A single dose of kudzu extract reduces alcohol consumption in a binge drinking paradigm

In this double blind, placebo-controlled study participants were randomly assigned to receive either the low (0.35 g/kg) or high (0.7 g/kg) dose of alcohol (6 per group). Participants were treated for a total of 9 days with either kudzu extract or placebo. Day 8 always consisted of a placebo (orange juice only) drink challenge, while day 9 consisted of an alcohol drink challenge of either the high or low dose depending on group randomization.

For Patients & Caregivers

The PKCepsilon phosphorylation of γ2 regulates the response of GABAARs to specific allosteric modulators, and in particular, PKCepsilon inhibition renders these receptors sensitive to low concentrations of EtOH84. Thus, alcohol consumption at a social level can target GABAAR-mediated extrasynaptic inhibition; social drinking also appears to involve the mesolimbic dopamine system. Kudzu root has gained attention for its potential to reduce alcohol cravings. Research suggests that the isoflavones in kudzu may influence the brain’s reward system, making it less likely for individuals to consume excessive amounts of alcohol. However, individual responses may vary, and it is crucial to consult with a healthcare professional when seeking help with alcohol dependence. A total of 21 adult males (17 Caucasian, 1 African American, 2 Hispanic, 1 Middle Eastern; mean age 23.8 ± 3.46 years, range 21–33) were recruited through advertisements in local and college newspapers and flyers posted in the Boston area.

A single dose of kudzu extract reduces alcohol consumption in a binge drinking paradigm

Daidzin has been shown to inhibit hamster and rat mitochondrial aldehyde dehydrogenase (ALDH-2) in vitro and is a mixed inhibitor of the human enzyme (Keung et al., 1997). If isoflavones such as daidzin significantly increase acetaldehyde levels in humans in vivo, then this could be a possible mechanism of action. However, in a pilot toxicity study we found no change in acetaldehyde levels in kudzu-treated humans after drinking alcohol (unpublished data). The transient effects of subjective ratings of dizziness alone are insufficient to suggest the presence of a disulfiram-like effect as a result of kudzu administration. Thus, altered acetaldehyde metabolism is not a likely explanation for kudzu extract effects in humans.

Possibly Effective for

• Before incorporating kudzu root into your wellness routine, it is crucial to consult with a healthcare professional to determine the most appropriate dosage and ensure it is safe for your circumstances.
• 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.
• Kudzu is also known for its flower, which is used in traditional Chinese medicine to treat fever, headache, and other ailments.
• However, if you want to cut down on drinking or detoxify your body during alcohol withdrawal, this plant may be able to help.
• EtOH can produce an acute anxiolytic effect, which is related to the potentiation of GABAergic neurotransmission in the basolateral amygdala (BLA)69.

One Chinese herbal medicine, XJL (NPI-028), has long been used to reduce the inebriation that results from alcohol consumption. NPI-028 contains the extracts of several plants including Puerariae lobata (kudzu) and Citrus kudzu root alcohol reticulata, which have long been used to lower intoxication (Sun, 600). Rooke et al., (2000) has suggested that puerarin may block biogenic amine metabolic pathways, resulting in an alteration in central reward pathways.

Kudzu Root Side Effects

For this reason, it’s difficult to make recommendations for various uses. While kudzu root may offer a few specific benefits, there are also some potential downsides to consider. Small studies in people have observed noteworthy improvements in these menopausal symptoms, among others, like vaginal dryness (9, 10). Kudzu root is rich in antioxidants, compounds that protect cells from oxidative stress that can lead to disease.