Kava (Piper methysticum)

Photo copyright Steven Foster  

Parts used and where grown: Kava is a member of the pepper family and is native to many Pacific Ocean islands. The rhizome (root stock) is used.

In what conditions might kava be supportive?

• anxiety

Historical or traditional use: A non-alcoholic drink made from the root of kava played an important role in a variety of ceremonies in the Pacific islands, including welcoming visiting royalty, at meetings of village elders, or as part of social gatherings. Kava was valued both for its mellowing effects and to encourage socializing. It was also noted for initiating a state of contentment, a greater sense of well-being, and enhanced mental acuity, memory, and sensory perception. Kava has also been used traditionally to treat pain.

Active constituents: The kava-lactones, sometimes referred to as kava-pyrones, are important active constituents in kava herbal extracts. High-quality kava rhizome contain 5.5-8.3% kava-lactones.1 Medicinal extracts used in Europe contain 30-70% kava-lactones. Kava-lactones may have anti-anxiety, analgesic (pain-relieving), muscle-relaxing, and anticonvulsant effects.2 Studies suggest that kava directly influences the limbic system, the ancient part of the brain associated with emotions and other brain activities.3

How much should I take? Many people take kava extracts supplying 140-210 mg of kava-lactones per day. Alternatively, 1-3 ml of fresh liquid kava tincture can be taken.

Are there any side effects or interactions? In recommended amounts, the only reported side effects from kava use are mild gastrointestinal disturbances in some people. Long-term consumption of very high doses of kava may turn the skin yellow temporarily. If this occurs, people should simply discontinue kava use. In rare cases, an allergic skin reaction, such as a rash, may occur.

Kava is not recommended for use by pregnant or lactating women. It should not be taken together with other substances that also act on the central nervous system, such as alcohol, barbiturates, antidepressants, and antipsychotic drugs.

References:

1. Bone K. Kava: A safe herbal treatment for anxiety. Brit J Phytother 1994; 3:145-53.
2. Buckley JP, Furgiulel AR, O’Hara MJ. Pharmacology of kava. In Ethnopharmacoligcal Search for Psychoactive Drugs. ed. DH Efron, B Holmstedt, NS Kline. New York: Raven Press, 1979, 141-51.
3. Holm E, Staedt U, et al. Studies on the profile of the neurophysiological effects of D,L-kavain: Cerebral sites of action and sleep-wakefulness-rhythm in animals. Arzneim-Forsch Drug Res 1991; 41:673-83.

 

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The information presented in HealthNotes Online is for informational purposes only. It is based on scientific studies (human, animal, or in vitro), clinical experience, or traditional usage as cited in each article. The results reported may not necessarily occur in all individuals. For many of the conditions discussed, treatment with prescription or over-the-counter medication is also available. Consult your physician, nutritionally-oriented health care practitioner, and/or pharmacist for any health problem and before using any supplements or before making any changes in prescribed medications.