Kudzu Herbal Remedies
Kudzu is a nourishing herb used to alleviate diarrhea, allay thirst, and treat colds and can be effective added to ginger tea to alleviate nausea. It is also used to help relax stiff muscles. An extract from kudzu may reduce alcohol craving according to some modern clinical reports and laboratory tests. In Traditional Chinese Medicine the herb is used to hasten recovery from measles and to treat symptoms of hypertension such as headache, dizziness, and ringing in the ears. Kudzu contains substantial amounts of the dietary phytoestrogens genistein and daidzein, which have shown benefits for relieving hot flashes and slowing bone loss during and after menopause. These compounds are receiving increased interest for their cancer-protective and cardiovascular-protective effects. Kudzu has a taste of SWEET, ACRID and a temperature of COOL.
Kudzu Proper Dose
| Type | Dossage |
| Kudzu Decoction | 1 cup 2-3 x daily |
| Kudzu Extract | 1 to 2 tablets or capsules 2 x daily |
Kudzu Reference Information
| Latin Name | Pueraria lobata |
| Other Names | Mealy kudzu |
| Part Used | Root |
| Herb Forms | Bulk herb, powder, extracts in capsules and tablets. |
| Affects | Digestive system, Endocrine system, Integumentary system, Skeletal system |
| Cautions | None noted. |
| Botanical Info | A fast-growing hairy perennial vine of the Pea family with large tuberous roots and spikes of fragrant purplish pea flowers. |
Supporting Research
Leung, A. and S. Foster. 1996. Encyclopedia of Common Natural Ingredients. New York: J. Wiley & Sons.
McGuffin, M. et al. 1997. Botanical Safety Handbook. Boca Raton: CRC Press.
Bensky, D. and A. Gamble. 1986. Chinese Herbal Medicine. Seattle: Eastland Press.