Furthermore, it’s likely that the suggested doses for kudzu root will vary depending on the manufacturer and the type of supplement you may be considering. There isn’t much scientific evidence available on the dosing for kudzu root as a supplement. For this reason, it’s difficult to make recommendations for various uses. Kudzu root may increase the risk of liver injury or interact with certain medications, like birth control. Anecdotal sources say it may also be harmful to take with medications for diabetes or blood clotting.
Table of Contents
- The most important finding of the present study was that 4-weeks of treatment with a standardized kudzu extract reduced ad libitum alcohol consumption in a group of non treatment-seeking heavy drinkers.
- The study consisted of a 2-week baseline period, 4 weeks of medication (subjects were randomized to either kudzu extract or placebo treatments) and a 2-week follow up period.
- As a result of these effects, it may also help treat binge drinking patterns.
- The BDI for the kudzu extract-treated participants was 1.78 ± 2.11 and 2.63 ± 2.50 at baseline and during treatment, respectively.
- Overstreet et al.’s (1998) study provides cursory evidence that a taste aversion mechanism is not likely.
- Additional details and photos of the device can be found in Lukas et al. (2005).
- The kudzu plant is a vine that resembles poison ivy and is native to several Asian countries.
AlcoholAwareness.org provides a platform where you can access various free resources, including articles, self-assessment tools, and information about local support groups and treatment centers. These resources can be instrumental in guiding you toward effective strategies for overcoming alcoholism. Before embarking on a journey with kudzu as a potential remedy for alcoholism, it is crucial to consult with a healthcare professional. The absence of standardized dosages and recommended administration methods for kudzu necessitates expert guidance. Your healthcare provider can help determine the most suitable approach based on your unique circumstances.
- That being said, if you are able to remove lead from soil and water, then you have a better chance of growing safe foods on that land.
- Relieving Neck and Shoulder Tension 😙If you’re suffering from neck and back pain due to external factors like cold weather, drinking this tea can provide relief.
- Side/adverse effects also were tracked on a daily basis by entries in their diaries; items addressed a wide range of somatic complaints.
- Studies have found that the isoflavones in kudzu can help lower cholesterol levels and reduce blood pressure.
- But one use of kudzu root that has proven itself in several human trials is its ability to reduce cravings for alcohol.
Animal and in vitro data
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. Various studies have used single, one-time doses or daily doses for a week without reported adverse effects. Kudzu root may help treat alcohol dependence, liver damage, and menopausal symptoms. Scientists need to do more human studies to determine its effectiveness in other areas, like inflammation, heart health, and headaches.
Kudzu Extract Safety
More specifically, some have claimed kudzu provides great relief from the side effects of cyclical overdrinking. Such side effects that kudzu gives relief to are the hangover effects, a common affliction in people who struggle with alcohol addiction. Kudzu has been shown to be effective in reducing alcohol cravings and consumption in the short term.
2.1 Blood Alcohol Levels
Research is limited and the results are mixed, but strongly suggest that it’s possible. The kudzu has a thick, viscous consistency, similar to the gastric mucus, which coats the stomach and protects it from excess hydrochloric acid. Umeboshi plum, which is strongly alkaline, neutralizes the harmful effects of excess stomach acid. Together, they benefit the digestive system, even offering relief from stomach ulcers and heartburn. 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.
Other potential health benefits
One Chinese herbal medicine, XJL (NPI-028), has long been used to reduce the inebriation that results from alcohol consumption. NPI-028 contains the extracts of several plants including Puerariae lobata (kudzu) and Citrus reticulata, which have long been used to lower intoxication (Sun, 600). Rooke et al., (2000) has suggested that puerarin may block biogenic amine metabolic pathways, resulting in an alteration in central reward pathways. how to use kudzu for alcoholism In our most recent study (Penetar et al., 2011) we provided evidence that kudzu extract may alter blood ethanol levels after an acute drinking episode. In fact, we reported that kudzu extract did just that and interrupted binge drinking (Lukas et al., 2005).
A Standardized Kudzu Extract (NPI- Reduces Alcohol Consumption in Non Treatment-Seeking Male Heavy Drinkers
However, some people may experience mild side effects such as nausea, dizziness, and headache. It is important to consult with a healthcare professional before taking kudzu, especially if you are taking other medications or have underlying health conditions. As with any herbal supplement, it is essential to consult a healthcare professional before incorporating kudzu into one’s regimen, especially if taking medications or dealing with specific health conditions. Studies have found that the isoflavones in kudzu can help lower cholesterol levels and reduce blood pressure. Studies have shown that kudzu may work by increasing blood flow to the brain, reducing the desire to drink, and reducing the severity of hangovers.
- Endogenous levels of riboflavin are too low to fluoresce and participants were instructed to avoid multivitamin complexes while participating in the study.
- Data due to dropouts were handled as missing data and no values were entered.
- There is a good chance that the plant you spotted was kudzu and despite its invasive nature, it is actually very good for you.
- In addition, there is a growing body of evidence that kudzu may help menopausal women overcome their symptoms while it could also help treat inflammation and stomach upsets.
- Some studies indicate that the main ingredient in Kudzu that decreases alcohol consumption needs to be in a higher concentration than you would get from simply consuming the plant.
Research Studies
A number of modern researchers have also shown that Kudzu extract can be used to curb alcohol consumption in mice, monkeys, and hamsters. According to the National Council on Alcohol and Drug Dependency, there marijuana addiction are more than 100,000 American deaths per year as a result of alcohol abuse. Counseling, Alcoholics Anonymous and detoxification are helpful and often necessary treatments, but current alcohol medication resembles unpleasant aversion therapy.