Kudzu

Kudzu is available in capsule form, with varying concentrations, commonly between 400 and 600 mg of Kudzu root extract per capsule. 

Commercial products, such as Swanson's Kudzu Root Full Spectrum (500 mg) or Nature's Way Kudzu Secom (613 mg), offer standardized extracts or blends of kudzu root powder and extract, are suitable for vegan or vegetarian diets, and are formulated without genetically modified organisms.

The main therapeutic indications for Kudzu root supplements include:

• Reducing the compulsive desire to consume alcohol or nicotine, being used in integrative protocols for withdrawal;
• Combating the accumulation of toxins in the liver, especially in the context of chronic alcohol consumption or hepatotoxic drugs;
• Supporting emotional and nervous balance, with beneficial effects in states of anxiety, irritability, or mild depression;
• Adjuvant support in menopausal disorders, due to its content of isoflavones with weak estrogenic action.

The usual recommended dose for adults is 1-2 capsules per day for supplements containing 500 mg of Kudzu root (e.g., Swanson). It is best taken with a glass of water during a meal.

The duration of treatment may vary depending on the therapeutic objective (reducing alcohol consumption, liver or nervous system support) and medical recommendations, with breaks between treatments being recommended.

Kudzu extract is contraindicated in the following situations:

• Pregnant or breastfeeding women
• People with hypersensitivity to plants of the Fabaceae family
• Patients undergoing chronic drug treatment (including antidepressants, anxiolytics, antihypertensives) – without medical advice
• Patients with coagulation disorders
• Patients with hormone-dependent conditions (uterine fibroids, uterine cancer, breast cancer, ovarian cancer)

Kudzu extract acts on the nervous system, facilitating a more stable emotional response and reducing the need for alcohol or tobacco. This action may be useful in integrative treatments for withdrawal, where Kudzu can be combined with other substances for a synergistic effect on mood and mental stability.

People with severe conditions such as liver or kidney disease should seek medical advice before taking Kudzu.

Kudzu is generally well tolerated, but mild to moderate side effects may occur, such as:

• Gastrointestinal disorders (nausea, bloating, diarrhea);
• Headache;
• Drowsiness or dizziness;
• Allergic skin reactions in sensitive individuals.

Kudzu may interact with certain drugs such as:

• Hepatotoxic drugs (paracetamol, statins, methotrexate), potentiating liver toxicity in case of concomitant overdose;
• Sedative drugs (benzodiazepines, antidepressants)
• Anticoagulant drugs

It is recommended to avoid alcohol consumption while using the product to avoid possible adverse reactions or liver toxicity.

Excessive consumption of Kudzu extract may cause:

• Persistent digestive disorders (diarrhea, nausea);
• Marked drowsiness;
• Hormonal imbalances due to excessive intake of isoflavones.

In case of overdose, it is recommended to stop administration immediately and contact a doctor.

The product should be stored at room temperature, in its original packaging, in a dry place, away from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children. The expiry date is indicated on the packaging and should not be exceeded. 

• WebMD, Kudzu
• Healthline, Kudzu Root: Benefits, Uses, and Side Effects
• ScienceDirect, Kudzu Root: Traditional Uses and Potential Medicinal Benefits in Diabetes and Cardiovascular Disease
• PubMed, A Standardized Kudzu Extract (NPI-031) Reduces Alcohol Consumption in Male Drinkers Not Seeking Treatment