Kudzu
Scientific names: Pueraria lobata, P. mirifica, P. tuberose, P. thomsoniiCommon names: Kudzu also is known as Japanese arrowroot, kudzu vine, ge gen (Chinese), and kwaao khruea (Thai).
Efficacy-safety rating:
ÒÒ...Ethno or other evidence of efficacy.
Safety rating:
●...No safety concerns despite wide use.What is Kudzu?
Kudzu (also known as P. thunbergiana) is a fast-growing vine native to the subtropical regions of China and Japan. It has been used as fodder and as a ground cover crop. Because it produces long stems that may grow to 20 m in length and extensive roots, it has been used to control soil erosion. The plant was introduced into the US, where it has become established and proliferates particularly in the moist southern regions. It grows vigorously in the southern regions and now is considered a pest. The leaves of the plant contain broad, oval leaflets with purple flowers and curling tendril spikes.
What is Kudzu used for?
Traditional/Ethnobotanical usesAlthough kudzu has been widely recognized as a ground cover and fodder crop in the Western world, the plant has a lengthy history of medicinal use in Asian cultures. As far back as the 6th century BC, Chinese herbalists have used the plant for muscular pain and for the treatment of measles. Kudzu is cited in herbals from Japan, China, and Fiji. The Chinese also have used extracts of the plant for muscular aches and stiffness and to treat alcoholism. Animal studies regarding alcoholism show some promise, although research reveals no clinical data regarding the use of kudzu for alcoholism. Kudzu also has been used for cardiovascular disease. Preliminary studies on animals and humans indicate some potential. More studies are needed.
What is the dosage of Kudzu?
Kudzu root has been studied at a dose of 2.4 g/day in alcoholism.
Is Kudzu safe?
ContraindicationsContraindications have not yet been identified.
Pregnancy/nursingInformation regarding safety and efficacy in pregnancy and lactation is lacking. Avoid use.
InteractionsNone well documented.
Side EffectsKudzu has been used as a medicinal herb for centuries without any reported toxic side effects.
ToxicitiesNo known toxic effects; safety undefined.
References
- Kudzu. Review of Natural Products. factsandcomparisons4.0 [online]. 2004. Available from Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc. Accessed April 17, 2007.
Copyright © 2006 Wolters Kluwer Health
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