Evidence supporting the use of: Kudzu
For the health condition: Nausea and Vomiting

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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 is often prescribed as part of herbal formulas for a variety of ailments, including fever, stiff neck, and sometimes digestive complaints such as nausea and vomiting. Its use for nausea and vomiting seems to stem more from its general effects on the gastrointestinal tract and its role in formulas targeting acute illnesses, rather than direct evidence for antiemetic properties. There are very few modern scientific studies specifically examining kudzu for nausea and vomiting in humans or animal models. Most research on kudzu has focused on its potential for treating alcohol dependence, cardiovascular health, or metabolic conditions. The evidence for its use in nausea and vomiting is therefore largely anecdotal and based on traditional practice rather than validated by clinical trials. Some of the isoflavones in kudzu, such as puerarin, have shown biological activity that may influence smooth muscle or inflammation, which could theoretically impact gastrointestinal symptoms, but this has not been substantiated in well-controlled studies for nausea or vomiting. In summary, kudzu’s use for this purpose is primarily traditional, and the scientific support for such an application is very limited.

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