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Early research focused on rats with good results, which were later replicated with human subjects. In 2012, I ordered some high-quality organic kudzu capsules after reading about the potential for it to curb alcohol consumption. I took several capsules per day before drinking, and went through all of it in about one month. The kudzu root may interact with certain medications or pose other health risks for certain people.
White, chalky, dried kudzu is also sold in many health food stores. You can purchase kudzu root extract in dissolvable form’including in tea bags’that can be added to soups or other dishes. Kudzu is being investigated for treatment of alcohol use disorder and cervical spondylosis; the estrogenic activity and cardioprotective effects of kudzu and its constituent puerarin are also under investigation. However, limited clinical studies exist to recommend use for any indication. Studies of kudzu in humans are limited and have mostly focused on whether it can reduce alcohol intake or menopausal symptoms.
A standardized kudzu extract (NPI- reduces alcohol consumption in nontreatment-seeking male heavy drinkers
Kudzu can be taken in conjunction with other medications for alcoholism, but it is important to consult with a healthcare professional before combining treatments. Kudzu may interact with certain medications, such as benzodiazepines, and can cause adverse effects. Kudzu is a natural remedy that has been used for centuries in Traditional Chinese Medicine to treat alcoholism. While it may not be as effective as some prescription medications, it can still be a helpful addition to a comprehensive treatment plan for alcoholism. Kudzu root may also be helpful for women experiencing menopausal symptoms.
Kudzu is a botanical used in traditional medicine to treat alcoholism, cardiovascular disease, menopausal symptoms, diabetes, fever, the common cold, and neck or eye pain. There are several species of kudzu and both the flowers and root extract are used for their medicinal properties. Isoflavones, the major components of kudzu, are thought to be responsible for its potential effects.
Treatment with kudzu extract does not cause an increase in alcohol’s intoxicating effects
For this reason, it’s difficult to make recommendations for various uses. While kudzu root may offer a few specific benefits, there are also some potential downsides to consider. Kudzu root is the edible part of a trailing vine native to several Asian countries. People have used it for many years in traditional Chinese medicine, and it resembles other root tubers, like yams.
- After consuming kudzu extract for 4 weeks, the participants reduced their number of weekly alcoholic beverages by at least a third.
- Scientists need to do more research on the safe and effective dosages of kudzu root for various uses.
- Information from this source is evidence-based and objective, and without commercial influence.
- Here are our best tips to find the perf kudzu root supplement.
It is important to note that kudzu should not be used as a substitute for professional medical treatment for alcoholism. In retrospect, my experience demonstrates the utility of kudzu for alcoholism. If I had been committed to using it to wean off of alcohol and then quit, it might have been a very valuable part of my recovery. I did not know at the time that people also use it to treat alcohol withdrawal symptoms; nor did I care, because I did not intend to quit at the time. The use of kudzu for alcoholism originated in China around 600 A.D.
Anti-inflammatory effects
This information is not specific medical advice and does not replace information you receive from your health care provider. You should talk with your health care provider for complete information about the risks and benefits of using this product. In Traditional Chinese Medicine, kudzu root can be used for lots of health purposes. Some common applications include treating fevers and easing symptoms of diabetes. Now kudzu’s popularity is also picking up in the Western world as a wellness supplement.
The appropriate dose of kudzu depends on several factors such as the user’s age, health, and several other conditions. At this time there is not enough scientific information to determine an appropriate range of doses for kudzu. Keep in mind that natural products are not always necessarily safe and dosages can be important. Be sure to follow relevant directions on product labels and consult your pharmacist or physician or other healthcare professional before using. In theory, taking kudzu along with medication that might also harm the liver can increase the risk of liver damage. But kudzu isn’t as strong as the estrogen in birth control pills.
Side Effects and Safety
The plant contains phytoestrogens, which are compounds that mimic the effects of estrogen in the body. Kudzu, also known as Pueraria Montana, is a climbing vine that belongs to the pea family. This invasive weed is native to East Asia, particularly China, Japan, and Korea, where it has been used for centuries in traditional Chinese medicine. Kudzu is a natural medicine that is extracted from the root of the plant. It’s best to speak with your healthcare provider to determine whether kudzu root could interact with any medications you’re taking.
The most popular forms available appear to be powdered drink mixes, capsules, disintegrating tablets, and liquid extract drops. Kudzu root may help treat some of the most common menopausal complaints, including hot flashes and night sweats. The kudzu plant resembles poison ivy, so it’s important to know how to identify it correctly. Role https://ecosoberhouse.com/ of Funding Source Funding for this study was provided by NIAAA grant R01-AA10536 to Dr. Lukas and NCCAM grant P01-AT to Dr. Lee. The NIAAA and NCCAM had no further role in the study design; in the collection, analysis and interpretation of data; in the writing of the report; or in the decision to submit the paper for publication.
The ability of puerarin and related isoflavones to facilitate alcohol’s entry into the brain has not been systematically studied. For this mechanism to be plausible, the more rapid penetration of alcohol into the brain would have to trigger a satiety mechanism rather quickly such that the desire for the next drink is delayed—thus interrupting a binge episode. This is precisely what was observed in the present study as kudzu’s effects were evident after a single dose within a few hours of administration. Of course, it is entirely possible that any of the above mechanisms may also develop with repeated administration and complement the immediate altered absorption effect that likely explains kudzu’s rapid onset of action. Some medical scientists warn that chronic use of the root, especially during or shortly after drinking, may increase the risk of cancers. If you intend to use kudzu to battle an existing cardiovascular condition and you already take medication for it, do not take it without your doctor’s supervision, as kudzu can cause side effects and interact adversely with other drugs.