Can eating kudzu root powder cause diarrhea?
May 21, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yu Yongchao
Introduction
Kudzu starch is a white powdered food made from the dried roots and stems of the leguminous plant kudzu vine through processes of grinding, washing with water, precipitation, and more. It is rich in starch, dietary fiber, and flavonoid compounds, and has effects of relieving muscle tension and reducing fever, promoting saliva production and quenching thirst. It is commonly used to alleviate symptoms such as fever with thirst and soreness in the neck and back. Whether consuming kudzu starch causes diarrhea depends on an individual's constitution.
Diarrhea usually refers to loose stools. Whether consuming kudzu root powder will cause diarrhea depends on one's body constitution. The specific details are as follows:
Kudzu root powder is made from dried kudzu roots ground into powder, containing starch and dietary fiber, as well as various beneficial components. For healthy individuals, moderate consumption of kudzu root powder is generally safe and will not cause diarrhea. The dietary fiber in kudzu root powder helps promote intestinal motility and improve constipation. Additionally, it contains various beneficial components, such as isoflavones, which are good for cardiovascular health. However, it should be noted that although healthy individuals can consume kudzu root powder without experiencing diarrhea, the amount consumed should still be monitored, as excessive intake may burden the gastrointestinal system and severe cases may result in diarrhea.
Individuals with special body constitutions may experience diarrhea after consuming kudzu root powder. For example, those allergic to kudzu root powder may develop allergic reactions, including diarrhea, after consumption. Patients with acute gastroenteritis may experience indigestion after consuming kudzu root powder, and severe cases may even develop diarrhea. Additionally, since kudzu root powder is a cooling food, individuals with cold deficiency in the spleen and stomach may also experience diarrhea and other symptoms after consumption.
In daily life, food choices should be based on one's own body constitution to avoid discomfort. It is also important to avoid excessive consumption of any single food, as this may not only cause diarrhea but also lead to malnutrition. A balanced diet is recommended to promote overall health.
