Increases in 5-HIAL have been shown to be correlated with decreased alcohol consumption in hamsters (Keung et al., 1995). Kudzu’s alteration of alcohol consumption may be through direct effects at brain benzodiazepine receptors on the GABAA complex. All of the above mentioned mechanisms, with the exception of a disulfiram-like one, require repeated administration and time to develop. Since consuming alcohol while taking kudzu extract is not aversive, another explanation is necessary to account for the extremely fast onset of action observed in the present study. The most obvious is one that involves alcohol pharmacokinetics.

kudzu for alcohol cravings

A. Several studies have indicated that even recommended amounts of vitamin A might weaken bones and lead to fractures. But new research suggests that normal doses of beta carotene and vitamin A are not related to fracture risk. A. Policosanol is a natural compound derived from sugar-cane wax, beeswax or yams. While it might not lower cholesterol as well as statin-type medicines, data suggest it can lower bad LDL cholesterol and even raise good HDL cholesterol. We invite you to share your thoughts with others, but remember that our comment section is a public forum. Please do not use your full first and last name if you want to keep details of your medical history anonymous. Advice from other commenters on this website is not a substitute for medical attention.

Alcoholism and Substance Abuse

It has many profound pharmacological actions, including antidipsotropic activity. Dr. Rebeca Eriksen is the Nutritional Consultant for Fit Recovery.

Regardless of the mechanism of action, the present finding that a modest, single dose of kudzu extract reduces binge drinking has profound implications as it offers a unique opportunity for early intervention for problem drinkers. As an herbal plant extract, kudzu can be made available without a prescription. While it does not completely eliminate drinking, it is clearly effective in significantly reducing intake, which offers individuals an opportunity to engage in more responsible drinking patterns.

Kudzu Treatment for Alcohol Abuse (KUDZU)

Importantly, 40% of these patients relapsed more than five times indicating serious problems with alcohol abuse/dependence. Certainly we caution any real interpretation which must await further study. This lack of bitter flavor ingestion compromises not only overall health, but may allow for a greater risk of alcohol intake. The bitter compounds contained in Declinol can promote better health overall, while also helping to better ensure that the TAS2R kudzu for alcohol cravings receptors in the human gut are stimulated adequately. Chai hu , one of the most frequently used herbs in Chinese herbal medicine, has positive benefits in cases of liver toxicity especially due to alcoholism , analgesic properties as well as sedative activity . Furthermore, Duffy et al. reported using multiple regression analyses, greater bitterness from 3.2 mMPROP was a significant predictor of greater ethanol intensity and less alcohol intake.