What are the functions and effects of Kudzu root?
Sep 12, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Sun Lianqing
Introduction
Under normal circumstances, the main effects and benefits of Kudzu root (Pueraria lobata) include relieving muscle tension and reducing fever, promoting saliva production to relieve thirst, uplifting yang energy to stop diarrhea, improving blood circulation, and providing nutritional supplementation. When consuming Kudzu root, fresh root can be sliced and cooked or used in soups, but should not be eaten in excessive amounts to avoid gastrointestinal discomfort such as bloating. Dried Kudzu root or Kudzu starch must be prepared according to instructions before consumption, ensuring it is thoroughly cooked, which facilitates digestion and absorption.
Generally speaking, the main functions and benefits of Kudzu root (Pueraria lobata) include relieving muscle tension and fever, promoting saliva production to alleviate thirst, uplifting yang energy to stop diarrhea, promoting blood circulation and meridian function, and providing nutritional support. Detailed explanations are as follows:
1. Relieve Muscle Tension and Reduce Fever
In traditional Chinese medicine theory, Kudzu root is cool in nature and enters the lung and stomach meridians. It has the characteristic of dispersing exterior pathogens and eliminating heat from the exterior muscles. For symptoms such as fever, headache, stiff neck and back caused by external contraction of wind-heat or wind-cold that has transformed into heat, moderate consumption of Kudzu root can help dissipate heat from the muscular surface, relieve fever and stiffness, and aid in restoring physical comfort.
2. Promote Saliva Secretion and Alleviate Thirst
Kudzu root contains abundant moisture and mucilage, which can stimulate saliva secretion and replenish bodily fluids. For symptoms such as dry mouth and throat, sore throat, and persistent thirst caused by heat-related illnesses damaging body fluids or yin deficiency, moderate consumption can moisturize the mouth and throat, alleviate thirst, and help maintain a well-hydrated state.
3. Uplift Yang Energy and Stop Diarrhea
Kudzu root can enhance the yang energy of the spleen and stomach, improve their transformation and transportation functions, and correct abnormal intestinal peristalsis. For symptoms such as diarrhea, loose stools, and poor appetite caused by spleen deficiency with qi sinking, moderate consumption can help regulate intestinal function, reduce the frequency of diarrhea, alleviate digestive discomfort caused by spleen and stomach weakness, and is easily absorbed and utilized by the body.
4. Promote Blood Circulation and Unblock Meridians
The active ingredients in Kudzu root can promote blood circulation and unblock meridians. For discomforts such as limb numbness, shoulder and neck pain, and joint stiffness caused by blocked meridians, moderate consumption may assist in improving blood flow, reducing numbness and pain, and enhancing physical mobility. It is especially suitable for individuals who sit for long periods or suffer from poor circulation.
5. Nutritional Supplementation
Kudzu root is rich in starch, dietary fiber, vitamin C, and minerals such as calcium, iron, and potassium, which are essential for maintaining normal physiological functions. Moderate consumption can partially meet the body's nutritional needs and help strengthen physical constitution. Whether used in porridges, soups, or consumed as kudzu powder, it is a common way to supplement nutrition.
When consuming Kudzu root, fresh roots can be sliced and cooked or used in soups, but should not be consumed in excess to avoid gastrointestinal discomfort such as bloating. Dried Kudzu root or kudzu powder should be prepared according to instructions and fully cooked to enhance digestibility and nutrient absorption.
