Ge Gen
Pueraria montana
Synonyms: Dolichos montanus, Pueraria lobata var. montana
โฏ TCM Properties
Discharges Exterior conditions and releases the muscles especially of the neck and upper back; Relieves Heat and generates fluids; Vents and discharges measles; Raises Spleen Yang and stops diarrhea; Alleviates symptoms of hypertension
Western Herbalism Properties
Gallery
Botanical Description
Pueraria montana is a fast-growing, deciduous, woody vine in the pea family (Fabaceae), climbing or trailing up to 30 m. Stems are thick and densely hairy. Leaves are large, trifoliate with broadly ovate leaflets 8-20 cm long, often lobed, and covered in fine hairs. Fragrant, pea-like, purple-red flowers are borne in erect racemes 10-30 cm long. Pods are hairy and flat. The tuberous root can grow to enormous size (several meters long and over 100 kg) and contains high concentrations of isoflavones and starch.
Forest margins, hillsides, roadsides, and scrubland; native to eastern Asia (China, Japan, Korea), invasively naturalized across the southeastern United States and other regions.
Pueraria montana is extremely vigorous and is considered one of the most problematic invasive plants in the southeastern United States. It is abundant throughout its native East Asian range. No conservation concerns; concern is rather about its invasive spread.
Cultural & Historical Context
Traditional Chinese Uses
Ge Gen (kudzu root) is a cool, sweet-pungent herb used to release the Exterior, generate fluids, and raise Spleen Qi. It is particularly effective for Wind-Cold or Wind-Heat patterns where fever accompanies stiffness and tension of the upper back and neck. It generates fluids to relieve Stomach Heat thirst, and its ascending quality is used to raise clear Yang and treat diarrhea from Spleen deficiency. Ge Gen also relaxes muscle tension and is a classical herb for hypertension and cervical spine conditions.
Chemistry & External Identifiers
Important Disclaimer
This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before using any herbal remedy, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, or taking medications.