Chronic alcoholism can damage your liver and cause scarring known as cirrhosis of the liver. Cirrhosis of the liver can also be caused by other diseases and toxins, but the result is the same. The fibrous scar tissue eventually disrupts the liver's blood supply, leading to permanent damage. Kudzu is an herb well-known for its use in treating alcoholism. Although it may be effective in tamping down the desire for alcoholic beverages, there is no evidence kudzu actually heals or reverses the liver damage caused by cirrhosis.
Alcoholic Cirrhosis
Your liver is a powerhouse organ that is responsible for clearing toxins, including alcohol, from your bloodstream, as well as being involved in energy production and manufacturing important nutrients. Over time, constant abuse of alcohol can damage your liver with scarring. Early in the disease, your liver may be able to repair itself, but as the disease progresses, the damage becomes permanent and can increase your risk of liver failure and liver cancer. Alcoholism is probably the best-known cause of cirrhosis of the liver, but other conditions can also affect your liver.
Other Causes And Treatment Of Cirrhosis
There are other conditions and diseases that can damage the liver with scarring and lead to cirrhosis. MayoClinic.com states that hepatitis B and C, diseases affecting the bile ducts, complications of cystic fibrosis and parasitic disease can be factors in causing liver cirrhosis. Metabolic disorders causing the buildup of metals such as iron or copper, and some autoimmune diseases, can also lead to cirrhosis of the liver. Treatment generally consists of medications to control symptoms, including infections, increased swelling and high blood pressure. If alcoholism is involved, it is imperative to stop drinking to prevent further liver damage. Kudzu is an herb that may help to deter your desire for alcohol.
Kudzu
Kudzu, or Pueraria lobata, is an fast-growing vine brought to the United States from Japan to prevent hillside soil erosion. Its root is used as an herbal remedy. Kudzu has been used for thousands of years as an herbal "cure" for alcoholism. Kudzu may be able to reduce the craving for alcohol. Phyllis A. Balch, author of "Prescription for Herbal Healing," states that kudzu appears to work by altering the enzymes responsible for breaking alcohol down, leading to a build-up of acetaldehyde in the bloodstream. Acetaldehyde causes nausea, stomach pain and extreme facial redness, making it physically uncomfortable to drink alcohol. However, there is no indication that kudzu directly impacts cirrhosis of the liver.
Kudzu For Cirrhosis
Although kudzu has been a staple of traditional Chinese medicine for the treatment of alcoholism, it cannot repair or undo any damage caused by cirrhosis by itself. Kudzu may have an indirect beneficial effect on cirrhosis caused by alcoholism by reducing the cravings for a drink. Early in the disease, reducing the amount of alcohol in the bloodstream can give your liver time to recover and start to heal. As for other causes of liver cirrhosis, kudzu does not provide any benefit, either directly or indirectly.
References
- MayoClinic.com; "Cirrhosis"; January 2011
- "Prescription for Herbal Healing"; Phyllis A. Balch; 2002
- University of Michigan Health System: Kudzu; 2009
- Drug Digest: Kudzu
- Batsyr Center for Natural Health; "Kudzu Reduces Alcohol Consumption"; Kimberly Beauchamp; 2005
