Anxiety includes feelings of nervousness or fear, difficulty concentrating, restlessness, worrisome thoughts and physical symptoms such as increased heart rate, muscle tension, nausea and sweating. Plant-based remedies help reduce the symptoms of anxiety. Kava kava is one such plant. Kava has been linked to liver damage and should only be taken with medical supervision and coordination.
History
According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, kava kava, also called piper methysticum, has been used for centuries in the Pacific Islands as a ceremonial drink similar to wine and for its medicinal qualities. Traditionally, the roots of the plant are ground and steeped in cold water to make a thick stew-like drink. The drink is served to visitors of the Pacific Islands.
The Plant
Kava is a bush native to the Pacific Islands. It has heart-shaped leaves that grow closely together and long, narrow flowers that emanate from where the branches and stems meet. The roots are the only part of the plant used for medicinal purposes.
Uses
Kava has calming and mood-elevating properties. It has been used in the Pacific Islands for relaxation purposes and other regions of the world to help relieve anxiety symptoms and insomnia. Pittler and Ernst of the University of Exeter in the United Kingdom examined the research on the effectiveness of kava for anxiety relief. Their research review, which was published in the "Journal of Clinical Psychopharmacology," found that kava is effective at reducing self-reported anxiety symptoms.
Administration
Due to the possibility of liver damage and drug interactions, there is no standardized dose recommendation for kava. However, kava is available in several forms. The University of Maryland Medical Center explains that kava can be found in liquid form, as a tincture or standardized extract and in capsules or tablets. Consult with a medical professional before taking kava.
Precautions
According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, kava should not be given to children and should not be taken by people with liver damage or by pregnant or breastfeeding women, and it may interact with medications and other drugs. Do not take kava with alcohol or any sedating medication such as anti-anxiety agents or anticonvulsants. In 2002, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration issued a warning that kava, in rare cases, may be associated with liver failure. Therefore, the herb should only be taken when coordinating with a medical professional.
