10 health benefits of Pueraria lobata (kudzu) (2025)

Pueraria lobata, also known as kudzu, has health benefits such as lowering cholesterol and blood pressure due to its isoflavone and flavonoid content.

These medicinal properties can also help alleviate symptoms of menopause and menopausal-related conditions. For example, women who take kudzu extract may experience reduced hot flashes and improved mood, leading to a better quality of life.

Additionally, its anti-inflammatory properties can also aid in managing stress and anxiety.

This article explains in details the 10 best health benefits of Pueraria lobata .

1. Reduces blood sugar

Pueraria lobata reduces blood sugar because it has been shown to increase insulin sensitivity and suppress glucose production in the liver.

The isoflavones and flavonoids present in kudzu extract inhibit the activity of key enzymes involved in glucose metabolism, thereby reducing blood sugar levels. Additionally, kudzu's antioxidant properties may help mitigate oxidative stress, which is often linked to hyperglycemia.

These mechanisms suggest kudzu as a promising natural treatment for diabetes management.

2. Lowers cholesterol

Pueraria lobata lowers cholesterol because it inhibits HMG-CoA reductase, an enzyme crucial for cholesterol production in the liver.

Its bioactive compounds, isoflavones and saponins, have been shown to reduce triglycerides and LDL (bad) cholesterol while also increasing HDL (good) cholesterol.

By regulating cholesterol synthesis, Pueraria lobata has been found to be effective in reducing the risk of cardiovascular diseases associated with high cholesterol levels.

3. Prevents atherosclerosis

4. Relieves anxiety

5. Inhibits cancer growth

Pueraria lobata inhibits cancer growth because it contains bioactive compounds that target various pathways involved in tumor development.

Its isoflavones, such as daidzein and genistein, have been shown to induce apoptosis in cancer cells and inhibit angiogenesis, thereby preventing the growth and spread of cancer.

Additionally, kudzu extract has been found to induce autophagy and inhibit metastasis, offering a promising natural approach to cancer treatment.

6. Improves digestion

Pueraria lobata improves digestion because of its ability to stimulate digestive enzymes and regulate gut bacteria.

The isoflavones and saponins present in kudzu have anti-inflammatory properties that soothe digestive issues such as irritable bowel syndrome and inflammatory bowel disease.

Additionally, kudzu's prebiotic properties help feed good bacteria in the gut, promoting a balanced gut microbiome and supporting optimal nutrient absorption.

7. Treats diabetes

Pueraria lobata treats diabetes because it contains isoflavones, specifically puerarin, which have been shown to enhance insulin sensitivity and decrease blood glucose levels.

Studies have demonstrated that kudzu extract can improve glycemic control in animal models of diabetes.

The isoflavones in kudzu may also help to protect pancreatic beta cells from damage, promoting insulin production and secretion.

8. Reduces inflammation

Pueraria lobata reduces inflammation because it contains isoflavones and polyphenols that have potent anti-inflammatory properties.

These compounds have been shown to inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and enzymes, which contribute to chronic inflammation.

Additionally, kudzu's flavonoids have antioxidant activity, further reducing oxidative stress and promoting a state of balanced inflammation, which can help alleviate symptoms associated with conditions such as arthritis and other inflammatory diseases.

9. Protects liver function

Pueraria lobata protects liver function because it contains isoflavones, particularly genistein and daidzein, which have been shown to possess hepatoprotective properties.

These compounds are believed to scavenge free radicals, reduce inflammation, and inhibit the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines, thus mitigating liver damage caused by toxins and oxidative stress.

Regular consumption of Pueraria lobata has been associated with improved liver health and function.

10. Regulates blood pressure

Pueraria lobata regulates blood pressure because of its isoflavone content, specifically puerarin, which has been shown to have a vasodilatory effect.

This leads to a reduction in blood pressure and improved cardiovascular health.

Additionally, kudzu's flavonoids, such as daidzein and genistein, have anti-inflammatory properties that can also contribute to lowering blood pressure and reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease.