Kudzu not a pest in ancient medicine

In the southeastern United States, kudzu is known as a pesky weed that can grow up to a foot a day during summer. The vine was introduced from Asia in the late 1800s, and until about 50 years ago it was a popular prescription for controlling soil erosion. Kudzu’s enormous root has been used medicinally in China for thousands of years.

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Uses: In traditional Chinese medicine, kudzu is prescribed for allergies, migraines, angina and muscle pain. Some alternative medicine practitioners recommend it as a cure for hangovers and as a treatment for alcoholism, arteriosclerosis and high blood pressure. The root is also used in some supplements designed to prevent hot flashes and osteoporosis.

Dose: Most manufacturers recommend one or two 30- to 300-milligram capsules three times a day. Kudzu is available as fresh root, tablets (made from dried root) and liquid root extract.

Precautions: People with diabetes should be aware that high doses of kudzu may cause blood sugar to drop. Kudzu also increases the time blood takes to clot, so people on blood-thinning drugs should exercise caution when taking it.

Research: Some of the chemicals in kudzu are known to block enzymes that break down alcohol in the body, thereby keeping blood alcohol levels low. But it is still unclear whether kudzu is an effective treatment for alcohol dependency in people. Lab studies show the root can promote bone formation, but again the root’s efficacy in humans has yet to be fully demonstrated. Several human studies are underway.

Dietary supplement makers are not required by the U.S. government to demonstrate that their products are safe or effective. Ask your healthcare provider for advice on selecting a brand.

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-- Elena Conis