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Dietary supplement

Full Spectrum Kudzu Root 500 mg Ingredients & Drug Interactions

by Swanson

Capsule Category: Botanical
Most serious interaction: Moderate
The interaction bottom line Most serious interaction: Moderate

Full Spectrum Kudzu Root 500 mg is a dietary supplement by Swanson with 1 active ingredient. Its ingredients are commonly taken for alcohol cravings and reduction, menopausal symptoms, heart and blood vessel health.Based on those ingredients, 584 medications have a known interaction with it, the most serious rated moderate. The ingredients most likely to interact are Kudzu. Use the checker below to test your specific medication, or read the full HelloPharmacist Interaction Report.

HelloPharmacist Scorecard of Full Spectrum Kudzu Root 500 mg by Swanson

Our pharmacy team’s full take, with four database checks built into the cards below — a summary of what is known, not a grade of the product itself.

From our pharmacy team — supplement deep dive

What’s inside

Full disclosure
Ingredient Transparency · database check
Full

Every active ingredient lists its own amount on the label.

Why this rating?
  • The label discloses an exact amount for 1 of its 1 active ingredient.
  • No proprietary blends here — you can verify the dose of every single component.

This product contains one active ingredient: kudzu, a root extract at 500 mg per capsule. Kudzu has been studied for alcohol use disorder and hay fever, among other uses.

The capsule itself is made from gelatin and microcrystalline cellulose (a common binder).

Does it work?

Not established
Evidence for Intended Use · database check
By FDA rules, dietary supplements can’t claim to treat, cure, or prevent disease — so labels speak in careful marketing language. We discern each product’s intended use from its name, label claims, and label statements, then grade the clinical evidence for that use. How these ratings are computed
Not established

The graded evidence we hold for these ingredients covers different conditions than the ones this product is marketed for, so there's no established rating for its stated use — see Kudzu's own graded uses on its monograph.

Why this rating?
  • The label markets this product for: cardiovascular and liver health, women's health.
  • We looked for evidence on: Angina, Coronary heart disease (CHD), Heart failure, Hypertension, Menopausal symptoms, Postmenopausal conditions — and 2 related terms.
  • The closest evidence on file: Kudzu is rated "Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate" for Angina (Natural Medicines).
  • Also on file: Kudzu is rated "Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate" for Coronary heart disease (CHD), Heart failure, Hypertension, Menopausal symptoms, and more.

Kudzu is possibly effective for alcohol use disorder based on available evidence. For hay fever, angina, and back pain, the evidence we hold is insufficient to say whether it works.

If you're considering kudzu for one of these uses, talk it through with your pharmacist or doctor.

The evidence, ingredient by ingredient Kudzu

How safe is it?

Well-documented data
Safety Information · database check
Well characterized

Adverse-effect, pregnancy, and general safety data are on file for most of these ingredients.

Why this rating?
  • We hold adverse-effect (side-effect) data for 1 of the 1 matched ingredient.
  • Pregnancy & breastfeeding safety ratings cover 1 of 1.
  • General safety write-ups exist for 1 of 1.
  • Remember: this measures how much safety information exists. Thin data is not the same as being safe.

Kudzu is generally well tolerated in short-term studies, though long-term safety hasn't been firmly established. In clinical trials, some people reported nausea, indigestion, bloating, dizziness, and rash, but these occurred at rates no higher than placebo.

One case of a more serious allergic reaction (rash spreading across the body) has been reported with a combination product containing kudzu. Due to possible hormone-like effects and lack of safety data, kudzu is not recommended in pregnancy.

There is too little information to recommend it while breastfeeding. Talk with your doctor or pharmacist if you're pregnant, trying to conceive, or nursing.

Side effects, ingredient by ingredient Kudzu

Meds to double-check

Moderate interaction found
Known Interaction Concern · database check
Moderate identified

The most serious documented interaction for these ingredients is Moderate. Check your medications for a personalized result.

Why this rating?
  • 1 of the 1 matched ingredient can interact with medications — Kudzu.
  • The most serious interaction on file is rated Moderate.
  • Some involve high-stakes drug classes: anticoagulant / antiplatelet drugs; diabetes medications.
  • For scale: 585 individual medications appear in the full list. A big number alone doesn't make a product dangerous — what matters is whether YOUR medication is on it, so run yours through the interaction checker on this page.

Before you take this, double-check with us if you're on methotrexate, blood thinners or antiplatelet drugs, estrogen therapy, tamoxifen, caffeine-containing medications, liver-taxing drugs, or antidiabetes medications. These are the medication types where kudzu has documented interactions.

Check your own medication Run your meds through the checker above

The bottom line

Scorecard at a glanceFully disclosed formula with no established evidence rating for its marketed use. Moderate medication interactions have been identified, and safety information is well characterized.

Kudzu may be worth considering if you're dealing with alcohol use disorder and want a plant-based option. If you take methotrexate, blood thinners, estrogen therapy, or diabetes medications, you'll need to check with your pharmacist first.

Pregnant and breastfeeding people should avoid it.

Educational only — not medical advice; always confirm with your pharmacist. Our editorial policy · How we use AI

Assessment coverage: 1 of 1 active ingredient matched to our full ingredient reviews (monographs). Based on the product label dated Oct 24, 2024.

This Scorecard evaluates available label information, ingredient evidence, and known medication-safety considerations. It does not independently verify product identity, purity, potency, contamination, or manufacturing quality. How these ratings are computed

At a glance

General information

Key facts about Full Spectrum Kudzu Root 500 mg, straight from the product label.

Brand Swanson
Barcode (UPC) 087614110349
Net contents 60 Capsule(s)
Market status On market
Date entered into DSLD Oct 24, 2024
DSLD ID 308566
Product type Botanical
Supplement form Capsule
Dietary claims / uses All Other, Structure/Function
Intended target group(s) Adult (18 - 50 Years)
From the label
Everything in this section is reproduced from the manufacturer’s own product label — it’s the label speaking, not HelloPharmacist. We show it so you can see exactly what the maker states; we don’t verify or endorse those statements.

Supplement Facts

The label details for Full Spectrum Kudzu Root 500 mg by Swanson, sourced from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database.

Supplement Facts

Daily Value (DV) Target Group(s):
Adults and children 4 or more years of age
Minimum serving Sizes:
1 Capsule(s)
Maximum serving Sizes:
1 Capsule(s)
Servings per container
60
UPC/BARCODE
087614110349
IngredientAmount% DV
Kudzu500 mg--

Other ingredients: Gelatin, Microcrystalline Cellulose

Tap any ingredient to jump to its full detail below.

Label statements
These statements are the manufacturer’s wording, reproduced from the product label — the label is saying it, not HelloPharmacist. We don’t verify or endorse them.
Formulation

Traditional cardiovascular and liver tonic Traditional support for women's health Full Spectrum whole root formula

Cardiovascular and liver support

Brand IP Statement(s)

Science-backed quality since 1969

Suggested/Recommended/Usage/Directions

Suggested use: As a dietary supplement, take one capsule one to two times per day with water.

Precautions

Warning: For adults only. Keep out of reach of children.

Consult your physician before using this or any product if you are pregnant or nursing, taking medication or have a medical condition.

Do not use if seal is broken.

Storage

Store in a cool, dry place.

FDA Disclaimer Statement

These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

FDA Statement of Identity

Herbal Supplement

Formula

Full Spectrum Kudzu Root 500 mg per capsule

See for yourself

Full Spectrum Kudzu Root 500 mg by Swanson label

The label scan from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database. Tap to enlarge.

What’s inside

The Ingredients in Full Spectrum Kudzu Root 500 mg by Swanson

This is the 1 active ingredient this product is made of. Select it to open its full monograph.

Serving size1 Capsule(s) Dosage formCapsule Servings per container60 Amounts shown are per serving.

Kudzu

Interacts with
584 drugs
500 mg per serving

Kudzu is a fast-growing vine whose root has long been used in traditional Chinese medicine and is now studied mostly for reducing alcohol intake. Earl...

Kudzu monograph & interactions

Other (inactive) ingredients: Gelatin, Microcrystalline Cellulose. These complete the product’s ingredient list but are not active constituents.

Interaction report

Full Spectrum Kudzu Root 500 mg by Swanson Drug Interactions

Want to check YOUR meds against Full Spectrum Kudzu Root 500 mg?

Ask about interactions with your drugs in plain English — “Can I take it with lisinopril?” — and we find you the answer in seconds, ingredient by ingredient.

Go to the checker
584Drugs
512 Moderate 72 Minor

Ingredients driving the most interactions

Kudzu 584

Each ingredient & the kinds of drugs it affects

For each ingredient in Full Spectrum Kudzu Root 500 mg with known interactions, here are the types of medications it can affect. Open any type for the detail — or search your exact drug in the checker above.

Kudzu7 drug types · 584 drugs

Anticoagulant/Antiplatelet Drugs

Theoretically, kudzu may increase the risk of bleeding if used with antiplatelet or anticoagulant drugs.
Kudzu isoflavones are reported to have antiplatelet activity.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Caffeine

Theoretically, taking kudzu with caffeine might increase levels of caffeine.
In healthy males injected with the kudzu constituent puerarin, caffeine clearance and metabolism is inhibited. This effect has been attributed to inhibition of cytochrome P450 1A2 (CYP1A2) enzyme, which is involved in caffeine metabolism. It is unclear if taking kudzu orally would have this same effect.

Likelihood Probable Evidence D
Estrogens

Theoretically, kudzu might alter the effects of estrogen therapy.
Some research suggests that kudzu has estrogenic effects. This may enhance or inhibit the effects of estrogen therapy.

Likelihood Possible Evidence B
Hepatotoxic Drugs

Theoretically, concomitant use might have additive hepatotoxic effects.
There is some concern that kudzu can adversely affect the liver.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Methotrexate (Trexall, Others)

Theoretically, taking kudzu with methotrexate might increase the risk of methotrexate toxicity.
Preclinical research suggests that kudzu extract greatly reduces the elimination and increases the toxicity of methotrexate. Kudzu might inhibit organic anion transporters (OATs) that are responsible for hepatobiliary and renal excretion of anions, similar to the interaction between methotrexate and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Tamoxifen (Nolvadex)

Theoretically, kudzu might interfere with tamoxifen activity.
Some research suggests that kudzu may have estrogenic effects.

Likelihood Possible Evidence B
Antidiabetes Drugs

Theoretically, taking kudzu with antidiabetes drugs might increase the risk of hypoglycemia.
Kudzu might lower blood glucose levels and have additive effects in patients treated with antidiabetic agents. The dose of diabetes medications might need to be adjusted.

Likelihood Unlikely Evidence D
The maker

Brand information

Manufacturer and brand details for Full Spectrum Kudzu Root 500 mg, from the product label.

Swanson

See all Swanson products
Name
Swanson Health Products
City
Fargo
State
ND
ZipCode
58104
Phone Number
1-800-437-4148
Web Address
swanson.com
Pharmacist Counseling Corner

Full Spectrum Kudzu Root 500 mg by Swanson: Common Questions

Does Full Spectrum Kudzu Root 500 mg by Swanson interact with any medications?
Yes. Based on its ingredients, Full Spectrum Kudzu Root 500 mg has a known interaction with 584 medications. Use the checker to see how it interacts with a specific drug.
How can one product interact with so many drugs?
Full Spectrum Kudzu Root 500 mg contains a single active ingredient, and that one ingredient can interact with many different medications on its own. We check it against each medication and show the mechanism responsible.
Where does this information come from?
The product label data comes from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database (DSLD); the interaction data is built on the Natural Medicines database and reviewed by HelloPharmacist pharmacists.
Is kudzu safe to take while pregnant or breastfeeding?
No — the safety data advises against it. Kudzu has possible hormone-like effects and not enough safety information for either pregnancy or breastfeeding. Talk with your doctor or pharmacist for guidance based on your situation.
What side effects might I experience?
In clinical trials, nausea, indigestion, bloating, dizziness, and rash were reported, but they happened at about the same rate as placebo. One case of a more serious allergic reaction has been reported. Stop and call your pharmacist or doctor if you develop signs of an allergic reaction.
Does kudzu actually work for alcohol use disorder?
Kudzu is possibly effective for alcohol use disorder based on the evidence we hold. That means some research supports it, but the evidence isn't airtight. Your pharmacist or doctor can help you figure out if it's right for your situation.
Why can't I take kudzu if I'm on methotrexate?
Kudzu may slow how your body clears methotrexate, which could let it build up and increase the risk of side effects. This is serious enough that you need to talk with your pharmacist or doctor before using kudzu if you take methotrexate.
How long is it safe to take kudzu?
Kudzu is generally well tolerated in short-term studies, but long-term safety hasn't been well established. If you're thinking of taking it for more than a few weeks, check with your pharmacist about what we know and don't know.

Written and reviewed by the HelloPharmacist editorial staff. Our editorial policy

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Ask a pharmacist

Label information is sourced from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database and reflects the product version on file; always read your actual product label. This page is for education only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Confirm with your pharmacist or doctor before combining supplements and medications.

Full Spectrum Kudzu Root 500 mg label
Go deeper

The Full Monographs Behind Full Spectrum Kudzu Root 500 mg’s Ingredients

Every ingredient we hold a full HelloPharmacist monograph for — uses, evidence, safety, and the complete interaction list.

Sources

Sources & How We Checked

Full Spectrum Kudzu Root 500 mg's label data comes from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database; the ingredient interaction data is from the Natural Medicines database, reviewed by our pharmacists.

Content is written and reviewed by licensed HelloPharmacist pharmacists. See our data sources and editorial standards for how this information is built and checked.

The 21 references behind this product’s interaction data

Every citation that drives the interaction findings for this product’s ingredients, from the evidence-graded Natural Medicines (TRC Healthcare) database. Open an ingredient to browse its citations — links open the study on PubMed or the publisher’s site.

Kudzu 21 references
  1. Woo J, Lau E, Ho SC, et al. Comparison of Pueraria lobata with hormone replacement therapy in treating the adverse health consequences of menopause. Menopause 2003;10:352-61. PubMed
  2. Akita H, Sowa J, Makiura M, et al. Maculopapular drug eruption due to the Japanese herbal medicine Kakkonto (kudzu or arrowroot decoction). Contact Dermatitis 2003;48:348-9. PubMed
  3. Luo ZR, Zheng B. [Effect of Puerarin on platelet activating factors CD63 and CD62P, plasminogen activator inhibitor and C-reactive protein in patients with unstable angia pectoris]. Zhongguo Zhong Xi Yi Jie He Za Zhi 2001;21:31-3 .
  4. Lee KT, Sohn IC, Kim DH, et al. Hypoglycemic and hypolipidemic effects of tectorigenin and kaikasaponin III in the streptozotocin-lnduced diabetic rat and their antioxidant activity in vitro. Arch Pharm Res 2000;23:461-6.
  5. Yu Z, Zhang G, Zhao H. [Effects of Puerariae isoflavone on blood viscosity, thrombosis and platelet function]. Zhong Yao Cai 1997;20:468-9.
  6. Hsu FL, Liu IM, Kuo DH, et al. Antihyperglycemic effect of puerarin in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats. J Nat Prod 2003;66:788-92. PubMed
  7. Chiang HM, Fang SH, Wen KC, et al. Life-threatening interaction between the root extract of Pueraria lobata and methotrexate in rats. Toxicol Appl Pharmacol 2005;209:263-8.
  8. Zheng, J., Chen, B., Jiang, B., Zeng, L., Tang, Z. R., Fan, L., and Zhou, H. H. The effects of puerarin on CYP2D6 and CYP1A2 activities in vivo. Arch Pharm Res 2010;33(2):243-246. PubMed
  9. Hsu, H. H., Chang, C. K., Su, H. C., Liu, I. M., and Cheng, J. T. Stimulatory effect of puerarin on alpha1A-adrenoceptor to increase glucose uptake into cultured C2C12 cells of mice. Planta Med 2002;68(11):999-1003.
  10. Zheng, G., Zhang, X., Zheng, J., Meng, Q., and Zheng, D. [Estrogen-like effects of puerarin and total isoflavones from Pueraria lobata]. Zhong.Yao Cai. 2002;25(8):566-568.
  11. Qi, B. L. and Qi, B. M. [Effect of the purariae-isofiavones on estrogen level in normal and ovariectomized rats]. Zhongguo Zhong.Yao Za Zhi. 2002;27(11):850-852.
  12. Akita, H., Sowa, J., Makiura, M., Akamatsu, H., and Matsunaga, K. Maculopapular drug eruption due to the Japanese herbal medicine Kakkonto (kudzu or arrowroot decoction). Contact Dermatitis 2003;48(6):348-349. PubMed
  13. Manonai, J., Chittacharoen, A., Theppisai, U., and Theppisai, H. Effect of Pueraria mirifica on vaginal health. Menopause. 2007;14(5):919-924. PubMed
  14. Chandeying, V. and Sangthawan, M. Efficacy comparison of Pueraria mirifica (PM) against conjugated equine estrogen (CEE) with/without medroxyprogesterone acetate (MPA) in the treatment of climacteric symptoms in perimenopausal women: phase III study. J M
  15. Virojchaiwong, P., Suvithayasiri, V., and Itharat, A. Comparison of Pueraria mirifica 25 and 50 mg for menopausal symptoms. Arch.Gynecol.Obstet. 2011;284(2):411-419. PubMed
  16. Hou, Q., Ao, X., Li, G., and Zhang, Y. [Puerarin combined with avandia for diabetic nephropathy]. Zhong.Nan.Da.Xue Xue Bao Yi Xue Ban. 2012;37(1):73-77.
  17. Kim HJ, Kim H, Ahn JH, Suk JH. Liver injury induced by herbal extracts containing mistletoe and kudzu. J Altern Complement Med 2015;21(3):180-5. PubMed
  18. Santosh N, Mohan K, Royana S, Yamini TB. Hepatotoxicity of tubers of Indian Kudzu (Pueraria tuberosa) in rats. Food Chem Toxicol. 2010 Apr;48(4):1066-71. PubMed
  19. Teschke R, Zhang L, Long H, Schwarzenboeck A, Schmidt-Taenzer W, Genthner A, Wolff A, Frenzel C, Schulze J, Eickhoff A. Traditional Chinese Medicine and herbal hepatotoxicity: a tabular compilation of reported cases. Ann Hepatol. 2015 Jan-Feb;14(1):7-19. DOI
  20. Wang D, Qiu L, Wu X, Wei H, Xu F. Evaluation of kudzu root extract-induced hepatotoxicity. J Ethnopharmacol. 2015 Dec 24;176:321-6. PubMed
  21. Warinsiriruk P, Tantitham C, Cherdshewasart W, Shobeiri SA, Manonai J. Effects of Pueraria mirifica on vaginal artery vascularization in postmenopausal women with genitourinary syndrome of menopause. Maturitas 2022;160:4-10. PubMed

See these in context on the Kudzu monograph →

Parts of this content are provided by the Therapeutic Research Center, LLC.

DISCLAIMER: Currently this does not check for drug-drug interactions. This is not an all-inclusive comprehensive list of potential interactions and is for informational purposes only. Not all interactions are known or well-reported in the scientific literature, and new interactions are continually being reported. Input is needed from a qualified healthcare provider including a pharmacist before starting any therapy. Application of clinical judgment is necessary.

© 2021 Therapeutic Research Center, LLC

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