have proven to be effective in treating and preventing tooth, gum and skin diseases.
The National Institute of Biological Resources said on June 21 that extracts from Prickly lettuce, Buffalo weed, Carolina horsenettle, Pigeonberry, Black locust and Western salsify all proved to be effective at killing periodontitis-inducing germs.
Extracts from Buffalo weed, Pigeonberry and Black locust were especially effective, showing disinfecting ability as strong as antibiotic tetracycline.
Extracts from Black locust proved to be effective in treating herpesvirus, while Buffalo weed extract appears to have anti-oxidant and skin-brightening agents.
The institute is expecting to improve and normalize the Korean ecosystem by utilizing the invasive species in the biomedical industry.
There are currently 18 invasive alien species in Korea identified by the Ministry of Environment that are disturbing local ecosystems.
Among the invasive species are 12 plant species, such as Common ragweed, White snakeroot, Clothing paspalum, knotgrass and Bur cucumber; 1 mammal, the Nutria; 2 fish species; and 1 insect species.
The institute submitted applications for 10 patents regarding the research results last month. The results were published in the April issue of Molecules.
By M. H. Lee (mhlee@koreabizwire.com)
