I used kudzu for a while and did see an improvement in my ability to resist urges to drink. But I found that by doing the anti-candida diet, and the P&B shakes coupled with antifungals like forumula SF722 work much better than kudzu.

There are a few companies that make kudzu capsules & extracts, so just try one and see what happens. To answer your question about time of effectiveness, I think the stuff works immediately.

The best thing to do is to just start trying out these different remedies to find the one that works best for you. It's important to realize that these herbs, etc. are good for dealing with the --physical-- side of the addiction, but they're not a magic bullet -- they will only help you improve your chances of staying sober. For example, kudzu or anti-fungals won't get rid of a lousy family situation, or undo some bad abuse that might have happened to you at an earlier age. But they will significantly improve your chances to stay sober -- especially if you really want to.

I believe kudzu is just an aid, it will not cure alcoholism! The article below states that the reason kudzu helps is its high alkalizing properties!
Most alcoholics are highly acidic thus the candida problems as well!
Alkalizing and remineralizing will not only help the alcoholic ,but the candida sufferer snd the hypoclycemic as well, both known ailments of the alcoholic!
-DC+
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For this reason, kudzu is a valuable addition to our daily food. Kudzu has a very high alkaline rating along with kelp, parsley, watercress, Watermelon and rock melon. Kudzu is made into a very soothing broth, called kudzu cream, which, it is said, helps to develop an alkaline bloodstream and constitution, and will also work on digestive and intestinal disorders, and a host of other health problems. The traditional way to drink kudzu, to strengthen digestion, relieve fatigue and increase vitality, was to dilute 1 teasp. of kudzu in a little cold water, and then add enough cold water to make a cupful. Bring mixture to the boil, stirring continually, simmer until the liquid turns transparent. The flavour is bland, and gives a cooling energy to the body. This drink can also be drunk, adding 1/8 teasp. of grated fresh ginger and 1 umeboshi plum, to give a stronger action.



http://www.herbsarespecial.com.au/free-herb-information/kudzu.html