Kava Kava, Dried
Latin Name: Piper methysticum
Family: Piperaceae
Description
Kava kava is a popular herb originally from the South Pacific islands. It has been used as a ceremonial and medicinal beverage by indigenous cultures of this region for more than 3,000 years. Only recently has this herb become popular in Europe and North America.
To date, 15 bioactive compounds called lactones or pyrones have been isolated and categorized. These elements are collectively referred to as kavalactones or kavapyrones. They are found in the root stick and roots of Kava kava. This plant is highly synergistic and the greater the collective concentration of these elements, the stronger the preparation becomes. Strength in numbers, power in diversity.
The kavalactones appear to target the brain's amygdala, an area of the brain's limbic system. This thimble-sized neuron cluster generates and interprets emotions such as anxiety, anger, and sadness. As a result, this calming herb, referred to as a nervine, reduces anxiety, acts as a muscle relaxant and sedative, and improves mental function.
Athletes also prefer Kava kava over powerful prescription drugs such as benzodiazepines (tranquilizers) or over-the-counter medications where side effects include impaired performance, focus, and precision. By relaxing both the muscles and the mind, kava kava can help prevent muscle injuries.
Kava Kava, Powdered
Ailments / Situations Where Used Those suffering from anxiety disorder often respond well to this anti-anxiety herb. Kava kava reduces daily anxiety and tension and is not physically addictive. In addition, taking this herb does not necessitate higher doses over time to achieve the same effects.
Kava kava is widely prescribed in Germany as a remedy for both stress and insomnia. When used as a sedative, this herb does not cause a post-sleep "hangover" typical of many over the counter sleep aids. In addition, it does not interfere with REM sleep.
Kava kava is excellent for treating muscle sprains and strains. As a muscle relaxant, kavalactones relax both skeletal (voluntary) and smooth (involuntary) muscles. It also reduces nervous tension and conditions related to skeletal muscle spasms.
Some studies suggest Kava kava is as potent as aspirin for relieving muscle pain. Pain relief occurs through non-addictive, non-opiate, pathways.
Source
Root stick and root
Preparations
Infusion: You can prepare or purchase Kava kava tea, but it is much less effective in this form due to the low concentration of herb. The warmth of a hot liquid, however, is in itself an overall relaxant...
Supplement: Take up to 300mg daily of kavalactones, divided into several doses. DO NOT exceed this dosage. Taking 120 to 200mg 30 to 60 minutes before bed can make you drowsy and ready for sleep. If used to treat anxiety disorder, take 180 to 240mg daily, divided into several doses.
Tincture: Take 20 to 60 drops daily.
Contraindications / Precautions / Warnings
Do not use if pregnant or nursing. Do not use if you are 18 or under, except on the strict supervision of a naturopath or health practitioner.
Kava kava can have a sedating effect on the body and can cause drowsiness. Do not use while driving, operating heavy/precision machinery, or performing any other activity requiring a high, acute, level of awareness.
Kava kava can be psychologically addictive. Do not take for more than three months at a time. Long-term use at high doses may also cause the skin to turn yellow. The effect is only temporary and can be relieved by discontinuing use. Consult with your naturopath or health practitioner when considering long-term use of this herb.
If you have Parkinson's disease, you should not take this herb as it relaxes the muscles and can interfere with dopamine levels in the brain.
Do not take Kava kava with alcohol or drugs, especially benzodiazepine drugs such as Xanax. Do not take with anti-anxiety drugs such as Valium.
Some individuals develop "kava dermopathy", a scaly skin rash.
Ailment / Situation Listing
