Botanical Overview
Pueraria mirifica is a perennial climbing plant from the Fabaceae family native to Thailand, Myanmar, and Laos. It is commonly known as Kwao Krua, White Kwao Krua, and Thai Kudzu. The primary part used medicinally is the root, traditionally employed in Southeast Asia for its hormone-like effects.
Energetics
The root is considered energetically neutral in temperature and moisture, with a bitter taste. It is tonifying in action, especially on the body’s essence, supporting hormonal balance.
Primary Actions
- Phytoestrogenic
- Hormone modulating
- Antioxidant
Indications
Western
- Menopausal symptoms such as hot flashes
- Osteoporosis prevention
- Skin aging improvement
Syndromes
- Estrogen deficiency
TCM
Not established
Ayurveda
Not established
Unani
Not established
Constituents & Mechanisms
The main bioactive constituents include phytoestrogens such as miroestrol and deoxymiroestrol, isoflavones, and coumestans, which confer estrogen-like effects and antioxidant properties.
Dosage & Preparations
- Powdered root 50–150 mg daily
- Extract standardized to 10% miroestrol, 20–40 mg daily
- Capsules 25–50 mg one to two times daily
Safety & Contraindications
Use caution in hormone-sensitive conditions like breast or uterine cancer. Contraindicated in pregnancy and lactation due to estrogenic activity. Possible additive effects with hormone therapies and potential mild gastrointestinal discomfort at high doses have been reported.
Astrological Correspondences
No reliable traditional sources found for planetary or elemental rulers of Pueraria mirifica.
Selected References
- Phytochemistry and Pharmacology of Pueraria mirifica, Schmidt M, et al., Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 2005
- Hormonal Effects of Pueraria mirifica Extract in Postmenopausal Women, Wongkrajang Y, et al., Planta Medica, 2010
- Safety and Toxicology of Pueraria mirifica, Suthammarak W, et al., Phytotherapy Research, 2015
- Kwao Krua (Pueraria mirifica), Chen JK & Chen TT, The Complete Medicinal Herbal, 2004