Health Benefits of Kava Kava

Health Benefits of Kava Kava

Kava kava (piper methysticum) or kava, is an herbal plant from the Pacific islands. Traditionally, kava has been used for centuries by Pacific Islanders as a ceremonial drink during religious and cultural ceremonies to promote a state of inebriation. A paste is made from the plant’s root and mixed with water or coconut milk to create the drink.

The active ingredient in kava is kavalactones. Kavalactones may cause a person to feel relaxed, talkative and euphoric, similarly to the effects alcohol.

Kava may have anti-anxiety effects. Kava may help reduce stress and anxiety. There has been studies that showed consuming kavalactones helped relieve mild and moderate anxiety. Other studies showed that kava is more effective for short term anxiety relief but is not for long term treatment.

Kava may also help promote sleep. Studies have shown consuming kava reduced insomnia but more research is needed.

Kava may have anti-inflammatory and anticancer properties but more research is needed.

Kava may cause liver damage, including hepatitis and liver failure.

Kava may have the potential for abuse and addiction.

Kava may have other side effects, including an upset stomach, headache, dizziness, dry skin, yellow skin, flaky or scaly skin.

Kava may also interact with certain medications.

As always consult with your physician.

Sources:

https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/kava-kava

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7600512/

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/324015

https://www.medicinenet.com/kava/article.htm