Pueraria mirifica is a plant which belongs to the family Papilionaceae (Leguminosae.) The Pueraria mirifica plant grows only in the forest regions of northern Thailand. Although though there have been reports of findings of plants in the same family of “Pueraria” in other Asian countries, these plants are of different species and possess different qualities from Pueraria mirifica.
Pueraria mirifica is a climbing plant, and typically grows in a mountainous area by tiding with trees. There are three small leaves on each branch and purple blooms on the top. The tubers on its root are round, and stay underground. When cut, a white liquid (like skim milk) comes out. The active ingredients of the plant are found at the roots from which extracts are made.
The root of the plant has been used in Thailand for more than 700 years, and has also been called Kwao Krua and Thai Kudzu. Legend has touted the anti-aging properties of using this plant medicine for centuries.
