Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

Kudzu (Pueraria lobata) has a long history of use in traditional Chinese medicine, where it is known as “Ge Gen.” Traditionally, kudzu root has been used to treat a variety of conditions, including cardiovascular complaints such as chest pain (angina), hypertension, and symptoms associated with poor circulation. The rationale for its use in angina is rooted in the belief that kudzu can “open the vessels” and improve blood flow. Some traditional texts recommend kudzu for “stagnation of qi and blood”, a pattern that can manifest as chest tightness or pain. From a scientific perspective, the evidence supporting kudzu’s use in angina is limited but somewhat suggestive. Animal studies and small clinical trials have shown that certain isoflavones in kudzu, such as puerarin, may have vasodilatory and cardioprotective effects, potentially improving coronary blood flow and reducing ischemia. However, these studies are preliminary, often conducted in animals or in vitro, and there is a lack of large, high-quality clinical trials in humans specifically focused on angina. In summary, kudzu’s use for angina is primarily justified by traditional medical systems, with a low-to-moderate level of supporting evidence from early scientific studies. It is not considered a standard treatment in Western medicine, and more rigorous research is needed to confirm its efficacy and safety for angina.

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