Kava kava, also called kava, is a shrub-like plant whose roots are used for medicinal purposes. Kava kava is composed of the active ingredient kavalactones, primarily found in the root, and the rest of the plant consists of starches, proteins, simple sugars and minerals. Kava kava is one of the most popular herbs sold in stores today.
History
Kava kava has been historically used as a relaxation aide to calm anxiety and insomnia. Documented use of kava kava surfaced from the 18 century in the South Pacific by Captain James Cooke, according to Nakamal@Home.com. The origin of kava kava is still not confirmed but is theorized to come from Melanesia.
Significance
Kavalactones is the active ingredient in kava kava. Insight Journal states that when the roots are ground to a powder to make tea, a non-alcoholic drink is created to improve one's mood. Kavalactones is thought to stimulate neurotransmitter activity in the brain, including norepinephrine, dopamine and gamma aminobutyric acid, or GABA.
Benefits
According to BodyBuilder.com, kava kava claims to benefit the body and mind in several ways besides the traditional anxiety and insomnia relief. Kava kava's relaxation effect has been reported to help people in pain such as from sore muscles or tired joints, more specifically with the chronic condition fibromyalgia. Those who suffer from alcohol and tobacco addiction claim that their cravings can be soothed with kava kava supplements and tea. Other uses for kava kava include relief from menopausal symptoms, possible treatment for urinary tract infections and even stroke recovery.
Expert Insight
Hyla Cass, MD, shares an important new warning associated with kava kava in her article "Natural Solutions for Mind, Body and Spirit." Many countries in Europe have taken kava kava off the shelves because of reported cases of liver damage after prolonged use, including cirrhosis, hepatitis and liver failure. However, the FDA has found no conclusive evidence that kava kava is related to liver problems, but still would like the public to be aware of these potential risks.
Warning
Besides possible liver toxicity, kava kava does have other reported side effects. A less serious problem associated with kava kava includes scaly skin called kava dermopathy. This is speculated to occur with heavy use of kava kava and disappears when use is discontinued.
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