Kuzu: benefits and properties of this macrobiotic
The kuzu is one of the most important macrobiotic plants . In Asia it has been used as medicine and as a food supplement since Antiquity. Its popularization worldwide, which has occurred in recent decades, has made it possible to begin to scientifically investigate the possible benefits of this plant.
In this article we will describe the properties and benefits that have been attributed to the kuzu , both from traditional Asian medicine and from research.
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What is the kuzu?
The kuzu it is also known as "kudzu" or "kutzu" . It comes from the Pueraria lobata, a plant of the legume family, which also includes chickpea, beans, beans, soybeans, clover, alfalfa, carob and acacia.
In traditional Chinese medicine, where it is called "gé gēn", kuzu is considered one of the 50 fundamental herbs. Both in this one and in other Asian countries they are attributed numerous beneficial properties for health .
Its root is usually consumed in powder, usually dissolved in liquids. In this way it is used as a condiment in foods such as soups or sauces, or mixed with tea; in Japan such a drink is called "kuzuyu".
Likewise, kuzu has other uses. During history, and also today, it has been used to make baskets, clothes and paper, to make soaps and lotions and as a fertilizer; It also allows to control soil erosion.
The consumption of kuzu is framed in food and macrobiotic medicine , which propose that the use of certain natural products helps to harmonize the organism, both physically and psychologically and spiritually.
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Benefits and properties
Next we will describe the beneficial properties that are attributed to the kuzu. Scientific research has given some support to some of them, while in others their use is more questionable.
1. To prevent diseases
Among the components of kuzu highlights daidzein, a substance with antioxidant effects . If enough antioxidants are not consumed, the cells wear out more quickly and diseases are easier to appear, so a minimal contribution of antioxidants can prevent these negative effects.
2. For the headache
In China, in the 1970s, a study was conducted on the usefulness of kuzu to treat headaches. The results of this research suggest that this plant can be effective for reduce migraine, especially in clusters , one of the most painful types of headache.
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3. For intestinal transit
One of the most common uses of kuzu is the relief of symptoms of diarrhea, constipation and heartburn . This seems to be due to the fact that it regulates the intestinal flora and causes intestinal anti-inflammatory effects.
4. For alcoholism
Historically, kuzu has been used to treat alcoholism. In particular, it is believed that it can be effective in preventing excessive consumption of alcohol and in helping Detoxify the liver .
Likewise, kuzu is usually recommended as a remedy for hangovers, but recent studies suggest that it could be counterproductive in this sense because it increases the accumulation of acetaldehyde in the body.
5. For fatigue
The kuzu is considered a revitalizing product due to its multiple beneficial properties. Thus, it is believed that it can be useful for combat fatigue and physical weakness , both those that occur in a timely manner and those that are related to chronic fatigue.
6. For fever and cold
Beneficial properties have been attributed to kuzu for the treatment of symptoms of fever, cold and flu . It can also be useful to relieve cough, even in cases of bronchitis.
7. For allergies
The supposed beneficial effects of kuzu for the management of allergies seem to be related to its antioxidant effects, and probably also to its benefits for the respiratory system.
8. To prevent dementia
Studies with rats suggest that the consumption of kuzu could prevent the onset of Alzheimer's and other types of dementia. The mechanism seems to be related to the suppression of apoptosis (or programmed cell death) in the hippocampus, the main region of the brain related to memory.
9. For the symptoms of menopause
The kuzu contains isoflavones , chemical compounds typical of some plants to which benefits are attributed to relieve the symptoms of menopause, in particular hot flashes and hot flashes. However, more research is required to confirm these properties and the absence of side effects of the isoflavones.
10. For vertigo
Vertigo consists of feelings of dizziness and lack of balance, not necessarily related to heights. In many cases this symptom is due to problems in the inner ear.
11. For tinnitus
Tinnitus, also known as "tinnitus" , are perceptions of sounds, usually beeps, that are due to problems in the ear like tamponade or blows. The benefits of kuzu to treat this alteration are probably related to those related to vertigo.
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