Evidence supporting the use of: Puerain
For the health condition: Addictions (tobacco smoking or chewing)

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3

Puerarin is an isoflavone derived from the root of Pueraria lobata (kudzu). Its use in the treatment of addictions, particularly alcohol and tobacco dependence, has some scientific basis. Several preclinical studies and a number of small clinical trials have investigated its effects on addictive behaviors. For tobacco use, the evidence is less robust than for alcohol, but there are a few studies suggesting potential benefit. Mechanistically, puerarin is thought to modulate neurotransmitter systems, such as dopamine and glutamate, associated with addiction and reward pathways in the brain.

Some clinical studies from China and a few pilot trials in Western countries have reported reduced cigarette consumption and craving in participants taking puerarin or kudzu extracts. For example, a 2014 randomized controlled trial found that kudzu extract reduced the number of cigarettes smoked by participants over a short time period. The effect sizes were modest, and sample sizes were generally small. Additionally, animal studies have demonstrated decreased nicotine self-administration after puerarin administration, supporting a possible biological effect.

However, large-scale, high-quality randomized controlled trials are lacking, and most available studies have limitations in design or sample size. Thus, while there is preliminary scientific evidence supporting the use of puerarin for tobacco addiction, it remains insufficient for strong clinical recommendations. The evidence is rated as moderate (3/5), reflecting promising but still preliminary scientific support.

More about Puerain
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Products containing Puerain

We currently have no products on Caring Sunshine that contain this ingredient.