Regardless of the actual mechanism of action, it is widely accepted that the isoflavones in kudzu are effective in reducing alcohol intake in a number of mammalian species. In some instances, even a single dose of kudzu extract reduced alcohol consumption and prevented binge drinking (4, 5). To preserve the double-blind, kudzu and placebo capsules were repacked into #00 opaque capsules (Apothecary Products, Minneapolis, MN).
If left unchecked, metabolic syndrome can increase your risk of developing heart disease, and type 2 diabetes. One study on 82 postmenopausal women notes that using a Pueraria mirifica (a particular species of kudzu) kudzu extract for alcoholism gel may improve symptoms of vaginal dryness. Another study shows that kudzu flower might be helpful to lessen hot flashes in menopausal women. It’s marketed as a treatment for alcoholism, diabetes, and inflammation.
5 Alcohol Consumption—Treatment Phase
It has been shown, for example, that the flowers can help speed the body’s removal of acetaldehyde, a toxic byproduct of the breakdown of alcohol in the blood that is responsible for many of the effects of hangovers. 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.
- The use of kudzu for alcoholism originated in China around 600 A.D.
- Dr. Neil McGregor has warned that the active components of Kudzu have been linked to cancer.
- In spite of the compelling preclinical and clinical evidence of its efficacy, the precise mechanism of action of kudzu in reducing alcohol consumption is not currently known.
- According to some studies, kudzu root may help manage some symptoms of metabolic syndrome.
Kudzu may help by reducing the urge to consume alcohol, making it easier to control cravings. This reduction in alcohol consumption can be particularly beneficial during the early stages of recovery when cravings are intense. 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. I will discuss how kudzu works, my experience with using powdered kudzu root for alcoholism, and recommendations for taking kudzu.
Kudzu and Alcohol: Is It Effective or Dangerous?
Many herbalists, including ourselves, believe a full well-rounded spectrum of botanical constituents is often most effective. Kudzu is a vine that is native to East Asia and is popular (as a starch) in Asian cooking. The roots and flowers of the kudzu plant are packed with an array of biologically active compounds that https://ecosoberhouse.com/ can have many beneficial effects; it’s often used as a hangover cure and to suppress cravings for alcohol. Kudzu has been shown to be effective in reducing alcohol cravings and consumption in the short term. However, more research is needed to determine its long-term effectiveness in promoting alcoholism recovery.
- A standardized formulation of kudzu extract produced minimal side effects, was well-tolerated and resulted in a modest reduction in alcohol consumption in young non treatment-seeking heavy drinkers.
- Furthermore, kudzu root has demonstrated potential benefits for heart health, diabetes management, antioxidant protection, and alleviating menopausal symptoms.
- Our laboratory has been involved in assessing an extract of the kudzu root (Pueraria lobata) for its ability to reduce alcohol consumption in humans.
My experience was limited to an experiment that I did years ago to see if taking the herb would reduce my drinking levels. Daily alcohol consumption has increased substantially in the past two years due to global events like the 2020 pandemic and the life-altering stress factors that came along with it. Although kudzu root can be used to make what is usually called « kudzu root starch », the most common arrowroot sold online is sourced from one of two non-kudzu related species, Maranta arundinacea and Manihot esculenta. Yes and no. « Arrowroot » is a generic term for a type of starch flour, similar to corn starch, that comes from the rhizome of several different plant species.
A single dose of kudzu extract reduces alcohol consumption in a binge drinking paradigm
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. For hundreds of years, practitioners of Chinese medicine have prescribed kudzu root for reducing alcohol intake.
With these steps and the practice of journaling, you’re not just working towards a drier January; you’re paving the way for a healthier, more mindful relationship with alcohol. Supplements are available as extracts in liquid, powder, capsules or tablet form. 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 as the most beneficial for phytotherapeutic purposes. The kudzu arrowroot or root starch that we purchased was in white cornstarch-like chunks rather than a fine powder. The roots have been repeatedly washed and filtered to condense the starch element and will dissolve and thicken when heated.
0 Comment