Herbs - Kava Kava - 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.