Kudzu Benefits, Uses, Dosage and Side Effects

Naltrexone is effective to treat alcohol dependence (decreased length and frequency of drinking bouts), but its severe side effects, including withdrawal symptoms, are difficult to overcome. Acamprosate showed efficacy for treating alcohol dependence in European trials, but two large US trials have failed to confirm the efficacy. Another FDA-approved medication, disulfiram, does not diminish craving, and it causes a peripheral neuropathy. Kudzu is the only natural medication mentioned by the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, but its mechanisms of action are not yet established. It has been recently shown that dihydromyricetin, a flavonoid purified from Hovenia, has unique effects on GABAA receptors and blocks ethanol intoxication and withdrawal in alcoholic animal models. In this article, we review the role of GABAA receptors in the treatment of AUD and currently available and potentially novel pharmacological agents.

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In terms of what I felt when I took this plant, my experience supports the observations of others who note that it might act like a much gentler form of disulfiram or Antabuse. Even a tiny amount of alcohol can cause violent illness while on these drugs. By contrast, kudzu creates a mild flushed feeling at most and leaves the drinker craving alcohol a bit less. My problem at the time was a denial of the severity of my drinking problem. But as soon as the capsules ran out, I concluded that it hadn’t totally “cured” my problem and that I would eventually find something better. I will discuss how it works, my experience with using powdered kudzu root for alcoholism, and recommendations.

Dosage and Administration

The flowers have been used to treat the problems caused by alcohol drinking due to their ability to enhance acetaldehyde removal 40. In addition, the flowers of kudzu exerted protective effects against alcohol-induced apoptosis in human neuroblastoma cells 43. Another study conducted in 2013, also by David M Penetar and his colleagues5, evaluated the efficacy and safety of kudzu extract in men and women who were not seeking treatment for alcohol addiction. The study included around 4 weeks of treatment in which kudzu was administered with an marijuana addiction isoflavone concentration of 250mg.

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While more research is needed, kudzu’s long history in traditional medicine speaks to its safety and value. Kudzu may also stabilize blood sugar levels, avoiding the spikes and crashes that lead to cravings. Kudzu offers an effective way to boost the body’s natural defenses against oxidative stress. The kudzu vine’s wide range of benefits makes it a promising plant for improving heart health and supporting overall wellness. Stores typically sell it as a powdered drink mix, an oral capsule or tablet, liquid drops, or as a food-grade starch to use in cooking.

• One reason for these negative result may be that the substance daidzin present in the plant is less effective in its purified form and kudzu is more effective when used in its natural state.
• All other authors declare that they have no actual or potential conflict of interest that could inappropriately influence, or be perceived to influence, this work.
• 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.
• While kudzu root has a long history in traditional Chinese medicine, people most often use it to help treat alcohol dependence.
• Second, there is an approved intravenous preparation of puerarin which is used in China to reduce myocardial oxygen consumption and improve cardiac microcirculation (Yue and Hu, 1996; Zhang et al., 2006).

2 Materials and Medication

One study in mice found that taking 10 mg per day of kudzu root extract for 4 weeks caused liver toxicity (15). The participants reported their desire for and consumption of alcohol for the duration of the study. Researchers found that the kudzu extract had no effect on alcohol cravings, but it reduced the number of weekly alcoholic drinks by 34–57% (2).

Common Side Effects

Acamprosate (Campral) is thought to stabilize the chemical balance in the brain that would otherwise be disrupted by alcoholism, possibly by antagonizing glutamatergic N-methyl-D-aspartate receptors and agonizing GABAARs134. A study at the molecular and cellular level suggests that acamprosate attenuates hyper-glutamatergic states, which are thought to trigger relapse135. Two large US trials failed to confirm the efficacy of acamprosate, although secondary analyses in one of the studies suggested possible efficacy in patients who had a baseline goal of abstinence136,137. The most common side effects reported for patients taking acamprosate in clinical trials included headache, diarrhea, flatulence, and nausea139,140. Asparagus officinalis, a popular vegetable, is consumed widely and has long been used as an herbal medicine to several diseases. Asparagus officinalis is applied for alleviating hangover and protecting liver cells from alcohol toxic.

Studies of kudzu in humans are limited and have mostly focused on whether it can reduce alcohol intake or menopausal symptoms. 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. Today, kudzu is used to kudzu and alcohol treat alcoholism and to reduce symptoms of alcohol hangover, including headache, upset stomach, dizziness, and vomiting.

• Hot-water extract cleared 44% of the plasma alcohol while the n-butanol fraction eliminated around 70% in mice.
• It presents potential advantages that consistently pique the interest of those inquisitive about health and wellness.
• For those seeking better sleep quality and relaxation, a combination of Kudzu and Valerian may prove beneficial.
• Understanding the underlying mechanisms leading to AUD is critically important for developing effective and safe pharmacological therapies.

8 Other Effects

As they embarked on a journey to understand Kudzu’s potential in curbing alcohol cravings, they designed studies, conducted experiments, and collected data. Beyond the isoflavones, Kudzu houses a myriad of other compounds such as tectoridin and kakkalide. While their roles in alcohol consumption are less documented, they contribute to the overall therapeutic potential of the root, especially in other areas of health 2. Long before it made its way into contemporary conversations, Kudzu Root had cemented its place in traditional Chinese medicine. Known as “Ge Gen” in Mandarin, this root was believed to possess a myriad of healing properties.

What are peoples thoughts on Kudzu supplements for alcohol dependency?

Interestingly, Kudzu has also been studied for its potential in reducing alcohol cravings and dependence. Some research suggests that Kudzu may help individuals reduce their alcohol intake, making it a subject of interest in addiction treatment programs. While many participants showed a reduction in alcohol consumption and reported lower cravings, not all studies replicated these findings consistently.

Assessments were performed after completion of the questionnaires at 30, 45, and 60 minutes after start of alcohol administration; after 1 hour, stance stability was assessed every 30 minutes until the end of the session at 3 hours. 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. Research has found that kudzu can help reduce hot flashes and night sweats, as well as improve sleep quality. This may be due to the isoflavones https://ecosoberhouse.com/ in kudzu, which can help regulate hormone levels. Research has found that kudzu can help improve insulin sensitivity, which can help regulate blood sugar levels.