Description
Kudzu, also known as oporica or patch lead (Latin: Pueraria lobata), is a plant whose medicinal properties and beneficial effects have long been appreciated in the Far East. In China and Japan, kudzu has found use in the form of aqueous infusions of powdered root and dry alcoholic extracts to treat a variety of conditions, such as diabetes, flu, fever, nausea, migraine, allergies and upper respiratory infections. In addition, kudzu root can help lower elevated blood pressure and relieve gastrointestinal complaints. Recently, it was discovered that kudzu root can also help in the fight against alcohol addiction.
Studies on kudzu root vs. alcoholism have shown that the extract from this root has the ability to reduce the amount of ethanol consumed. This phenomenon can be attributed to the presence of flavonoid compounds such as daidzin, daidzein and puerarin. For example, a study on alcohol-dependent rats showed that administration of kudzu root extract at a dose of 500 mg/kg body weight via the oral route for 21 days reduced ethanol intake by 82% for a 10% alcohol solution¹.
The theory of kudzu root’s anti-alcoholic properties has been confirmed in human studies. In an experiment conducted on 14 volunteers from a group of “heavy drinkers” (alcohol abusers), using a special kudzu extract (500 mg capsules), it was found that after 7 days of using it, the amount of alcohol (in this case, beer) drunk was reduced by about 40%.
There are several theories attempting to explain kudzu’s anti-alcohol effects, including its ability to stop the conversion of ethanol alcohol to the acetaldehyde stage. The latter compound, known for its high toxicity, is responsible for the symptoms of alcohol poisoning and commonly known as a hangover.
However, there is another theory. Alcohol, like other stimulants, stimulates the secretion of “happiness hormones” such as dopamine and serotonin in the brain. The compounds in kudzu, especially genistein, have a similar effect, causing feelings similar to those after alcohol consumption. As a result, the person does not feel the need to reach for the actual stimulant.
This mechanism suggests that kudzu root extracts may find use not only in the fight against alcohol addiction, but also against drug and nicotine addiction. In addition, such a preparation can alleviate hangover symptoms.
Kudzu root shows potential for preventing prostate cancer. Thanks to its genistein content, which binds to androgen receptors, the root inhibits the activity of male hormones such as testosterone and dihydrotestosterone, significantly reducing the stimulating effect of androgens on the process of prostate cancer development. In the presence of genistein, a significant decrease in PSA (Prostate-specific antigen – a tumor marker present in patients’ blood) levels is observed, by as much as 50-80 percent.
In addition, kudzu root can counteract the development of other types of cancer by inhibiting the process of angiogenesis, or the formation of new blood vessels that provide cancer cells with the necessary ingredients for growth. Genistein and other isoflavonoids in kudzu root help remove free radicals from the body, which protects against oxidative stress, a known contributor to cancer development. In addition, kudzu has been shown to inhibit the growth of carcinogenic viruses.
The genistein found in kudzu root not only can counteract the development of cancer, but also has the ability to alleviate menopausal symptoms. This compound acts similarly to estrogen, a hormone whose levels drop during menopause in women. Kudzu root is an effective support in combating menopause-related discomforts such as hot flashes, loss of bone mass and dizziness. In addition, it can help reduce the risk of heart disease, which women are prone to during menopause.
Kudzu root is NOT suitable for:
- Pregnant and lactating women (no data available on the safety of use in these cases).
- People taking anticoagulants (kudzu can enhance the effects of these drugs).
- People suffering from hormone-dependent diseases (due to estrogen-like effects), such as endometriosis, breast cancer or ovarian cancer.
Summary
Kudzu is a fascinating plant whose ability to support addiction treatment and its potential to prevent various types of cancer are remarkable. Kudzu preparations can also be useful for preventive purposes. However, keep in mind that the use of kudzu requires adherence to the recommendations for use and consideration of contraindications. When dealing with active substances, it is always a good idea to use common sense and, if in any doubt, consult a doctor or phytotherapist.
store in the refrigerator 4-8C temp.
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