Evidence supporting the use of: Kudzu
For the health condition: Worry
Synopsis
Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 1
Kudzu (Pueraria lobata) has a long history of use in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), where it is known as "ge gen." In TCM, kudzu root is commonly used to treat a variety of ailments, including headaches, neck pain, fever, and sometimes symptoms associated with emotional imbalances such as anxiety or "worry." The rationale in traditional medicine is based on the idea that kudzu can help "release the exterior" and promote relaxation of muscles and tendons, which indirectly may help alleviate stress or mild worry. However, these uses are based on traditional concepts rather than scientific validation.
When it comes to scientific evidence, there are very limited studies directly evaluating kudzu’s effect on worry, anxiety, or related emotional states in humans. Most of the modern research on kudzu has focused on its potential benefits for alcohol dependence, cardiovascular health, and metabolic syndromes. While some animal studies suggest that certain flavonoids in kudzu, such as puerarin, might have neuroprotective or calming effects, there is insufficient data to claim efficacy for treating anxiety or worry in humans. Therefore, kudzu’s use for "worry" is primarily justified by tradition rather than scientific evidence, and the strength of evidence is low.
Other ingredients used for Worry
5-Hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP)ashwagandha
waterhyssop
benegut perilla (proprietary)
damiana
fennel
GABA (gamma aminobutyric acid)
guayusa
kudzu
l-theanine
l-tyrosine
lavender
lion's mane
magnesium
motherwort
ophiopogon root
polygala root
relora® (proprietary)
vitamin B6
zinc
cardamom
1,3,7-Trimethylpurine-2,6-dione
Albizia
Buddha's Hand
bacoside
Poppy
Other health conditions supported by kudzu
Addictions (coffee, caffeine)Addictions (drugs)
Addictions (general remedies for)
Addictions (sugar or refined carbohydrates)
Addictions (tobacco smoking or chewing)
Alcoholism
Angina
Anxiety
Arthritis
Asthma
Backache
Bronchitis
Cholesterol (high)
Circulation (poor)
Constipation (adults)
Diabetes
Digestion (poor)
Fatigue
Fever
Gastritis
Headache (general)
Headache (tension)
Hypertension
Indigestion
Inflammation
Insomnia
Liver Detoxification
Memory and Brain Function
Menopause
Migraine
Nausea and Vomiting
Pain (general remedies for)
PMS (general)
Stress
Triglycerides (high)
Worry