Kava kava is an herbal supplement that is popular for the treatment of anxiety, stress and insomnia. Both the root and rhizome of the kava plant are traditionally used for teas, but modern preparations include capsules, tablets and even topical options. While kava has been shown to be beneficial as an anxiety treatment, serious concerns about liver safety have stopped further federally funded testing and led to an FDA warning. Consult a doctor before using kava kava or any other herbal remedy.
Function
Kava, or Piper methysticum, works on the brain and central nervous system. The primary active ingredients are kavalactones, including kawain, dihydrokawain, and methysticum, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. In animal studies, these kavalactones induce sleep, relax muscles, and reduce convulsions. Kava may increase the effect of some medications or cause additional side effects in others, including general anesthesia, sedatives, tranquilizers, diuretics and anti-psychotic drugs.
Considerations
Kava has been used to elevate mood and well-being, as well as to induce a state of relaxation. "Effect of Kava and Valerian on Human Physiological and Psychological Responses to Mental Stress Assessed under Laboratory Conditions," published in Phytotherapy Research, showed reduced signs of physiological stress when kava was taken during stressful situations in a laboratory setting. The results indicate that kava may be beneficial in managing the physical symptoms of stress.
Benefits
A 2004 study in the Journal of Human Psychopharmacology showed improved mood and cognitive performance when individuals took kava. Many pharmaceutical treatments, including benzodiazepines, lower cognitive function. Kava may reduce anxiety after just one to two doses, according to Medline Plus, and a clear reduction may be seen after one week of treatment.
Warning
In 2001, the FDA issued a warning linking kava use to liver damage. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, 25 cases of severe liver damage have been associated with kava-containing products, including cirrhosis, liver failure, hepatitis and even death. Kava should be avoided entirely or taken only under a doctor's supervision. Liver function tests may be required. If you have liver damage or take medications that may cause liver damage, you should not take kava for stress or anxiety.
Expert Insight
News of possible liver damage led to bans on kava in many countries and the FDA warning; however, studies continue and many people rely upon kava to treat stress or anxiety. German researcher Mathias Schmidt, an expert in kava, does not believe that kava is inherently dangerous and questions the link between some instances of liver failure and kava usage. In some instances, liver damage may be the result of drug interactions or the type of kava preparation. According to Schmidt, there is a good likelihood that the liver problems were caused by poor quality kava.
