The BDI for the kudzu extract-treated participants was 1.78 ± 2.11 and 2.63 ± 2.50 at baseline and during treatment, respectively. The BDI measures of the placebo-treated participants were 2.0 ± 2.58 and 1.67 ± 1.37 at baseline and during kudzu for alcohol cravings treatment, respectively. The BAI scores were equally stable and ranged from 0.33 to 1.71 during treatment. It is better to accept them as normal and actively treat them through a variety of methods, including possibly taking medication.
Medications that can harm the liver (Hepatotoxic drugs) interacts with KUDZU
In 2012, I ordered some high-quality organic kudzu capsules after reading about the potential for it to curb alcohol consumption. I took several capsules per day before drinking, and went through all of it in about one month. While the blood flow theory of kudzu for alcoholism may be true, there is likely more going on here. It contains several active isoflavones, which are natural plant chemicals with antioxidant effects.
Alcoholism and Substance Abuse
The kudzu extract used in the present study was primarily composed of puerarin, but also contained smaller amounts of daidzin and daidzein. Although several theories have emerged, the specific https://ecosoberhouse.com/ mechanism(s) of action of these isoflavonoid compounds is not known. Keung (2002) lists several known effects of daidzin and speculates how these may act to reduce alcohol consumption.
How to Stop Alcohol Cravings Naturally
Daidzin is known to be a selective inhibitor of aldehyde dehydrogenase, the major enzyme responsible for the breakdown of acetaldehyde which is the primary metabolite of alcohol oxidation. By preventing acetaldehyde breakdown and allowing it to build to high levels in the body, alcohol consumption would cause an aversive reaction similar to disulfiram (Antabuse™), eliminating positive effects of alcohol and limiting consumption. This mechanism is unlikely however, at least in non-humans, as additional findings indicated that daidzin administration at doses that reduce alcohol intake in hamsters did not change acetaldehyde metabolism (Keung et al., 1995). Another effect may involve alterations in the mitochondrial monoamine oxidase-acetaldehyde pathway.
- While the blood flow theory of kudzu for alcoholism may be true, there is likely more going on here.
- Participants weighed on the average 165.5±11.1 pounds and had an average body mass index of 25.3±1.3.
- The plant contains phytoestrogens, which are compounds that mimic the effects of estrogen in the body.
- In our previous study we demonstrated that the same kudzu extract used in the present study significantly reduced beer consumption in binge-drinkers (Lukas et al., 2005).
Next, Dr. Lee contacted researchers at the Bowles Center for Alcohol Studies. He suggested that they test Kudzu to see if it would reduce alcohol consumption among their rats. These medications are usually prescribed as part of MAT (Medication Assisted Treatment), also called Medication for Alcohol Use Disorder (MAUD), which combines prescription drugs with therapy to help people overcome substance abuse issues. Medication helps manage uncomfortable symptoms while you focus on getting better.