These results indicated that the inhibitory effects of HPE on alcohol intake are not mediated by GABA agonist actions 106,107. In conclusion, Hypericum perforatum might be effective to improving alcohol drinking behaviors, although more efforts are needed to clarify the specific mechanisms. The present study explored possible mechanisms to explain how kudzu extract reduces alcohol consumption in humans. The results imply that a reduction in consumption exhibited in previous studies is not likely due to an increase in the subjective intoxicating effects of alcohol or to an increase in alcohol’s effect on psychomotor performance or cognitive processing. However, it is interesting to note that two measures of physiological responses – heart rate and skin temperature – were accentuated by kudzu pretreatment.
Complementary Strategies for Managing Alcohol Cravings
The study included around 4 weeks of treatment in which kudzu was administered with an isoflavone concentration of 250mg. No side effects or changes in vital signs, blood, renal or liver function were recorded. In addition, it did not disrupt sleep, as usually occurs with other hangover cures. However, kudzu extract significantly reduced the number of drinks consumed each week by 34-57%. As drinking behavior was measured using a wrist actigraphy device, we were able to monitor alcohol consumption continuously, 24 hours a day and seven days a week.
Kudzu Extract Safety
- Participants were treated for a total of 9 days with either kudzu extract or placebo.
- Any product carrying a THR mark can be relied upon to contain the amounts of herb/active ingredient as stated on the bottle.
- Acetaldehyde is categorized as a group 2B carcinogenic substance by the World Health Organization International Agency for Research on Cancer, meaning it is possibly carcinogenic to humans 22.
- In current research, doses of kudzu extract for issues related to alcohol have ranged from 300 mg to 2000 mg a day.
One such resource is AlcoholAwareness.org, which offers a wealth of information, support, and guidance for individuals and their families dealing with alcoholism. Alcoholism is a complex condition, and its treatment should not be taken lightly. While natural remedies like kudzu show promise, they are not a standalone solution.
Taking Kudzu For Hangovers
The CO2 extract of hypericum has been also shown to mediate alcohol intake in msP rats. Animal tests verified that the CO2 extract with 24.33% hyperforin and a very low content of hypericin inhibited alcohol intake more potently than the alcoholic extract containing 0.3% hypericin and 3.8% hyperforin. Neurochemical mechanisms are responsible for the reduction of alcohol intake and the antidepressant-like effect of HPE 105. Hypericum perforatum markedly reduced alcohol intake in msP rats, and its effect was behaviorally selective. In other studies, the GABAA receptor antagonist bicuculline and the GABAB receptor antagonists CGP did not modify the effect of CO2 extract of hypericum.
The lack of side effects after four weeks of treatment with both placebo and kudzu extract is likely one of the major reasons for the high rate of medication adherence. Vital signs, measures of blood chemistry, liver function tests and urinalysis assessments were all normal. One animal study in particular demonstrated that kudzu extract and its major components are very safe, even after relatively large kudzu and alcohol doses (2 g/day) over a 3-month treatment period (Keyler et al., (2002). The rates of alcohol drinking during follow-up phase were also reduced compared to baseline in both the kudzu- and placebo-treated groups. We had not expected that any beneficial effects would remain after kudzu extract had cleared the body based on our pharmacokinetic results (Penetar et al., 2006). When given equal amounts of alcohol, kudzu- and placebo-treated individuals respond similarly (Penetar et al., 2011).
Kudzu for Hangovers: Helps Sober Up & Relieve Hangovers?
Natural products for the prevention and treatment of hangover and alcohol use disorder. The main processes of the oxidative pathway are mediated by alcohol dehydrogenase (ADH) and acetaldehyde alcohol rehab dehydrogenase (ALDH), which transform alcohol into acetaldehyde and then to acetate, respectively 20. Long-term chronic alcohol consumption reduced hepatic ADH and exacerbated the adverse reactions. Acetaldehyde, which is the first metabolite of alcohol oxidation, could lead to a series of unpleasant feelings such as nausea, vomiting, headache and fatigue 21. Acetaldehyde is categorized as a group 2B carcinogenic substance by the World Health Organization International Agency for Research on Cancer, meaning it is possibly carcinogenic to humans 22. If you are unable to quit drinking with support groups and therapy alone, you may benefit from intensive outpatient treatment.
Anti-Inflammatory Effects
Kudzu is a climbing vine native to East Asia, traditionally used in Chinese medicine. Embrace the magic of herbs and embark on a path to vibrant health and vitality with us. If you experience symptoms like skin rash, itching, swelling, or difficulty breathing after using Kudzu, discontinue its use and seek medical attention. Rhodiola Rosea‘s adaptogenic properties, similar to those of Kudzu, can create a dynamic duo for individuals seeking to manage stress and enhance their physical and mental resilience. When combined with Kudzu, it can create a potent blend that supports overall immunity and well-being. For those seeking better sleep quality and relaxation, a combination of Kudzu and Valerian may prove beneficial.
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Kudzu isn’t a standalone treatment for alcoholism or reducing voluntary alcohol intake, but if your goal is to reduce alcohol cravings or cut back, it may be a helpful natural supplement. If you’re going to try a doze of kudzu extract for alcohol cravings, our guide explores everything you should know first. Kudzu is a natural remedy that has been used for centuries in traditional Chinese medicine. It has been suggested that kudzu may be effective in reducing alcohol consumption, alcohol cravings, and withdrawal symptoms in individuals with alcohol use disorders.