Dr. Paul Haider – Master Herbalist for over 30 years, helping people to live healthier lives. The aforementioned isoflavones are what help regulate hormones and in turn help combat the pesky symptoms that come along with PMS, perimenopause, and menopause. Taking kudzu along with birth control pills might decrease the effectiveness of birth control pills. In 1876, farmers brought kudzu to America to feed livestock and prevent soil erosion. They consumed either kudzu extract or matched placebo on a daily basis. The Preventative Medicine Center (PMC) suggests kudzu as a remedy for an upset stomach caused by digestive issues. Although it doesn’t help in reducing the craving for a drink or maintaining sobriety, small studies have found that when taking kudzu root extract, heavy drinkers consumed less booze than usual. Kudzu is also known as a backyard invasive plant. The alkaline diet has been in the limelight recently, with everyone from ... Caralluma fimbriata has been consumed in Indian cultures for thousands of years. Taking kudzu along with diabetes medications could cause your blood sugar to go too low. Key TCM concepts behind kudzu roots (Ge Gen)'s properties. “The root, flower, and leaf are used to make medicine.” Kudzu has been a staple in Chinese medicine, for like, forever—we’re talking at least 600 AD. These phytochemicals can help fight disease caused by inflammation, treat alcoholism, reduce blood pressure, fight the flu, reduce symptoms of menopause and more. © 2021 Well+Good LLC. Read honest and unbiased product reviews from our users. In fact, “arrow root” is becoming one of the most popular flour replacements for … Interestingly, the BBC did its own little study and found that subjects who consumed the kudzu supplement prior to drinking actually consumed 20 percent less alcohol than usual. Well first, ... We know that inflammation is at the root of most diseases, and ... Top 12 Winter Vegetables to Eat & Grow (+ Benefits & Recipes), 17 Great Probiotic Foods for Better Gut Health, Detox Your Liver: Try My 6-Step Liver Cleanse. In addition to the kudzu root, the leaves and vine tips are edible. If you struggle with metabolic syndrome (which incorporates a bunch of health problems like high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and insulin resistance), kudzu might be worth looking into. Here's what the research says so far about kudzu health … For more anti-inflammatory benefits, check out moringa. The benefits of kudzu root starch include low calories to help reduce calories in your diet, hot water to raise core temperature boosting your metabolism, and prevention from overeating. Now it makes sense as to why most any southerner knows what kudzu is. And it was introduced to the United States in 1876 when it was used to control soil erosion. Kudzu is commonly used in Traditional Chinese Medicine. When broken down, kudzu root has a thick and sticky consistency resembling a type of mucus that naturally coats the lining of the stomach. Going through the change? There are some known risks of kudzu root that you should be aware of before consuming. “Kudzu root extract contains isoflavones, which appear to lower cholesterol, blood pressure, blood sugar, and insulin levels,” Beckerman says. Additionally, eliminating hot flashes and night sweats, an upset stomach and inflammation are all benefits that you may find from eating kudzu root or taking it as a supplement or tea. It was this invasive characteristic that actually gave way to the plant becoming a need to help with soil erosion problems, particularly in the South where dust storms damaged prairies. A study published in Psychopharmacology involved four weeks of treatment of 17 men ages 21–33 years old. Kudzu root, also known as kuzu, is mostly used as an herb in Traditional Chinese Medicine. Our team includes licensed nutritionists and dietitians, certified health education specialists, as well as certified strength and conditioning specialists, personal trainers and corrective exercise specialists. If you’re on medications that slow blood clotting, please talk to your doctor first before consuming kudzu in any form as it may cause bruising and bleeding. (6), Kudzu is also known as a backyard invasive plant. There was a Kudzu Club of America that had a membership of 20,000 leading to a goal of planting 8 million acres with kudzu across the South. It is often used interchangeably in traditional Chinese medicine with thomson kudzu root (Fengen in Chinese), the dried root of P. thomsonii, although the Chinese Pharmacopoeia has separated them into two monographs since the 2005 edition. CA Do Not Sell My Personal Information     Sitemap redirect. Flavonoid-like substances in kudzu contribute to an increase in blood circulation and flow in the arteries of the heart and reduce the heart’s need for oxygen. Read our Privacy Policy and Terms and Conditions. Kudzu root has been given the honor of helping reduce the painful effects of a hangover, though it seems that if overused, it could be more harmful than good. Kudzu root has also shown to help regulate glucose, AKA sugar, in the … Together, they benefit the digestive system, even offering relief from stomach ulcers and heartburn. Both can be used interchangeably for thickening liquids, sauces, gravies, etc. Make sure to speak with your health care provider before utilizing this ancient remedy. Get it daily. The kudzu plant actually produces fragrant, purple blossoms, which are made into jellies, syrups and candies. Kuzu root (or kudzu), in particular, has been used by Eastern healers for almost 2,000 years. With a generous amount of phytochemicals, Kudzu has many unique health benefits. The Kudzu root is used in traditional Chinese dishes for both flavor and medicinal purposes. However, look closely at the label to make sure you know how much kudzu is in it. Umeboshi plum, which is strongly alkaline, neutralizes the harmful effects of excess stomach acid. As far the the root goes, you can cook kudzu roots like potatoes, or dry them and grind them into powder, which makes a great breading for fried foods or a thickener for sauces. Tennessee, Alabama and northern Georgia are considered centers of the kudzu invasion, and the Florida Panhandle us among the areas that the authors argue should be prioritized. Now often referenced as a “kudzu desert,” a recent study in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences reports that species are primarily in the Southeast, and most lands protected as federal and state parks are in the West. And here’s how much turmeric you should be taking. “When kudzu is taken orally, it can improve vasomotor symptom scores (i.e. Though research on kudzu for symptoms of menopause has been conflicting, some studies suggest that taking kudzu by mouth can reduce hot flashes and improve vaginal dryness in women going through menopause. This 15-Minute Neck-and-Shoulder Stretch Relieves Tension in Your Body and Mind, 5 Inexpensive Espresso Machines That Still Make a Real Mean Shot. Best used for Hangover and Alcoholic Craving. (3). The need was so important that the Soil Conservation Service offered as much as $8 per acre to anyone who was willing to plant the vine. Its many potential benefits stem from its chemical makeup. Moon Milk: Does This Trendy Drink Help You Sleep? Kudzu took root so well in the Southeastern U.S. that the U.S. Department of Agriculture now considers it a weed. Should You Take Kudzu for Alcohol Dependence? For instance, kudzu root can interact with certain drugs, and the plant itself is an invader that’s difficult to control. With strict editorial sourcing guidelines, we only link to academic research institutions, reputable media sites and, when research is available, medically peer-reviewed studies. (7). Pueraria mirifica is found as an ingredient in some foods or in dietary supplements for improving hot flashes and night sweats in perimenopausal and post-menopausal women, while reducing blood lipids. Note that the numbers in parentheses (1, 2, etc.) Pre-clinical studies show that kudzu root extracts reduce alcohol consumption; 2.2 2. Kudzu root has been used as a natural remedy for measles and pains as well as in easing digestive tract issues. Kudzu is a green, blossoming vine native to Japan and China. As early as 600 AD, it was used to treat alcoholism. Kudzu is often used to more quickly dispel the effects of alcohol ingestion. Regardless, if you’re on any medication, make sure to check with your doctor. Naturopathic physicians report an astonishing range of applications for kudzu. Kudzu helps improve bowel movements and can ease digestion. It forms massive shapes, hence the all-natural topiary. While you can find kudzu vine almost anywhere in the South by taking a drive on a country road, kudzu root is probably most popular by way of a supplement or as kudzu root tea that can be found at most health food stores. ... Do you know some of the best vitamin B5 foods? This might motivate them to drink less. Today, the U.S. Forest Service reports that kudzu occupies somewhere around  227,000 acres of forestland. Inflammation is not something to be take lightly as it can contribute to more serious issues like cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and even cancer. Are we overlooking the great uses and benefits of what kudzu has to offer humanity? Ōkura is well aware of kudzu’s role in traditional Chinese medicine, where the root extract has long been used as a treatment for alcohol intoxication as well as hypertension, coughs and colds. The PMC suggests that combining kudzu with umeboshi plum is best because the umeboshi plum neutralizes excess acid, a much needed result since too much acid can cause diarrhea. So far, scientific support for the benefits of kudzu is limited. However, more human trials need to be conducted to know for sure. While kudzu flowers can reduce acetaldehyde, the root (which is the most common ingredient in supplements) does the opposite. Find patient medical information for kudzu root (bulk) on WebMD including its uses, side effects and safety, interactions, pictures, warnings and user ratings. However, studies have shown that it may help reduce alcoholism. A new docu-series explores what it means to live a healthy, long life. 30 Gluten-Free Recipes & detox juicing guide. Kudzu's root, flower, and leaf are used to make medicine. Kuzu is also noted for its high flavonoid composition and is gaining traction in the medical community for its ability to treat a variety of health concerns. Generally, in order to deal with headache people opt for general painkillers. Historically, Kudzu root has been used in Japan and China as a source of starch. Benefits of Kudzu root extract Headaches It is a known fact in the 21 st century we live a very busy life. What part of the kudzu is edible? ), Chia Seeds Benefits: The Omega-3, Protein-Packed Superfood, 9 Proven Black Seed Oil Benefits that Boost Your Health, Top 15 Potassium-Rich Foods to Start Eating Today, 25 Acidic Foods to Avoid and Healthier Alternatives. There are numerous indications, however, that it may help someone with alcoholism. Birth control pills may interact with kudzu since kudzu, too, contains estrogen-like effects. are clickable links to these studies. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), kudzu roots are plants that belong to the 'Cool/Acrid herbs that release the Exterior' category. However, kudzu may be an alternative option. Additionally, it might help improve mental abilities of postmenopausal women. It has been used in Chinese medicine since at least 200 BC. It was originally intended to be used as animal fodder and control soil erosion, but with growth rates of up to a foot a day in the summer, this plant can be a challenge to control — perhaps, too much of a good thing. Kudzu contains isoflavones, estrogen-like compounds thought to offer various health benefits. ... Kudzu (root) Kudzu extract (root) 1.22 … Some have reported that the labels are misleading, claiming more kudzu contents that there really are. It was this invasive characteristic that actually gave way to the plant becoming a need to help with soil erosion problems, particularly in the South where dust storms damaged prairies. The Chinese cook it in many dishes for both medicinal purposes and flavor, but in the United States, it has a bit of a pesky reputation as an invader that takes over telephone poles, yards and trees. If you have ever driven through the South and looked into fields and wooded areas noticing a vine-like plant resembling a topiary, chances are that plant was kudzu. Benefits of Kudzu Root Powder in Your Diet for Losing Weight Kudzu powder in your diet comes with many great benefits for those who are trying to lose weight. Kudzu is a remedy or treatment for various illnesses and conditions, and, depending on who you talk to, it could be a huge aid to getting your mind, body, and spirit right. Compounds called isoflavones are thought to be responsible for its potential effects. Caralluma Fimbriata for Appetite Suppression & Weight Loss: Does It Work? Kudzu root is home to a wide variety of natural antioxidants also called phytochemicals. So if you're wondering what kudzu root is, how it works, what it's used for, and how it could benefit you, then you've come to the right place. These efforts did not last with just over a million acres of kudzu by 1945. By affecting estrogen in the body, kudzu may decrease the effectiveness of some drugs. It does this by raising the alcohol levels so the person using it gets the effect of alcohol without drinking as much. Phytochemicals with anti-oxidant properties. (2) This, in turn, could help prevent or treat cirrhosis and other alcohol-related conditions as well. Regardless, kudzu root, which is part of the kudzu vine, has become noticed as a healthful supplement because it contains quercetin, genistein, and the isoflavone compounds daidzein, daidzin, tectorigenin and puerarin, all of which are potent antioxidants found in plants knowns as phytochemicals. For measles and rashes combine kudzu roots with greater burdock fruits (Niu Bang Zi), bugbane rhizomes (Sheng Ma) and wild mint (Bo He). They include quercetin, isoflavones, geninstein, daidzin, and puerarin. The need was so important that the Soil Conservation Service offered as muc… Kudzu root has also shown to help regulate glucose, AKA sugar, in the blood, Beckerman says. ). But, we’ll preface this by saying that unlike other super common herbal supplements, kudzu hasn’t been widely tested—although preliminary studies do look promising. Our team aims to be not only thorough with its research, but also objective and unbiased. The information in our articles is NOT intended to replace a one-on-one relationship with a qualified health care professional and is not intended as medical advice. Dr. Josh Axe is on a mission to provide you and your family with the highest quality nutrition tips and healthy recipes in the world...Sign up to get VIP access to his eBooks and valuable weekly health tips for FREE! hot flashes and night sweats) in perimenopausal women,” Beckerman says. Ohwi, a semi-woody, perennial and leguminous vine native to South East Asia. In such conditions,headache is a common thing. Kudzu is a high protein food not only for animals but for humans too. (4), Kudzu is thought to help to treat menopausal and perimenopausal symptoms, such as hot flashes and night sweats, due to its estrogen-like characteristics. Therefore, sometimes, we take too much load in our brain our sometimes we do not get anadequate amount of rest. It is time to focus on moving forward from where we are and research all the amazing uses of this excessive resource. The kudzu has a thick, viscous consistency, similar to the gastric mucus, which coats the stomach and protects it from excess hydrochloric acid. Here, Beckerman shares some of the health benefits of taking kudzu. Kudzu may slow blood clotting. Lab studies suggest that kudzu has anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective properties. More studies are needed, but kudzu could be promising for those battling alcoholism. The findings concluded that not only did it reduce inflammation, but it exhibited antioxidant properties, making it a possible alternative to commercial medication. It can regulate glucose levels. It has also been advocated by folk medicine practitioners to boost your vitality, ease fatigue, and ward off bacterial infection. Kudzu is a fast-growing vine native to the subtropical regions of China and Japan, as well as some other Pacific islands.1, 2 The plant consists of leaves (containing 3 broad oval leaflets), purple flowers, and curling tendril spikes.3, 4 Because the stem grows up to 20 m in length and due to its extensive root system, kudzu has been used to control soil erosion. Kudzu could help. Kudzu is often used as a remedy for heart and circulatory problems and high blood pressure. This article is based on scientific evidence, written by experts and fact checked by our trained editorial staff. Today, kudzu is used to treat alcoholism and to reduce symptoms of alcohol hangover, including headache, upset stomach, dizziness, and vomiting. 2 5 Proven Benefits of Kudzu Root For Alcoholism. It’s not known exactly why this works, but it’s believed to be because kudzu increases in blood flow, which allows you to feel the effects of the alcohol sooner, allowing you to stop drinking sooner, after fewer drinks. Kudzu was introduced to the United States in the late 1800s to One particular ingredient in the vine called puerarin is what guides the glucose to spread away from fat cells and blood vessels and into other areas of the body where it’s needed, such as your muscles. It’s also said to minimize the symptoms of a hangover. Kudzu is often found in Southern foods eaten raw, sautéed, deep-fried, baked and jellied, but if you have a need to harvest kudzu, it must be done with care. Notes. One of the most commonly known uses of kudzu is treating alcoholism (this is what it was originally used for in ancient China). United States in 1876 when it was used to control soil erosion, For more anti-inflammatory benefits, check out moringa, here’s how much turmeric you should be taking. (9). It is usually treated with over-the-counter medications, but kudzu might be a more natural option. The subjects were asked to report on their alcohol consumption and desire for alcohol. You Can Stop Hot Flashes and Night Sweats: It is believed that the benefits of Kudzu root help treat … It's touted for its potential ability to quell digestive disturbances and calm the nerves. Kudzu may reduce intoxication or hangover caused by excess alcohol consumption; 2.4 4. This mucus helps break down acid found in the stomach. You know the ones—throbbing headache, queasy stomach, and the worst: vomiting. These men reported drinking 27.6 ± 6.5 drinks/week with a diagnosis of alcohol abuse and/or alcohol dependence. This combination can also relieve leaky gut syndrome. Kudzu is an herb used in Chinese medicine to treat alcoholism, heart disease, menopausal symptoms, diabetes, fever, the common cold, and neck or eye pain. (1). Once federal payments ceased, the kudzu was quickly grazed and plowed under, with farmers having little success figuring out how to make money from it. How to use Kuzu Root? Kudzu root has a high concentration of isoflavones, which have been investigated by science for their health benefits. In alternative medicine, kudzu is typically used for the following conditions: 1. alcoholism 2. menopausal symptoms 3. diabetes 4. common cold 5. fever Not all of these uses are supported by clinical evidence. So, just to be safe, be sure to check with your doctor before you take kudzu out for a spin. And, it does come with a list of possible side effects, Beckerman says, including itchiness, upset stomach, dizziness, nausea, headache, fever, and even the possibility of red blood cells breaking inside blood vessels. Note that the numbers in parentheses (1, 2, etc.) Its popularity grew through planting contests and even a kudzu queen contest. Kudzu is an excellent herb which helps in the withdrawal of Addictions such as Alchohol, Cannabis, and Tobacco. “There are anti-inflammatory properties in kudzu, which may help reduce inflammation in the body,” Beckerman says. Well+Good decodes and demystifies what it means to live a well life, inside and out. The fiber in kuzu, in combination with the anti-inflammatory effects of umeboshi, are helpful in easing the symptoms of acute diverticulitis and irritable bowel syndrome. Make sure to learn more about kudzu root and how it may help you. Find helpful customer reviews and review ratings for Nature's Way Premium Herbal Kudzu Root, 1,226 mg per serving, 50 Capsules at Amazon.com. If pregnant, nursing or taking any medications, consult a healthcare professional before use. Additionally, the kudzu extract significantly increased the number of days with no alcohol, including consecutive days. It’s related to five species in the genus Pueraria (P. montana, P. lobata, P. edulis, P. phaseoloides and P. thomsoni). Top 10 Vitamin B5 Foods (Pantothenic Acid), Top 20 Anti-Inflammatory Herbs and How to Use Them. Trusted Source. While the benefits are promising, there are also downsides. “It’s a vine,” says Tracy Lockwood Beckerman, registered dietitian and in-house nutrition expert at Betches Media. We know that inflammation is a big cause of numerous diseases and the immediate go-to is typically an over-the-counter synthetic medication. 2.1 1. Simply grind up the roots and you will have an excellent gluten free flour to use for baking and other purposes. Apple Cider Vinegar Benefits and Uses (30! Kuzu is a high quality starch made from the root of the kudzu plant that grows wild in the mountains of Japan and in the southern region of the U.S. Kuzu is more expensive than arrowroot and is reputed to strengthen the digestive tract. According to research published in Oxidative Medicine and Cellular Longevity, subjects were given kudzu root, also known as Pueraria tuberosa, to see if it reduced inflammation. Because of its similarity to stomach mucus, kudzu can help counteract acid buildup in … This Dr. Axe content is medically reviewed or fact checked to ensure factually accurate information. All rights reserved. are clickable links to medically peer-reviewed studies. These antioxidant compounds give kudzu root a … Directions Take 2 capsules three times daily, preferably with food. Kudzu is native to Asia, particularly China, Japan and Korea, and has been used in Eastern medicine for centuries. The result may be that people who drink after taking kudzu have worse hangovers, or feel hangover symptoms earlier. (5), The Centre for Food Safety in Hong Kong indicates that the roots of Pueraria mirifica (also known as Thai kudzu), which has been consumed by native Thai for generations for relief of postmenopausal symptoms, works due to its phytoestrogen contents, including isoflavones, deoxymiroestrol and miroestrol. Phytochemicals occur naturally in plants, as a result of photosynthesis. It is sometimes used in combination with other herbs. Experts Unpack Longevity Secrets From 5 Different Cultures Around the Globe. It’s even been nicknamed “mile a minute vine” in traditional folk times. While there was no effect on the craving for alcohol, the kudzu extract actually reduced the number of drinks consumed each week by 34 percent to 57 percent and decreased the number of heavy drinking days. Kudzu antioxidants may have a modest effect on reduction of alcohol intake in humans; 2.3 3. Kudzu is a unique plant that may offer health benefits, but keep in mind that more research is needed to gain a better understanding of the benefits of kudzu root and this climbing plant as a whole. Advertisement. Kudzu root (Gegen in Chinese) is the dried root of Pueraria lobata (Willd.) The isoflavone puerarin is the most abundant antioxidant compound in the kudzu vine ( 6. Make sure you clearly identify it since it looks similar to poison ivy, and avoid kudzu that has been sprayed with pesticides or chemicals.