During the baseline session, the placebo-randomized group consumed 2.7 ± 0.78 beers before treatment and increased consumption to 3.4 ± 1.1 beers after treatment. The kudzu group significantly reduced consumption from 3.0 ± 1.7 at baseline to 1.9 ± 1.3 beers after treatment. The placebo-treated group opened 33 beers during baseline conditions and 38 following treatment whereas the kudzu-treated group opened 32 beers during baseline conditions and only 21 following treatment.
Potential downsides
Kudzu extracts like puerarin have been looked at for their potential to modulate the release of dopamine in certain brain regions. Kudzu may influence the dopamine receptors, especially D2 receptors. These are involved in the regulation of the brain’s reward pathways. There are emotional and psychological contributors to cravings, including stress, depression and anxiety, which can lead to using alcohol as a way to self-medicate.
- These are involved in the regulation of the brain’s reward pathways.
- Kudzu root extract has been studied for the potential to reduce symptoms related to alcohol use and to reduce oral alcohol consumption.
- And, contrary to disulfiram treatment, the drinking that did occur after kudzu administration did not result in any noxious side effects, increases in subjective ratings of nausea, uncomfortable, or feeling terrible.
- The amount of alcohol consumed was calculated for each group (1 unit per drink of beer or spirits, 1.6 units per glass of wine).
Other Health Benefits of Kudzu Extract
Until the effects of kudzu can be quantified properly in a larger study, then, and a standardised product is available on the market with the THR mark, it’s not something we can recommend you take. We found that, on average, each person consumed 7 units of alcohol after the placebo and, on average, 5.5 units after the kudzu. However, these studies were conducted on lone individuals drinking within highly controlled laboratory conditions. The root in particular is valued for its medicinal properties, and the beneficial effects are thought be down to a group of compounds found in high concentrations within the plant, called isoflavones.
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- Kudzu is a natural remedy that has been used for centuries in traditional Chinese medicine.
- The risk for them increases (often linearly but sometimes exponentially) as you increase the dose.
- Pueraria lobata, also known as kudzu, is an adaptogenic herb with a long history of use for reducing the intensity of migraines and hangovers.
- While it does not quite make the cut, it is definitely worth trying if you’re looking to cut down on or quit drinking.
Please seek professional care if you believe you may have a condition. In this article, I’m going to discuss how to use kudzu recovery for alcoholism. Kudzu is an invasive weed that has also been used to treat alcoholism for well over one thousand years. Ultimately, a comprehensive approach to drug addiction treatment health and well-being, including evidence-based treatments, remains paramount. Research has found that kudzu can help improve insulin sensitivity, which can help regulate blood sugar levels.
- The information on our site is for informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
- For alcoholics, Kudzu is definitely worth trying, especially given the fact there is no risk involved.
- Additional details and photos of the device can be found in Lukas et al. (2005).
- However, if you want to cut down on drinking or detoxify your body during alcohol withdrawal, this plant may be able to help.
- Alcohol cravings are influenced by a combination of factors, which are often physiological, psychological and environmental.
How much is too much body fat?
I did not know at the time that people also use it to treat kudzu and alcohol alcohol withdrawal symptoms; nor did I care, because I did not intend to quit at the time. While kudzu can help you cut back on your drinking, if you believe that you’re alcohol-dependent or you’re struggling with addiction, you should talk to a professional. Kudzu won’t help alcohol withdrawal symptoms, which can ultimately be deadly.
