Have you ever seen this plant overtaking a whole tree or an electric pole?
Did you wonder what use can this plant possibly have?
Alcoholism is one of the serious, unaddressed health problems in the United States with 10% of the adult population being affected, approximately 18 million people.
There are herbs and oils that can help with alcoholism and hangovers but nothing specific than the herb, kudzu (Pueraria lobata, and root of Pueraria thomsonii).
What is kudzu?
Known as “ge-gen” in Chinese medicine, first mentioned in the ancient herbal text of Shen Nong (circa A.D. 100). In China, it is “xing jiu ling” which translates to “sober up”. Native to southern Japan, brought to America and was called “the plant that ate the South” or “one mile vine”, growing 12 inches a day.
The leaves can be eaten raw, flowers dipped in batter and fried, the root eaten as any vegetable. The root can be made into a starch to thicken soups and make noodles, thus also called “Japanese arrowroot”. The stems can be used as a fiber to make cloth and paper, called kokemp.
Why this herb?
Modern research of kudzu came from the historical use to treat drunkenness. Traditionally, the flowers are used to treat intoxication, hangover and increased rate of alcohol clearance from the body. The root is thought to slow down the liver’s ability to breakdown alcohol and not a cure for hangover. It is best used in its natural state like a tea and not purified.
Researchers in Indiana University found that kudzu is high in isoflavone, daidzen and isoflavone glycoside, daidzin and puererin, that help suppress alcohol intake and withdrawal. These compounds alter the enzymes that breaks down alcohol in the liver, resulting in the build up of acetaldehyde, an alcoholic by-product. It is responsible for causing facial redness, nausea ad general discomfort. These work in the same way as the drug Anatabuse (disulfiram), a medicine used to help control alcoholism. But without too much nausea, although both causes discomfort in intoxication.
Human controlled study was conducted with “heavy alcohol drinkers” for seven days receiving kudzu extract and placebo. They found that the group taking kudzu extract showed a reduction in the number of beers consumed, increased number of sips and a decrease in volume of each sip, with no side effects. Another 1993 study with rodents showed that both daidzin and daidzein restrain the enzyme vital to metabolizing alcohol. It helps regenerate liver tissue while protecting against toxins, with 100 times more antioxidant than vitamin E.
Conclusion
Alcoholism is a multifactorial issue, affecting an individual and the whole family structure. It has to be noted that the factors causing it has to be addressed in conjunction with the individual’s willingness to change and the support they need to overcome such addiction as this did not just happen overnight. It has to be substantiated with strength to overcome daily challenges until the desired change is achieved. The herb may help but still consult the guidance of health professionals.
