Kava has been used has an herbal remedy to decrease anxiety, help induce sleep and ease menopausal symptoms. Questions regarding the safety of kava came to the forefront in 2002 when the Food and Drug Administration issued a warning that it had been linked to liver damage. A number of other side effects have also been linked to kava. Despite the FDS advisory, kava is still available for sale in the U.S. Talk to your doctor before taking kava and make sure to follow the dosage instructions.
Loss of Muscle Control
Kava has been associated with irregular muscle movements and spasms, according to the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine. Kava has been reported to cause a twisting or tightening of the muscles in the face and neck after short-term use. Pregnant women should not take kava because it could affect uterine muscles, says Intelihealth.com.
When taken in high doses, kava has worsened symptoms in Parkinson's disease patients. Parkinson's disease is a degenerative nervous system disorder that compromises movement.
Liver Damage
In rare cases, kava supplements have been linked to liver malfunctions, which prompted the FDA advisory. Health officials in several countries include Canada, France and Germany have reported more than two dozen cases of liver failure and toxicity.
Kava appears to be safe for people with healthy livers when taken for 6 months or less but further research is needed, according to the Mayo Clinic.
Other Possible Serious Reactions
A number of other serious side effects have been linked to high doses and/or the long-term use kava, according to the National Institutes of Health. These include blood abnormalities, blood in the urine, kidney damage, seizures, high blood pressure, increased blood pressure in the lungs known as pulmonary hypertension and psychotic episodes.
Kava may lower the number white blood cells, making the body more susceptible to infection. There also appears to be link between kava and pneumonia, according to Intelihealth.
Mild Side Effects
Mild side effects associated with kava include abdominal discomfort, skin rash, drowsiness, fatigue,vomiting and headaches. Kava has also been reported to cause blood in the urine and yellowish, scaly skin, according to the NCCAM.
Drug Interactions
Kava may have unsafe interactions with several medications, including those prescribed for Parkinson's disease and the anti-anxiety drug alprazolam. Kava may also increase the potency of certain antidepressants, sleep aids and alcohol.
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