Kudzu Root
KUDZU ROOT, Pueraria lobata
Description: It has shown value in treating migraines and cluster headaches. In traditional Chinese medicine, Kudzu is considered one of the 50 fundamental herbs. Studies have shown that Kudzu can reduce both hangovers and alcohol cravings. It is used to treat tinnitus, vertigo and Wei syndrome (superficial heat close to the surface). A person who takes Kudzu, will still drink alcohol, but will consume less than if they had not taken Kudzu. The mechanism for this is not yet established, but it may have to do with both alcohol metabolism and the reward circuits in the brain. The Harvard Medical School is studying Kudzu as a possible way to treat alcoholic cravings, by turning an extracted compound from the herb into a medical drug.
Therapeutic actions: Antispasmodic; Anti-pyretic; Anti-inflammatory; Anti-microbial; Anti-cancer; Anti-leukemic; Diaphoretic; Muscle relaxant.
Nutrients: Calcium, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, vitamin B2.
Drug interactions: No known drug interactions.
Ingredients
Kudzu Root, Distilled Water and 20% alcohol.
Instructions
Kudzu Root Safety & Interaction Information
Kudzu is believed to be safe; however, safety in young children, pregnant and nursing women, or those with severe kidney or liver disease, is not known.
Kudzu Root Dosage Information
The recommended dose of Kudzu ranges from 9 to 15 g daily, in tea or tablets, although the proper length of treatment for alcoholism has not been established.
References and Research Info
Kudzu Root is a prized herb in Asian countries for use as a food as well as a medicine, but in the United States, it has become an invasive pest. Kudzu can grow as much as a foot a day during the summer, and 60 feet a year prompting people to nickname it “mile-a-minute vine“. It has been used as animal fodder, soil erosion control, basket weaving, but is best be used in the treatment of alcoholism.
