What are the functions and benefits of raw Pueraria root (Ge Gen)?

Generally speaking, the effects and functions of raw Kudzu root (Pueraria lobata) include clearing heat and detoxifying the body, uplifting yang energy to stop diarrhea, relieving muscle tension and expelling superficial pathogens, promoting body fluid production to relieve thirst, and promoting circulation to relieve obstruction in the meridians. It is recommended to use under the guidance of a qualified traditional Chinese medicine practitioner. Detailed explanations are as follows:

1. Clearing Heat and Detoxification

Raw Kudzu root is cold in nature and enters the lung and stomach meridians, possessing functions of clearing heat and detoxifying. It can be used to treat symptoms such as headache, fever, and thirst caused by wind-heat, and also effectively alleviates various discomforts caused by excessive internal heat.

2. Uplifting Yang and Stopping Diarrhea

Uplifting yang refers to enhancing the body's yang energy and strengthening the body's resistance. Raw Kudzu root helps to elevate the yang energy of the spleen and stomach and has certain therapeutic effects on diarrhea caused by spleen deficiency and damp-heat dysentery. By uplifting yang energy, it restores the transforming and transporting functions of the spleen and stomach, thereby achieving the effect of stopping diarrhea.

3. Relieving Muscle Tension and Expelling Superficial Pathogens

Raw Kudzu root has the effect of releasing exterior pathogens. It is commonly used to treat symptoms such as muscle aches and joint pain caused by external contraction of cold or wind-heat. It can promote sweat gland secretion, helping the body expel pathogenic factors through sweat, thus achieving the purpose of relieving exterior syndromes.

4. Promoting Body Fluid Production and Relieving Thirst

Raw Kudzu root can promote the production of body fluids and can be used to treat thirst caused by fluid depletion due to heat-related diseases, alleviating conditions such as dry mouth and excessive thirst. It has certain fluid-generating effects whether the fluid damage is caused by external heat diseases or chronic internal disorders.

5. Promoting Circulation and Relieving Obstruction in the Meridians

Raw Kudzu root can be used to treat conditions such as bi syndrome (painful obstruction syndrome), stroke with hemiplegia, and chest obstruction with heart pain. It helps to unblock the meridians and improve symptoms such as limb numbness, pain, and impaired mobility caused by poor circulation of qi and blood.

When using raw Kudzu root, the appropriate dosage should be taken according to individual conditions, following medical advice to ensure safety and effectiveness. At the same time, maintaining a light diet is recommended to support overall health.