Kudzu • Pueraria montana lobata
Parts Used: mainly the roots, all aerial parts are edible
Affinity: cardiovascular system, endocrine system
Herbal Action: anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, diaphoretic, hypoglycemic
Indications:
In Traditional Chinese Medicine, it is used to reduce fevers and associated headaches, stiffness and muscle pain
Indicated whenever excess heat needs to be moved from the body, like during menopause
Traditionally used to reduce alcohol cravings
Preferred Preparations: decoction, tincture
Taste: spinach like flavor
Contraindications: not for use during pregnancy or in conjunction with tamoxifen or estrogenic cancer treatment
Origin Story: used as a thickening agent in Japan + China
