Anyone who lives in, or travels through, the Southeastern United States is familiar with the Kudzu vine that appears to be taking over in some areas. However, it is actually due to the plant’s rapid growth and ability to overrun other vegetation that it was originally imported from China in the hopes of preventing erosion. In the height of its summer growing season, Kudzu can grow up to 1ft. per day, and the roots themselves can reach the size of adult humans.
Now we are catching on to the medicinal benefits of this “pest weed”, and its large roots, and it has become popular in the treatment and prevention of a variety of health issues, from angina to menopause, to alcoholism, respiratory infections, and migraines…just to name a few. Yet, can it possibly be a miracle for the occasional hangover? My husband certainly thinks so, and I tend to agree.
There are a large variety of benefits to taking a daily vitamin supplement of Kudzu, though one that may not be widely known is its effects on alcohol. Research and studies have shown that Kudzu has the ability to reduce urges and cravings for alcohol, which can be of great help to those who tend to drink too much too fast. Mine and my husband’s first experience with kudzu, however, after researching the benefits, was on a morning we both struggled with hangovers while trying to get ready for work. Within a maximum of two hours all signs of our previous evening were but a memory and our hangovers cured.
Another little-known benefit of a daily dose of Kudzu can be found by those unfortunate women suffering from menopause. Estrogen-like compounds of this herb can bring relief from hot flashes and mood swings which can be a bane of the common woman’s existence.
There are no known side effects of Kudzu reacting negatively with other medications, nor has it shown any toxicity to humans, thus making it relatively safe for any adult. Kudzu can be found in many health food and vitamin supplement stores, often in capsule form. However, the raw root is occasionally available, of which a tea can be made.
Sources: AnniesRemedy.com/herbs; Creators.com/Your Health by Dr. Rallie Mcallister; MotherNature.com
