Kudzu Root • 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