The Efficacy, Functions, and Methods of Consumption of Kudzu Root
May 15, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yu Yongchao
Introduction
Pueraria root (Ge Gen) has a pungent and cool property that resolves exterior syndromes, effectively dispelling pathogenic factors on the body surface and relieving accumulated heat through perspiration. It is commonly used to treat symptoms such as fever due to exogenous pathogens, headache, and stiffness and pain in the neck and back, particularly suitable for cases accompanied by thirst, as it can alleviate discomfort caused by fever. This herb can also stimulate the ascending of clear qi from the spleen and stomach, promote the distribution of body fluids, and thereby relieve thirst. It is indicated for excessive thirst and polydipsia caused by fluid impairment due to febrile diseases or diabetes mellitus.
The effects and benefits of Kudzu root typically include relieving muscle fever, promoting saliva production to quench thirst, uplifting yang energy to stop diarrhea, promoting blood circulation to remove meridian blockages, and alleviating the toxic effects of alcohol. It can be consumed by mixing kudzu powder, making soup, cooking porridge, brewing tea, or preparing desserts.
I. The Effects and Benefits of Kudzu Root
1. Relieves Muscle Fever: Kudzu root has a pungent and cool nature, which helps dispel superficial pathogens and allows internal heat to dissipate through perspiration. It is commonly used to treat symptoms such as fever, headache, and stiffness in the neck and back caused by external pathogens, particularly suitable for cases accompanied by thirst, effectively relieving discomfort caused by fever.
2. Promotes Saliva Production to Quench Thirst: It enhances the ascending clear energy of the spleen and stomach, thereby promoting the distribution of body fluids and relieving thirst. It is especially effective for excessive thirst caused by fluid depletion due to heat-related illnesses or diabetes, helping replenish the body's lost fluids.
3. Uplifts Yang Energy to Stop Diarrhea: Kudzu root can elevate the ascending clear energy of the spleen and stomach, helping to stop diarrhea. It is often used to treat diarrhea caused by spleen deficiency and weak transportation function due to insufficient ascending clear energy. By uplifting yang energy, it helps restore the normal digestive and absorptive functions of the spleen and stomach.
4. Promotes Blood Circulation and Removes Meridian Blockages: Kudzu root has the effect of unblocking meridians, improving symptoms such as limb numbness and pain caused by poor circulation of qi and blood. It can help alleviate joint pain and limited mobility caused by rheumatic obstruction in the meridians, effectively relieving pain and promoting smooth flow of qi and blood through the meridians.
5. Alleviates Alcohol Toxicity: Kudzu root can reduce liver damage caused by alcohol and accelerate alcohol metabolism. Consuming kudzu root in moderation after drinking can alleviate hangover symptoms such as headache, dizziness, and facial flushing, helping protect the liver and reduce the harmful effects of alcohol on the body. It is a commonly used herbal remedy for alcohol intoxication.
II. Methods of Consumption
1. Mixing Kudzu Powder: Take an appropriate amount of kudzu powder and place it in a bowl. First mix it with a small amount of cold water until it forms a smooth paste, then pour in boiling water while continuously stirring until the mixture becomes a transparent gel-like consistency. Honey, white sugar, or brown sugar may be added according to personal taste, resulting in a smooth and convenient-to-consume texture.
2. Making Soup: Cut the kudzu root into small pieces and cook it together with ingredients such as pork ribs or chicken. After prolonged simmering, the nutrients from the kudzu root infuse into the soup, enhancing its flavor and providing nourishing benefits. This soup can relieve muscle fever and quench thirst.
3. Cooking Porridge: Wash and slice the kudzu root, then cook it with rice. During the cooking process, the medicinal properties of the kudzu root gradually release into the porridge. The porridge carries a mild aroma of kudzu root and has the effects of uplifting yang energy to stop diarrhea, strengthening the spleen, and nourishing the stomach, making it suitable for individuals with a weak spleen and stomach.
4. Brewing Tea: Slice the kudzu root thinly, place an appropriate amount into a teacup, and pour in boiling water. Let it steep for several minutes before drinking. It can be re-brewed until the flavor diminishes. This tea helps promote blood circulation, unblock meridians, and alleviate alcohol toxicity, making it particularly suitable for consumption after drinking or for individuals who frequently work at a computer or sit for long periods.
5. Making Desserts: When preparing desserts such as kudzu jelly, mix kudzu powder with water and heat until thickened. Pour the mixture into molds and let it cool to set, then add preferred fruits or jams. This type of dessert is not only delicious but also provides the health benefits of kudzu root, making it a healthy summer treat.
Although kudzu root offers multiple benefits, it is not suitable for everyone. Pregnant women, nursing mothers, and individuals with cold-damp constitutions should use it cautiously. Additionally, kudzu root should not be taken on an empty stomach to avoid gastrointestinal irritation and discomfort.
