Common Names: White Kwao Krua, Kwao Krua, Kwao Krua Kao
Scientific Names: Pueraria Mirifica
Pueraria mirifica, a plant native to Thailand and Myanmar, is known for its rich content of phytoestrogens, including deoxymiroestrol, daidzin, daidzein, genistin, genistein, and coumestrol. Traditionally used in Thai medicine as a rejuvenating herb, it is often called "Kwao Krua Kao" in Thailand, distinguishing it from other Kwao Krua variants like Butea superba (Red Kwao Krua). This herb, especially its tuberous root, has been used to promote youthfulness and vitality, particularly in older women, and is now part of regulated traditional Thai medicine practices.
Pueraria mirifica is celebrated for its potential health benefits, primarily as a natural estrogen replacement therapy due to its highly estrogenic properties, with some bioactives being more potent than estrogen itself. It's commonly used as a dietary supplement for managing menopausal symptoms like hot flashes and mood swings and is promoted for breast health and skin quality enhancement. However, most of the claims regarding its health benefits, including increasing breast size and improving skin, nail, and hair health, are not backed by substantial medical evidence. Moreover, the effectiveness of Pueraria mirifica for these uses needs more research, particularly blinded studies against a placebo, to validate its efficacy and safety.
It's important for individuals considering Pueraria mirifica for hormonal balance or menopausal symptoms to consult healthcare professionals and be cautious about dosages, given the lack of comprehensive research and potential risks equivalent to those of estrogen replacement therapy. Despite its traditional usage and popularity, more scientific evidence is required to fully understand and endorse the benefits and safety of Pueraria mirifica.