Kuzu, what it is, how to use it and benefits
Kuzu is the Japanese name for the starch obtained from the Pueraria Lobata plant. It is also considered one of the 50 fundamental herbs used in Chinese medicine. In Japan it is recognized for presenting abundant nutritional virtues thanks to the isoflavones present mainly in puerarin. Let's learn a little more about how to use it and its benefits.
How to use Kuzu?
Kuzu, being a starch, can be used as a thickener in soups, sauces and creams. To use it in this way, it is recommended to dissolve one or two teaspoons first in cold water to prevent lumps from forming in soups or creams. Kuzu has the particularity of being neutral in its flavor, so it does not change the flavor of foods.
Another way to use it is to make homemade compotes, combined with fruit pulps such as apples, you can create rich and nutritious desserts. Likewise, first try to dissolve it in cold water to avoid lumps. It is important to take into account that the thickening process with kuzu is very fast, it usually does not last more than two minutes, which is why it is recommended to stir the food constantly so that it does not stick.
It can also be used as flour to coat foods and then fry them. In Japan, kuzu is frequently used in this way since, in addition to making foods crispier, they absorb less fat.
Benefits of Kuzu
It is used in the treatment of alcoholism
The Kuzu flower helps detoxify the liver and relieves the characteristic symptoms that occur after excessive consumption of alcoholic beverages. That is why in China it is highly recommended for hangovers.
This benefit of kuzu is convenient for people who are trying to eliminate or reduce alcohol consumption. Additionally, it has been shown that the root of the plant can prevent the desire for alcohol consumption.
Improves headaches
It is highly recommended for severe headaches such as migraines and even cluster headaches, a type of very severe headache that occurs with successive attacks.
Rebalancing of the intestinal flora
From the dried and ground kuzu roots, a starch is obtained that can be used for diarrhea as it helps rebalance the intestinal flora.
Used for vertigo
Kuzu is capable of relieving tinnitus that can cause vertigo when caused by stress or anxiety, as it acts as an excellent relaxant.