Kudzu ~ Pueraria lobata

Kudzu

Latin name: Pueraria lobata

Family: Leguminosae

Part used: root

Habitat: native to E. Asia; considered a weed in the southern USA

Main constituents: isoflavones, isoflavone glycosides

Energetics: unknown

Main herbal actions: diaphoretic, antispasmodic, muscle relaxant

Minor herbal actions: antipyretic

Main medicinal uses: alcohol withdrawal support, high blood pressure, fevers caused by heat in colds and influenza, stiff neck and shoulders

Minor medicinal uses: angina, dysentery, colitis

Preparations: powdered root: 9-15 g qd; tincture: 1-2 ml 3-5x/day

Contraindications: patients with cold in stomach or excessive sweating

Toxicity: none at proper dosages

Sources: http://www.holistic-online.com/Herbal-Med/_Herbs/h329.htm