Overview, Uses, Side Effects, Precautions, Interactions, Dosing and Reviews

Overview

Kava is a beverage or extract made from the Piper methysticum plant. In the South Pacific, it’s a popular drink that is used in ceremonies for relaxation.

The name “kava” comes from the Polynesian word “awa,” which means bitter. Kava affects the brain and other parts of the central nervous system. Chemicals called kavalactones that are found in kava are believed to be responsible for its effects.

People commonly use kava for anxiety. It’s also used for stress, withdrawal from drugs called benzodiazepines, sleeping problems, and many other purposes, but there is no good scientific evidence to support many of these uses.

Cases of liver damage and even some deaths have been linked to kava use. Because of this, kava was taken off the market in Europe and Canada in the early 2000s. But after reviewing the evidence, most countries have allowed kava to return to the market. Kava was never taken off the market in the US.

Uses & Effectiveness ?

Possibly Effective for

• Anxiety. Taking kava by mouth for at least 5 weeks seems to reduce anxiety and might work as well as some prescription anti-anxiety medications.

Possibly Ineffective for

• A type of persistent anxiety marked by exaggerated worry and tension (generalized anxiety disorder or GAD). Taking kava by mouth doesn’t seem to improve symptoms of GAD.

There is interest in using kava for a number of other purposes, but there isn’t enough reliable information to say whether it might be helpful.

Side Effects

When taken by mouth: Kava is possibly safe when taken for up to 6 months. Using kava can make it difficult to drive or operate machinery safely. Do not take kava before you plan on driving. “Driving-under-the-influence” citations have been issued to people driving erratically after drinking large amounts of kava tea.

People might have heard that using kava can cause liver damage. This seems to be rare and is most often linked to long-term use of very high doses. Most people who have used kava haven’t experienced liver toxicity. Also, past cases of liver toxicity might not be due to kava. Other factors may have contributed to these toxic effects.

Special Precautions and Warnings

When taken by mouth: Kava is possibly safe when taken for up to 6 months. Using kava can make it difficult to drive or operate machinery safely. Do not take kava before you plan on driving. “Driving-under-the-influence” citations have been issued to people driving erratically after drinking large amounts of kava tea.

People might have heard that using kava can cause liver damage. This seems to be rare and is most often linked to long-term use of very high doses. Most people who have used kava haven’t experienced liver toxicity. Also, past cases of liver toxicity might not be due to kava. Other factors may have contributed to these toxic effects. Pregnancy and breast-feeding: Kava is possibly unsafe when taken by mouth while pregnant or breast-feeding. It might affect the uterus while pregnant. Also, some of the chemicals in kava can pass into breast milk and might hurt a breast-fed infant. Avoid using it.

Liver disease: People who have liver problems should avoid kava. It might make liver disease worse.

Parkinson disease: People who have Parkinson disease should avoid kava. It might make this condition worse.

Surgery: Kava affects the central nervous system. It might increase the effects of anesthesia and other medications used during and after surgery. Stop using kava at least 2 weeks before a scheduled surgery.

Interactions ?

Major Interaction

Do not take this combination

• Kava might cause sleepiness and slowed breathing. Some medications, called sedatives, can also cause sleepiness and slowed breathing. Taking kava with sedative medications might cause breathing problems and/or too much sleepiness.

Moderate Interaction

Be cautious with this combination

• Some medications are changed and broken down by the liver. Kava might change how quickly the liver breaks down these medications. This could change the effects and side effects of these medications.

• Some medications are changed and broken down by the liver. Kava might change how quickly the liver breaks down these medications. This could change the effects and side effects of these medications.

• Some medications are changed and broken down by the liver. Kava might change how quickly the liver breaks down these medications. This could change the effects and side effects of these medications.

• Some medications are moved in and out of cells by pumps. Kava might change how these pumps work and change how much medication stays in the body. In some cases, this might change the effects and side effects of a medication.

• Kava might harm the liver. Some medications can also harm the liver. Taking kava along with a medication that can harm the liver might increase the risk of liver damage.

• Haloperidol is broken down by the liver. Kava might decrease how quickly the liver breaks down this medication. This might increase the effects and side effects of haloperidol.

• Ropinirole is broken down by the liver. Kava might decrease how quickly the liver breaks down this medication. This might increase the effects and side effects of ropinirole.

• Using kava with alcohol might increase the effects of alcohol on the central nervous system. This might increase the risk for some side effects, such as drowsiness and mood changes. Also, kava might harm the liver. Taking kava along with alcohol might increase the risk of liver damage.

Minor Interaction

Be watchful with this combination

• Some medications are changed and broken down by the liver. Kava might change how quickly the liver breaks down these medications. This could change the effects and side effects of these medications.

• Some medications are changed and broken down by the liver. Kava might change how quickly the liver breaks down these medications. This could change the effects and side effects of these medications.

• Some medications are changed and broken down by the liver. Kava might change how quickly the liver breaks down these medications. This could change the effects and side effects of these medications.

Dosing

Kava is available in many different types of products, including teas and other beverages. Kava extracts have most often been used by adults in doses of 150-400 mg by mouth daily for up to 2 years. Speak with a healthcare provider to find out what type of product and dose might be best for a specific condition.

View References

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CONDITIONS OF USE AND IMPORTANT INFORMATION: This information is meant to supplement, not replace advice from your doctor or healthcare provider and is not meant to cover all possible uses, precautions, interactions or adverse effects. This information may not fit your specific health circumstances. Never delay or disregard seeking professional medical advice from your doctor or other qualified health care provider because of something you have read on WebMD. You should always speak with your doctor or health care professional before you start, stop, or change any prescribed part of your health care plan or treatment and to determine what course of therapy is right for you.

This copyrighted material is provided by Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database Consumer Version. Information from this source is evidence-based and objective, and without commercial influence. For professional medical information on natural medicines, see Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database Professional Version.
© Therapeutic Research Faculty 2020.

Kava – Better Health Channel

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Summary

Read the full fact sheet

• Kava is a drug made from the ground roots of a plant found in the South Pacific.
• It is taken as a drink, supplement or extract.
• Long-term kava use may be associated with a range of problems including apathy, weight loss and liver damage.

Kava is a drug made from the ground roots of the plant Piper methysticum, a member of the pepper family that also includes black pepper. It is a native plant found in the South Pacific.

Kava can be taken as a drink or as a supplement or extract. Traditionally the root is crushed, ground or powdered and soaked in water to be drunk as a tea. This tea is often consumed socially and as part of traditional ceremonies and cultural practices throughout the South Pacific Islands.

In small doses, the effects of kava include muscle relaxation, sleepiness and feelings of wellbeing. However, long-term use of kava can lead to a range of health problems, including malnutrition, weight loss and apathy.

Australian laws and kava imports

From 1 December 2021 kava can be imported into Australia for commercial purposes with no limit on quantity.

People aged over 18 years entering Australia can bring in up to four kilograms of kava in their accompanied baggage (although local restrictions mean that kava cannot be brought into the Northern Territory).

The Commonwealth Government will monitor and evaluate the relaxing of laws for importing kava for two years, commencing 1 December 2021.

Read more about kava import restrictionsExternal Link.

Kava – effects on the body

The active chemicals in kava are known as kavalactones. Variations in growing conditions (such as soil type and the amount of sunlight and water available) and different varieties of plant mean that the strength of kavalactones can vary widely.

The strength of a dose of kava also depends on how the drink is prepared and how much powdered kava is added to the water.

Kava is a central nervous system depressant. Even though there is no alcohol in kava, it can produce similar symptoms to drunkenness, including difficulty with balance, and slurred speech.

The effects of kava on your body can depend on:

• your body size
• your general health
• if you have taken kava before
• the strength and amount taken
• if you are taking other drugs at the same time.

Common effects include:

• for small doses – relaxed muscles, sleepiness, feelings of wellbeing and relaxation, mild loss of feeling in the throat and mouth, appetite loss
• for larger doses – dilated pupils, reddened eyes, nausea, drowsiness, reduced muscle control (ataxia).

Kava is dangerous for some people

It’s dangerous to take kava in combination with other psychoactive drugs or alcohol. There is little information on how kava interacts with other medication, so it’s best to avoid kava if you are taking any prescription medicine.

Do not take kava if you:

• are pregnant
• are breastfeeding
• are driving or operating heavy machinery
• are currently taking pharmaceutical medicine
• drink large quantities of alcohol
• have a pre-existing heart, lung or liver condition.

Children should not take kava.

Problems from long-term use of kava

In the long term, kava use may cause a wide range of problems including:

• breathing difficulties
• visual changes, including sensitivity to light (photophobia)
• slight alterations to blood cells, including white and red blood cells, and platelets
• liver damage
• compromised immune function
• kidney damage
• contact dermatitis – causing scaly, flaky rash on the skin
• appetite loss, leading to malnutrition and weight loss
• loss of drive and motivation
• worsened symptoms of pre-existing mental illnesses such as schizophrenia.

Kava withdrawal risk is low

There is no evidence to suggest people who regularly drink large doses of kava become dependent. Because of this there doesn’t seem to be a risk of withdrawal if a person suddenly stops taking kava. However, medical supervision is recommended.

Medicinal uses of kava

In 2003, products containing kava were banned in most European countries, because of concerns about its possible toxic effects on the liver. In Australia, all products containing kava were temporarily withdrawn, following the death of one person from liver failure.

This restriction was withdrawn after a review by the Therapeutic Goods Administration in 2005External Link. As a result of that review, products with standardised amounts of kava, such as in supplements and teabags, became available in Australia.

Products with kava can be used for stress, anxiety and insomnia. If you are thinking about taking kava for medicinal purposes, be sure to contact a healthcare professional first.

Seek medical advice for kava symptoms

Immediately seek medical advice if you experience any symptoms while taking preparations containing kava. Symptoms may include:

• appetite loss
• extreme tiredness
• raised body temperature
• nausea and vomiting
• abdominal pains
• brown-coloured urine
• unusual bruises or bleeding
• yellowing of the eyes or skin (jaundice).

Where to get help

• Your GP (doctor)
• Alcohol and Drug FoundationExternal Link – list of help and support services in Australia, Tel. 1300 858 584
• DirectLineExternal Link – for 24-hour confidential drug and alcohol telephone counselling, information and referral, Tel. 1800 888 236

• Rychetnik L, Madronio CM, 2010, ‘The health and social effects of drinking water-based infusions of kava: a review of the evidence’External Link, Drug and Alcohol Review, vol. 30, no. 1, pp. 74–83
• Clouatre, DL 2004, Kava kava: examining new reports of toxicityExternal Link, Toxicology Letters, vol. 150, no. 1, pp. 85–96
• Lucie, R & Christine M., M 2011, The health and social effects of drinking water-based infusions of kava: a review of the evidenceExternal Link, Drug and Alcohol Review, no. 1, p. 74
• Krueger GP, Leaman HM, Bergoffen, G, et al. 2011 ‘Effects of psychoactive chemicals on commercial driver health and performance: stimulants, hypnotics, nutritional, and other supplements’External Link, Transportation Research Board, USA.

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Content disclaimer

Content on this website is provided for information purposes only. Information about a therapy, service, product or treatment does not in any way endorse or support such therapy, service, product or treatment and is not intended to replace advice from your doctor or other registered health professional. The information and materials contained on this website are not intended to constitute a comprehensive guide concerning all aspects of the therapy, product or treatment described on the website. All users are urged to always seek advice from a registered health care professional for diagnosis and answers to their medical questions and to ascertain whether the particular therapy, service, product or treatment described on the website is suitable in their circumstances. The State of Victoria and the Department of Health shall not bear any liability for reliance by any user on the materials contained on this website.

Reviewed on: 12-08-2022

Kava root: more risks than benefits?

Kava root – what is it?

If there was a substance that could fight cancer cells and still have side effects, would you like to know more about it? If yes, then you should get to know the kava root better.

Naturally, you will be wondering if it really will do more good than harm? Let’s look at all the advantages and disadvantages of this controversial medicinal plant in more detail.

What is kava?

Kava, or intoxicating pepper ( Piper methysticum ), is a plant from the Pacific Islands. The name “kava” comes from the Tongan and Marquesas cultures. This plant is also called “aua” (Hawaii), “ava” (Samoa), “yakuona” (Fiji), “sakau” (Pohnpei), and “malok” or “malogu” (Vanuatu regions).

The roots of the plant are used to make a drink with sedative, anesthetic and entheogenic properties. Kava is consumed in all Pacific cultures of Polynesia, including Hawaii, Vanuatu, Melanesia, and parts of Micronesia. Its active ingredients are called kavalactones.

Pepper Root has been used in Oceania for centuries as a medicine, as well as a relaxing and ceremonial drink. However, it is worth knowing that it has a number of features.

On the one hand, it is considered a natural cancer treatment that blocks tumor growth and has a chemopreventive effect. On the other hand, there is evidence of damage and development of liver diseases, as well as deaths, which may be associated with the ingestion of kava root.

Health benefits

Intoxicating Pepper Root is most commonly used to combat anxiety, stress, restlessness, and to treat insomnia. It is also used for symptoms of ADHD, epilepsy, psychosis, depression, migraines, chronic fatigue syndrome, colds and other respiratory infections, tuberculosis, muscle pain, and cancer prevention. Kava root can be effective for urinary tract infections, uterine pain and inflammation, sexually transmitted diseases, menstrual discomfort, and to increase sexual arousal.

And that’s not all. Kava root is applied to the affected areas of the skin in various skin diseases such as leprosy, to speed up wound healing and as a pain reliever. It also helps with eye problems.

Pepper is also used to make toothpaste and medicated mouthwash. It is surprising that with such a wide range of possibilities, kava has not yet become the most popular drug. However, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has expressed concern that the use of kava supplements is associated with a risk of serious liver damage. Therefore, it is important to study all the facts.

1. May fight cancer

Flavocavains are secondary metabolites present in kava root that may have anti-cancer properties. Research has examined the toxicity of kava and monitored the results of cellular adaptation in human hepatocytes.

To study resistance to oxidative stress, the cells were subjected to pretreatment. Some results showed significant cell death. This suggests that kava root may be effective as a chemopreventive and chemotherapeutic agent.

2. May reduce the size of a tumor in the prostate gland

A study published in the journal Oncotarget showed that the compounds in capsicum were able to inhibit the growth of certain defective cell lines. Further studies revealed that dietary feeding of kava to mice with autochthonous transgenic adenocarcinoma of the prostate (TRAMP) inhibited the formation of lesions and adenocarcinomas of the prostate, reduced tumor, and completely eliminated metastasis to other organs.

The results suggest that the agents found in kava may be effective inhibitors in the prevention and treatment of prostate cancer.

This makes kava root a good remedy for improving the condition of the prostate in general and reducing the chance of prostate cancer in particular.

3. Strengthens the immune system

Flavocavain extracts have powerful anti-inflammatory effects. One study sought to find agents that are able to stimulate the immune system without affecting homeostatic balance, while determining the toxicity and immunomodulatory effects of flavocavain A and flavocavain B (agents found in kava root) in Balb/c mice.

As a result, all mice after the treatment period were normal. It is likely that the compounds did not cause any intoxication.

Thus, intoxicant pepper root can be used as an immune booster.

4. Helps fight breast cancer

Kava is reported to have anti-cancer and anti-inflammatory properties. We all know that the state of the immune system and the inflammatory processes that can develop in the body play a key role in the development of cancer.

A study conducted in Malaysia aimed to understand the mechanisms of action of kava root in regulating and strengthening immunity, as well as suppressing inflammatory processes in mice with breast cancer. It is worth noting that the treatment with kava resulted in a decrease in the weight and volume of the tumor. At the same time, the level of inflammation also decreased.

Overall, these results indicate that Pepper Root can not only protect against tumor development, but also prevent inflammation in a carcinogenic microenvironment.

5. Fights anxiety

Generalized anxiety disorder is a chronic condition in which there is a high level of psychological stress. As a rule, it is difficult to treat for a long time. Some studies claim that kava root can treat anxiety without being addictive or hypnotic.

Cochrane International reported on additional research evaluating data on the effectiveness of kava root extract as a natural remedy for anxiety. Twenty-two potentially relevant, double-blind, placebo-controlled randomized trials were identified. Twelve trials met the inclusion criteria and showed that kava extract helped reduce anxiety.

All adverse reactions reported were of moderate severity. These findings suggest that pepper extract may be an effective treatment for the symptomatic treatment of anxiety.

6. Improves sleep quality

Kava began to gain popularity in the 1990s as an herbal remedy for people suffering from insomnia and anxiety. We know that about 50% of the world’s population suffers from insomnia at one time or another. Herbal preparations, including kava root, are becoming increasingly popular when it comes to combating sleep disturbance.

In a study conducted by the School of Medicine and Dentistry at the University of Rochester in the United States, six herbal remedies that affect sleep were studied, including caffeine, chamomile, cherries, intoxicating pepper, L-tryptophan, marijuana, and valerian root. Although no significant results have been obtained, kava and kava-based drinks have shown sedative effects.

Kava root and kratom

Another plant, kratom, has properties similar to those of kava, which we discussed above. Kava and kratom are often compared to each other, as both plants have a relaxing effect. However, kratom is better known for its ability to energize and calm the mind. While kava is popular for its intoxicating and euphoric effects.

Both plants grow in southeast Asia. For medicinal purposes, kava root and kratom leaves are used to make tea.

Since plants have different mechanisms of action, taking them together has a stronger effect, since they both:

• cause a feeling of euphoria
• give satisfaction
• increase attention
• reduce stress

Here’s how each plant works:

Kava:

• Moderate intoxication
• Improve mood, relieve anxiety and increase sociability
• Effects on GABA receptors
• Dopamine receptor stimulation
• Use of plant root

Kratom:

• Small dose stimulant and higher dose sedative
• Removing anxiety
• Stimulation of μ(mu)-, δ(delta)-opioid receptors
• Effects on serotonin and norepinephrine receptors
• Use of plant leaves

How to cook

Now, to make a drink from intoxicating pepper, the root is ground or rubbed, and then soaked in cold water or coconut milk. In the past, the root was chewed, spit into a bowl, and poured into water or coconut milk. For hygienic reasons, this method is, of course, no longer used.

On the market, kava root is available in dry form, powder, capsules, tablets, tea, or tincture. Western experts recommend purchasing standardized kava extracts that contain at least 70% kavalactones.

On the other hand, a report made in April 2002 by the UK Medicines Safety Board claims a large number of side effects due to the high concentration of plant compounds in standardized extracts. The report states that traditional methods of preparing kava make it safer. It is likely that controversy regarding the safety of this plant will still continue.

Side effects and risks

When choosing kava in any form, it is important to consider all the risks. During pregnancy and lactation, and if you are taking any medications, it is better to avoid kava, or consult your doctor before using it. The plant may have an effect on the uterus.

If you have symptoms of depression, kava may aggravate your condition. Since pepper intoxicants affect the central nervous system, it can enhance the effect of anesthesia or other drugs used during or after surgery. The use of the plant should be discontinued at least two weeks before surgery.

It is also very important to follow the correct dosage. It depends on a number of factors, including age, health status, and symptoms. The quality of kava products should be discussed with a doctor or pharmacist before use.

Addictive

Since kava has a significant relaxing effect, the plant can be addictive. However, the likelihood of this happening is quite low. In many countries, intoxicating pepper is considered a plant anxiolytic and is used in large doses to restore the body in the tribes of the Pacific and Australian Aborigines.

The recommended dosage for the treatment of non-psychotic anxiety is 105 to 210 mg per day for 3 to 4 weeks. Among the most common adverse reactions are dizziness, headache, drowsiness, depression, diarrhea, and rarely skin rash.

Precautions to be taken

Viral resistance

Health care professionals have so much information regarding herbal and laboratory drug interactions that it is sometimes difficult to distinguish between a likely interaction and a clinically significant one. Thus, for pharmacotherapy in HIV/AIDS, reliable data are still insufficient.

A review by the University of Mississippi School of Pharmacology, USA, provides evidence for a potential interaction of medicinal plants with specific antiretrovirals. And some herbal preparations can have a significant effect on the human body.

This study suggests that many herbal medicines such as St. John’s wort, black pepper, grapefruit juice, yams, ginkgo, garlic, ginseng, goldenseal and yams should not be taken in combination with some antivirals. This is important to know in order to avoid the influence of herbal preparations on laboratory preparations, which can lead to viral resistance.

Liver injury

Oral ingestion of intoxicating pepper may not be safe. Even a short-term intake of the plant at the recommended dosage can cause the development of a number of serious diseases, including liver damage. It has been reported that taking kava for 1-3 months can lead to the need for a liver transplant and even death. The first signs of liver damage include yellowing of the whites of the eyes and skin (jaundice), fatigue, and dark urine.

We advise you to monitor the condition of the liver while taking kava. The severity of liver damage ranges from mild elevation of enzyme levels to acute liver failure. In most cases, the effects of liver damage resolve within 1-3 months after the herbal product is stopped. However, there are data on liver transplantation in some patients.

Not recommended for driving

Do not use intoxicating pepper if you are driving vehicles or machinery. Do not take kava if you plan to drive. Large amounts of kava tea can lead to erratic driving and an accident on the road.

A study by the University of Auckland School of Public Health in New Zealand analyzed the available literature examining the association between kava consumption, car accidents and driving style. However, no studies have been conducted to determine the extent to which kava affects driving ability or related injuries.

Four experimental studies using driving simulators examined the effect of pharmacological doses of cavalactors on cognitive and visuomotor functions. The results showed a slight slowdown in the reaction. But one study found a significant deterioration in visuomotor function when kava was taken with alcohol.

History

The kava plant, which means “intoxicating pepper”, got its name from explorer James Cook. However, he did not open it. The plant has been used by the Pacific Islanders for thousands of years.

Today, in the South Pacific, kava is a popular drink that can be compared to alcohol. However, it still plays an important role in various rituals and ceremonies. One study found that kava consumption is heavily associated with many ceremonial, social, and cultural aspects of Tongan culture.

Kava has healing properties, promotes communication and building relationships between Tongan men (an alternative to alcohol). However, men interviewed for the study also reported negative effects of kava. For example, they mentioned feeling lazy, tired, and very expensive in New Zealand.

However, the plant is one of the most important social pillars of Melanesian society. For more than 1000 years, it has been used at various social events to prepare drinks with a relaxing effect. During the period of colonization, the plant became known in Western countries, and the extracts began to be used for medicinal purposes. However, after the publication of a series of case reports, liver toxicity in 1999-2000, the plant began to cause serious concern.

Interesting facts

Kava is a tropical shrub native to the Pacific Islands. The plant belongs to the Pepper family and is also known as the intoxicating pepper. The shrub grows on average up to 1.5 m in height, has large heart-shaped leaves, reaching 25 cm in width.

Pacific Islanders drink kava at social, ritual and ceremonial occasions to feel relaxed and euphoric. It is enjoyed at meetings by village elders, it is used as an offering to the gods, to treat illnesses, and to welcome guests of honor (among them were Pope John Paul II, Queen Elizabeth II of Great Britain and American politician Hillary Rodham Clinton).

It is believed that the chemical compounds present in the intoxicating pepper have anxiolytic, analgesic, relaxing and anticonvulsant effects mediated by effects on the limbic system (the part of the brain associated with emotions). Studies have shown that the concentration of kava in the product, the type of preparation, the pyrone content of the kava, and the plant variety used can affect the effectiveness of the drug.

The plant is found in the Western and South Pacific and is most commonly referred to simply as “kava”, meaning “bitter”. The active ingredients are kavapirones (kavalactones), which, like alcohol, promote relaxation and sociability while maintaining mental clarity. Kava has been proposed as an anxiolytic for use by patients with anxiety disorders, as well as to combat insomnia, premenstrual syndrome, and stress.

Given all its possibilities, it is not surprising that cases of abuse of kava have been recorded. However, when used at recommended dosages, this happens very rarely. Recently, the safety of intoxicating pepper products has been in great doubt due to reports of its effects on the liver and cases of death. The use of kava has been banned or restricted in many countries, including Germany, Switzerland, France, Canada, and the United Kingdom.

Data on the hepatotoxicity of the plant is still insufficient, although a small number of convincing cases have been recorded. Despite this, kava is still available in pharmacies and online in many forms, from pills to powders.

Conclusion

• Kava Root helps fight cancer, reduce the size of prostate tumors, boost immunity, fight breast cancer, reduce anxiety and improve sleep quality.
• Side effects of kava include addiction, viral resistance, liver damage, and effects on driving ability.
• Kava and kratom are often compared to each other, as both plants have a relaxing effect. However, kratom is better known for its ability to energize and calm the mind. While kava is popular for its intoxicating and euphoric effects. Since plants have different mechanisms of action, their combined use has a stronger effect.
• Experts still argue about the safety of kava root, but the benefits of taking it (at the recommended dosage) still outweigh the risks. It is important not to abuse the products and strictly follow the instructions for use, as kava is addictive.

You can make an appointment with an oncologist on our website.

Benefits, Side Effects and Dosage – Drink-Drink

Compared to placebo, this significantly reduced participants’ perceived anxiety.

Investigators also noted no withdrawal or addiction-related side effects, while these effects are seen with other drugs commonly used to treat anxiety. 14).

Since this study, several other studies have demonstrated the benefits of kava for anxiety. A review of 11 of these studies found kava extract to be an effective treatment for anxiety.16).

Moreover, another review of a specific kava extract came to a similar conclusion, reporting that it could be used as an alternative to some anxiety medications and other antidepressants (17).

Recent studies have continued to find evidence that kava is effective for anxiety.18, 19, 20).

Lack of sleep is associated with many health problems, including high blood pressure, diabetes, depression, obesity, and cancer.21, 22, 23, 24).

Realizing this, many people turn to sleeping pills to improve their sleep. Like medications used to treat anxiety, sleeping pills can be addictive, leading to physical dependence.25).

Kava is commonly used as an alternative to these sleeping pills due to its calming effect.

In one study of 24 people, kava was found to reduce stress and insomnia compared to placebo. 26).

However, both investigators and participants knew whether they were receiving kava or placebo. This could have caused a bias that affected the result.

Despite these shortcomings, a subsequent higher-quality study found that kava was more effective than placebo in improving sleep quality and reducing anxiety.27).

Interestingly, the effect of kava on insomnia may be related to its effect on anxiety.

Stress-induced insomnia is common in people with anxiety. Thus, in cases of insomnia, kava may treat anxiety, which may help people sleep better (27).

It is not known how kava affects sleep in those who do not have anxiety or stress-induced insomnia.

In addition, it may cause drowsiness but does not affect the ability to drive (28).

Conclusion Kava is a natural

alternative to prescription sleeping pills. Although it is effective in treating

stress-induced insomnia, its effect on healthy people is unknown.

Kava Forms

Kava can be taken as a tea, capsule, powder or liquid.

With the exception of kava tea, these products are made from a concentrated mixture prepared by extracting kavalactones from the root of the plant with ethanol or acetone (3).

Plan Tea

Tea is the most common method of taking kava for anxiety as it is readily available.

It is sold alone or with other herbs advertised for relaxation and is brewed using hot water.

Be sure to look for kava tea that lists kavalactone as well as other ingredients.

Avoid teas that list ingredients as “proprietary blends”. With these products, you won’t know how much kava you’ll get.

Kava tincture or liquid

This is a liquid form of kava sold in small bottles ranging from 2 to 6 ounces (59–177 ml). You can take it with a pipette or mix it with juice or other drink to hide its whiskey-like taste.

It is important to take only a small dose as the kavalactones are concentrated making the kava tincture and liquid more effective than other forms.

Kava Capsules

Those who do not like the taste of kava can take it in capsule form.

As with kava tea, look for products that list kavalactone content. For example, one capsule may contain 100 mg of kava root extract, which is standardized to contain 30% kavalactones.

Knowing this information will help you avoid taking too much or too little kavalactones.

dosage

Experts recommend that the daily dose of kavalactones should not exceed 250 mg (29, 30).

The effective dose of kavalactones is 70–250 mg (18, 19, 20).

Kava supplements may list kavalactones in milligrams or as a percentage. If the content is given as a percentage, you will need to calculate the amount of kavalactones it contains.

For example, if one capsule contains 100 mg of kava root extract and contains 30% kavalactones, it will contain 30 mg of kavalactones (100 mg x 0.30 = 30 mg).

To achieve an effective dose in the 70-250mg range of kavalactones, you need to take at least three capsules of this particular supplement.

Most kava root extracts contain 30-70% kavalactones (3).

Conclusion Kava is available in

many forms. Avoid products with “proprietary blends”. Look for 9 instead0003

products that tell you the kavalactone content per dose or percentage

kavalactones for which the product is standardized.

Side Effects

Although kava can be helpful for anxiety, many people are concerned about its potential side effects.

In the early 2000s, several cases of kava-related liver poisoning were reported.31).

Later, the US Food and Drug Administration warned of the risk of liver damage associated with products containing kava.32).

Its use has even been banned or restricted in many countries, including Germany, Switzerland, France, Canada and the UK.

However, the ban was later lifted in Germany due to lack of evidence of associated risks (33).

Kava is believed to harm the liver in a number of ways, one of which is how it interacts with certain medications.

Liver enzymes that break down kava also break down other drugs. Thus, kava can bind these enzymes and prevent them from breaking down other drugs, causing them to accumulate and harm the liver.34).

Adulteration is another reason why kava products are considered unsafe (35, 36).

To save money, some companies use other parts of the kava plant, such as leaves or stems, instead of roots. The leaves and stems are known to be harmful to the liver (37, 38).

However, several analyzes of studies on this topic found no evidence of liver damage in people who took these supplements for a short period of time, or for 1–24 weeks.16, 17).

Thus, people without liver damage and those not taking medications that affect the liver can safely consume kava at appropriate doses for about one to two months (3).

Conclusion Although kava may be

safe use in the short term is associated with liver problems. This is the best

consult your doctor before taking kava as it may interact with

some drugs.