Botanical Overview
Pueraria lobata, commonly known as Kudzu, Gegen, or Japanese arrowroot, belongs to the Fabaceae family. It is native to East and Southeast Asia including China, Japan, and parts of eastern Russia. The root is the primary part used medicinally.
Energetics
This herb is considered cooling and moistening in nature, with sweet and bitter tastes. Its directionality is ascending, and it functions as a relaxing tonic affecting the qi and blood systems.
Primary Actions
- Alcohol deterrent
- Anti-inflammatory
- Antispasmodic
- Cardioprotective
- Vasodilator
Indications
Western
- Alcohol cravings
- Hypertension
- Muscle pain
- Headache
- Fever
- Diarrhea
Syndromes
- Alcohol dependency
- Cardiovascular disorders
- Hypertension
TCM
- Neck stiffness
- Headache
- Fever
- Diarrhea
- Muscle aches
Syndromes
- Wind-heat pattern
- Spleen qi deficiency
- External wind invasion
Ayurveda
Not well documented or traditionally used.
Unani
Not well documented or traditionally used.
Constituents & Mechanisms
Rich in isoflavones such as daidzein, genistein, and puerarin alongside flavonoids and starches, which contribute to its vasodilatory, anti-inflammatory, and detoxifying effects.
Dosage & Preparations
- Decoction 9-15 g dried root daily
- Extract standardized to puerarin 10-15% 250-500 mg 1-3 times daily
- Powdered root 5-15 g 1-3 times daily
Safety & Contraindications
Generally safe when used appropriately. Use with caution or avoid in pregnancy and lactation due to insufficient safety data. May interact with alcohol metabolism and antihypertensive medications. No severe toxicity reported.
Astrological Correspondences
No reliable evidence or tradition-based sources found for planetary or elemental rulers.
Selected References
- Herbal Medicine: Biomolecular and Clinical Aspects, 2nd edition
- Chinese Herbal Medicine: Materia Medica, 3rd Edition
- Handbook of Medicinal Herbs