Pueraria mirifica

Pueraria mirifica

Pueraria mirifica is a plant native to Southeast Asia, particularly Thailand. Traditionally, its use has not been well-documented; however, it has gained attention in recent research for potential health benefits. Scientific studies have identified four key biomarkers (ADH1B, GHR, NQO1, NR1I2) associated with hepatocellular carcinoma that may be influenced by Pueraria mirifica. Additionally, puerarin, a compound found in the plant, has shown promise in improving non-alcoholic fatty liver disease through its effects on the intestinal microenvironment and promoting mitochondrial fusion and autophagy in mice. Four non-glucan polysaccharides have also been isolated from Pueraria mirifica, with one (PMP-2) showing potential antioxidant and immunomodulatory activities. In sow diets, puerarin supplementation has increased piglet weight gain and improved sows' immune and antioxidant responses without affecting reproductive performance. To date, no major safety issues or drug interactions have been recorded for Pueraria mirifica.

At a glance
Best evidence
D
Cautions

Informational only. Traditional use does not mean proven effectiveness. Evidence and safety vary — check the cited sources.

What the science says

  • Puerarin supplementation in sow diets increased piglet weight gain and improved sows' immune and antioxidant responses without affecting reproductive performance. D PMID
  • Four non-glucan polysaccharides were isolated from Pueraria mirifica, with PMP-2 showing potential antioxidant and immunomodulatory activities. D PMID
  • Puerarin improved non-alcoholic fatty liver disease by remodeling the intestinal microenvironment, promoting mitochondrial fusion and autophagy. D PMID
  • The study identified four key biomarkers (ADH1B, GHR, NQO1, NR1I2) associated with hepatocellular carcinoma. D PMID

Frequently asked questions

What is Pueraria mirifica?

Pueraria mirifica (Pueraria mirifica) is a plant documented in FolkKB's traditional-medicine reference, drawn from sourced literature and cross-checked against the evidence.

What does the scientific evidence say about Pueraria mirifica?

4 sourced findings are recorded for Pueraria mirifica; the strongest carries evidence grade D. For example: Puerarin supplementation in sow diets increased piglet weight gain and improved sows' immune and antioxidant responses without affecting reproductive performance.

How strong is the evidence for Pueraria mirifica?

The strongest finding for Pueraria mirifica carries evidence grade D — preliminary or traditional. Grades run A (strongest) to D (preliminary or traditional).

Is Pueraria mirifica safe? What are the side effects?

No major safety issues are recorded for Pueraria mirifica in our sources, but the data may be incomplete. Consult a qualified professional before use.

Does Pueraria mirifica interact with medications?

No drug interactions are recorded for Pueraria mirifica in our sources. This does not rule them out — check with a pharmacist.

Is Pueraria mirifica a proven treatment?

No. FolkKB is informational only. Traditional use and early findings are not proof of efficacy or safety — consult a qualified professional and never self-treat.

Sources

  1. T2 The isolation, characterization and biological activities of the non-glucan polysaccharides from the high-starch-content plant Pueraria mirifica. literature abstract metadata
  2. T2 Dietary Puerarin Supplementation Improves Immune Response and Antioxidant Capacity of Sows. literature abstract metadata
  3. T2 Bioinformatics combined with network pharmacology and experimental validation to identify key biomarkers of hepatocellular carcinoma and corresponding compounds in Radix Astragali and Pueraria Mirifica. literature abstract metadata
  4. T2 Puerarin improves MASLD by remodeling intestinal microenvironment to promote mitochondrial fusion and autophagy. literature abstract metadata