A Single Dose of Kudzu Extract Reduces Alcohol Consumption in a Binge Drinking Paradigm PMC
The root of the Kudzu plant has been used for centuries in Chinese medicine to treat a variety of ailments, including alcoholism. The root contains isoflavones, a compound that has been shown to reduce alcohol consumption in rats. Kudzu root extract is now widely used in the United States as a natural remedy for alcoholism. In clinical application, there are three main dosage forms, including injection, capsule and tablet (Wang et al., 2006). Injection is used widely in China for the treatment of coronary heart disease, angina pectoris, cardiac infarction, obstruction of retinal artery and vein, sudden deafness, cerebrovascular diseases, viral myocarditis and diabetes.
A Remedy for Heart Disease
Kudzu root is rich in antioxidants, compounds that protect cells from oxidative stress that can lead to disease. The isoflavone puerarin is the most abundant antioxidant compound in the kudzu vine (6). Today, the most popular ways to use kudzu root are as an herbal supplement or a root tea. This article examines the benefits, uses, and potential side effects of kudzu root.
- The kudzu root may interact with certain medications or pose other health risks for certain people.
- Before embarking on a journey with kudzu as a potential remedy for alcoholism, it is crucial to consult with a healthcare professional.
- The kudzu plant is a vine that resembles poison ivy and is native to several Asian countries.
- This information does not endorse this product as safe, effective, or approved for treating any patient or health condition.
- Anti-inflammatory properties are attributed to decreased prostaglandin E2 and tumor necrosis factor-alpha release, both of which are involved in inflammatory processes (3).
- Another report suggests that taking kudzu root by mouth might cause liver damage.
- In heavy drinkers, data suggest kudzu may be a useful adjunct to reduce alcohol intake (9) (19) (23).
Potential downsides
- When this occurs, nausea, facial flushing, and general discomfort soon follow.
- Taking kudzu along with diabetes medications might cause your blood sugar to go too low.
- Tell your healthcare providers about any dietary supplements you’re taking, such as herbs, vitamins, minerals, and natural or home remedies.
- However, all of these studies enrolled small numbers of patients, and systematic reviews have determined that the evidence of benefit for any condition is unclear.
- Another double-blind study, which lasted for a month and included 38 subjects with alcoholism, found no improvement when kudzu was administered, compared with the control group.
These resources can be instrumental in guiding you toward effective strategies for overcoming alcoholism. Reach out to healthcare providers, counselors, and support groups to develop a comprehensive treatment plan tailored to your needs. Remember that every individual’s journey to recovery is unique, and what works for one person may not work for another. For those seeking help with alcohol addiction, valuable resources are available online. One such resource is AlcoholAwareness.org, which offers a wealth of information, support, and guidance for individuals and their families dealing with alcoholism. Research has found that kudzu can help improve insulin sensitivity, which can help regulate blood sugar levels.
N. Engl. J. Med.
No side effects have been reported in clinical studies when kudzu is taken by mouth. There is, however, one case report of allergic reaction following use of a combination herbal product containing kudzu (Kakkonto). Another report suggests that taking kudzu root by mouth might cause liver damage. Your doctor can evaluate your medical history, current health, and the severity of your alcoholism to provide personalized recommendations.
The kudzu plant resembles poison ivy, so it’s important to know how to identify it correctly. The easiest way to lookup drug information, identify pills, check interactions and https://ecosoberhouse.com/article/alcohol-neuropathy-symptoms-and-treatment/ set up your own personal medication records. Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.
Some brand manufacturers provide either a standardized extract (with a percentage of isoflavones) or offer ratio proportions used. Kudzu extract supplements, however, are prepared to concentrate the bioactive ISOFLAVONES, which are viewed kudzu to stop drinking as the most beneficial for phytotherapeutic purposes. All arrowroot, including kudzu arrowroot, have similar properties that mix well into heated liquids and act as thickening agents for things like sauces, gravies and desserts.
- 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.
- While it does not quite make the cut, it is definitely worth trying if you’re looking to cut down on or quit drinking.
- The kudzu plant actually produces fragrant, purple blossoms, which are made into jellies, syrups and candies.
- 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.
- Dried root of P. thomsonii is often used interchangeably with dried root of P. lobata in clinical TCM practice (Luo et al., 2007).
In recent years, it has gained attention for its potential use in treating alcoholism. Kudzu contains compounds that are believed to reduce alcohol cravings and help with withdrawal symptoms. During the baseline session, the placebo-randomized group consumed 2.7 ± 0.78 beers before treatment and increased consumption to 3.4 ± 1.1 beers after treatment. The kudzu group significantly reduced consumption from 3.0 ± 1.7 at baseline to 1.9 ± 1.3 beers after treatment.
2 Materials and Medication
