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Kudzu is another plant with medicinal uses. Its specific properties have long been valued, especially in Japan and China. However, it is not as popular in Poland, and unjustly so. The enormous amount of active ingredients in the root of this plant has a truly broad spectrum of action. In addition, it can be extremely helpful in treating all kinds of addictions. This property has been proven by numerous studies, but it is not entirely clear why this is so. This and many other factors make kudzu a rather mysterious plant. We invite you to read on.
Kudzu - general information
The full name of kudzu is patch-resistant. It belongs to the legume family and was originally found only in Western Asia. However, its hardy vines and ease of cultivation have spread kudzu almost all over the world. Originally, kudzu, or rather its fiber, was used in the textile industry due to its good price-performance ratio. In addition, this fiber was widely used to make rigging on sailing ships. Kudzu is a vine that grows very fast. After being introduced to numerous countries in Europe and America, it has become a dangerous invasive species. Due to its minimal soil and weather requirements, it is very difficult to eradicate. The vine grows up to 30 centimeters tall, while the root itself can reach a diameter of up to 20 centimeters and weigh up to 120 kilograms! In the 19th century, it was used as fodder for livestock, especially in the USA, due to the aforementioned growth rate and ease of cultivation. The root of this plant is also a valuable source of active ingredients. Nearly 70 chemically active substances have been identified in it, most of which, with careful testing, can be used in pharmacology. These include isoflavonoids, active aromatic compounds, and antioxidants.
Kudzu - Influence on alcohol addiction and more
Anti-addiction is the hallmark of this plant. Interestingly, scientists have not yet been able to determine this exact mechanism. Currently, it is based on various hypotheses, but nevertheless, this property of kudzu is fully proven. Chemical compounds contained in the root, especially flavonoids. Substances such as puerarin, daidzein or daidzin contribute significantly to the reduction of alcohol consumption. Two hypotheses as to why this happens seem to be the most accurate. The first deals with the fact that the substances contained in kudzu root inhibit the synthesis of acetaldehyde in the liver. It is a compound formed from ethyl alcohol that is responsible, among other things, for its toxic effects and the appearance of the popular hangover. The second hypothesis concerns the action of these isoflavonoids. They can have a similar effect on our body as alcohol. This applies in particular to the release of serotonin and dopamine, the happiness hormones. Supposedly, thanks to this property, an alcoholic no longer seeks satisfaction in drinking because these hormones are activated by the aforementioned isoflavonoids. Thanks to this, kudzu root is slowly becoming an effective treatment for alcoholism. Therapy is still an alternative form, but despite this, the effects are very satisfactory. This plant can not only serve as a substitute for alcohol, but also has other properties that are especially useful in this disease. It can provide carbohydrates, minerals, and detoxify. Studies have shown that the desire to drink alcohol in sick people decreased significantly during the first week of using kudzu extracts. At the same time, ethanol withdrawal did not cause withdrawal symptoms because kudzu regulates the level of happiness hormones in the brain. The experiment showed that during the first week of therapy, the amount of alcohol consumed by the subjects decreased by almost 40 percent. The effectiveness of this plant is also used in addiction treatment for tobacco smokers and those taking psychoactive substances. We're talking about cocaine, amphetamines, and heroin. Kudzu generally works so well in treating these addictions by regulating the amount of hormones in the brain.
Kudzu - anti-stress and regulating properties
Kudzu extracts can perfectly act in a calming and soothing role. They influence the physiology of stress and relieve its symptoms. This is due to the isoflavones contained in the root. In addition, they also act as a natural hormone regulator. This is especially important during menopause in women. Genistein, which is contained in kudzu root, acts similarly to estrogen. It allows you to cope with the ailments typical of this time. These include hot flashes, mood swings, bone loss, and dizziness. In addition, kudzu root can also help regulate the menstrual cycle. In this regard, it is especially popular in Asian countries.
Other properties of Kudzu
Although its anti-addiction properties are kudzu's most powerful weapon, it also has other benefits. It has been shown to help reduce the incidence of prostate cancer. Genistein, found in kudzu root, has an affinity for inhibiting the excessive activity of male hormones. As a result, the influence of these androgens on the onset of this disease is less pronounced. Kudzu extract may also be helpful in reducing the likelihood of developing many other types of cancer. Genistein also has properties that inhibit the development of the blood vessel network. This is especially important because a developing cancerous tumor requires a large amount of nutrients, which are supplied via the blood vessels, to grow. In addition, the substances contained in kudzu root are powerful antioxidants. This means they help reduce the harmful effects of free radicals on our bodies. This includes the induction of cancerous processes, but also accelerated aging of the body. In addition, Kudzu can reduce the adverse effects of some cancer-causing viruses.
Kudzu - Dosage
There's no single correct method for dosing Ku Dzu . It all depends on the desired effect. Those who simply want to use it ad hoc to boost immunity or take advantage of other health-promoting properties should use Kudzu for 7 to 14 days. Of course, we're talking about a course of therapy. To do this, add one teaspoon of powdered Kudzu root to a glass of water, juice, or tea. Then boil the mixture for 5-7 minutes and drink it cooled. However, as a therapeutic agent in the treatment of various addictions, including alcohol, a somewhat more concentrated solution should be used. Dissolve approximately 20 grams of root powder in 50 milliliters of water. This is how Kudzu root is most effective. Kudzu preparations are also available in tablet form, but it is most effective in solution form. It should also be remembered that alcohol should not be consumed during this therapy, as it increases the risk of esophageal cancer. The therapy should last from 2 weeks to several months, but cases of use over several years are also known.
Kudzu - Contraindications
It should be noted that kudzu preparations have long been popular and are considered relatively safe to use. However, we recommend consulting a doctor before starting therapy. Furthermore, the use of this plant by pregnant and breastfeeding women should be strictly limited. Kudzu is also not recommended for patients taking anticoagulants, as it enhances their effects. The same applies to people struggling with various hormonal disorders. Examples include endometriosis, breast cancer, and ovarian cancer. Kudzu has estrogen-like effects and is not recommended in these cases.
Summary
Kudzu is a truly interesting plant. Its properties for supporting the treatment of various addictions are truly exceptional. Kudzu preparations are also worth using to prevent the onset of various types of cancer. However, let's remember the recommendations for its use, as well as situations in which its use is not recommended. When using active ingredients, one should always use common sense and consult a doctor when in doubt.
