Botanically known as Piper methysticum forst, kava kava is a member of the Piperaceae family. It is native to the South Pacific Islands where the Polynesian people have used it for cultural ceremonies for many years, according to the University of Texas at El Paso Austin Cooperative Pharmacy Program and Paso del Norte Health Foundation. Kava kava roots contain high levels of kavapyrones, compounds which include kawain, dihydrokawain, methysticin, yangonin and dihydromethysticin, that exhibit anesthetic properties, reads the book "Prescription for Nutritional Healing, the A-to-Z Guide to Supplements" by nutritional councelor Phyllis Balch.
Relaxant
Kava kava is mainly a mental and physical relaxant herb that relieves muscles spasms and can help reduce pain. It is helpful for treating emotional distress such as anxiety and hyperactivity as well as stress-related disorders such as insomnia, says Balch. It is contraindicated in pregnancy and nursing women as well as individuals taking anti-depressant or anxiety medication. Take 10 to 15 drops of kava kava tincture diluted in water or with milk. Balch warns against overdosing on kava kava for it may cause unwanted drowsiness.
Antiseptic
According to acupuncturist Michael Tierra in his book "The Way of Herbs," kava kava has antiseptic properties that along with its analgesic properties can be used both internally and externally to heal wounds. Tierra suggests the use of kava kava to treat vaginitis as well as for urinary tract infection. For external remedies the herb can be applied directly onto affected area of skin or it can be made into a poultice.
Blend fresh kava kava root with water until you have a thick paste and wrap it with a porous cloth. Keep the poultice refrigerated until you are ready to use it.
Awakens the Mind
According to the book "The Dictionary of Modern Herbalism" written by herbalist Simon Mills, kava kava can be used in small dosages to stimulate the brain and clear the mind. As kava kava relaxes the nervous system, it also awakens the mind, reads the book "Family Herbal--A Guide to Living Life with Energy, Health and Vitality."
Gladstar recommends taking kava kava as a tincture for a rapid effect and to give your mind the chance to think with a clearer perspective. The capsules are recommended for treating long-term anxiety or stress.
References
- University of Texas at El Paso Austin Cooperative Pharmacy Program and Paso del Norte Health Foundation: Kava Kava
- "Perscription for Nutritional Healing, The A-to-Z Guide to Supplements"; Phyllis Balch; 2002
- "The Way of Herbs"; Michael Tierra C.A., N.D.; 1980
- "The Dictionary of Modern Herbalism"; Simon Y. Mills M.A., M.N.I.M.H.; 1988
- "Family Herbal a Guide to Living Life with Energy, Health and Vitality"; Rosemary Gladstar; 2001
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