Kudzu

Identity

Common Name

Kudzu

Scientific Name

Pueraria lobata

Botanical Family

Fabaceae

Native Region

East Asia (China, Japan, Korea)

Cultivation Regions

China, Japan, Southeast Asia, United States (invasive)

Plant Parts Used

Root, Flowers

Synonyms

Ge Gen, Kuzu, Japanese Arrowroot

Caffeine Level

Caffeine Free

A vigorous climbing vine with large trifoliate leaves of three broad lobed leaflets, long pendant clusters of purple-violet pea-like flowers, and a large starchy tuberous root used in food and medicine.

Historical Background

Kudzu (ge gen) has been used in Traditional Chinese Medicine for over two millennia to release muscle tension and clear heat, and its starchy root is also a food. In the American South it became a notorious invasive, but its root tea remains a respected remedy in East Asian herbalism.

Earliest recorded uses: Recorded in the Shennong Ben Cao Jing (~2000 years ago); a classic TCM cold-and-alcohol tonic.

Traditional Uses

These uses document historical traditions and do not imply proven effectiveness.

Flavor & Aroma

Aroma: Sweet, starchy, slightly floral, earthy

Tea Information

Research Summary

Kudzu has a long TCM tradition for tension, digestion, and alcohol-craving support. Clinical evidence is limited; small trials give mixed results for alcohol use and cardiovascular effects, and it is not a treatment for addiction, cardiovascular disease, or any condition.

Evidence levels reflect the currently available scientific literature and may change as new research emerges. Where evidence is limited or conflicting, this is stated plainly.

References & Sources