Saturday, September 19, 2009

Kudzu: The New Nutrient?


If an extract from kudzu root turns out to be as promising in humans as it in rats, then Selma and vicinity could become the Camelot of Kudzu!

Much of the Southeast is literally overrun with this vine, which most people view as a nuisance. But, scientists in Alabama and Iowa have reported its medicinal properties. Kudzu extract may help control metabolic syndrome, a condition that affects some 50 million people in the United States. (If you have a big belly that is not due to overeating or consumption of beer, then you might have metabolic syndrome!)

After just two months of receiving kudzu extract, rats showed lower levels of blood sugar, cholesterol and blood pressure, conditions that contribute to cardiovascular disease, obesity and diabetes.

6 comments:

Chattahoochee Valley Daily said...

Bring it on. Kudzu tea anyone?

Lowell said...

Well, that is just fascinating! I think we have lots of that vine in Florida, too...

Lucy B said...

I want to go out and gather some kudzu and just coook it and eat, has anyone ever done that, is there any danger if I do it wrong? Cool pic. Thanks, Lucy

Lucy B said...

Has anyone ever eaten any kudzu? Is there any danger if prepared wrong? Can it be eaten raw in salads? It is so plentiful. I dearly love the way the blooms smell. Beautiful picture!

Janet said...

Lucy, I have never heard of anyone eating kudzu other than the nectar from its blossoms in jelly.

Virginia said...

I"m not sure about eating kudzu but at least someone has found something useful to be done with it. I smelled kudzu( berry) scented candles. Ewww, smelled like grape!
V