Kava kava, also known as Piper methysticum is a plant that is native to the South Pacific region, where is used for its calming effect and ability to promote sociability. In Europe and North America has been used to decrease symptoms of anxiety and for sleeping problems. Individuals suffering from anxiety may have several benefits from using this supplement, however there are safety concerns and possible drug interactions while taking kava kava.
Anti-Anxiety
Kava is an effective, safe and non-addictive alternative to conventional drugs. Beside its calming effect, the supplement improves other symptoms associated with anxiety such as heart palpitations, chest pain, headaches, dizziness and gastric upset. Unlike conventional drugs, kava does not cause drowsiness, and you do not build a tolerance to kava over time.
In 2002 Kava Kava was banned in Europe, the UK and Canada because of concerns over liver damage. A study published in "Medical News Today" on May 11, 2009 concluded that kava kava is a safe and effective anti-anxiety supplement if a water-soluble extract from the rootstock of this plant is used .
The researcher who conducted the study, Jerome Sarris, from University of Queensland, School of Medicine, Australia also found that Kava Kava had not only an anti-anxiety effect , but also had a positive influence on decreasing depressive mood in the subjects who participated in the study.
Sleep Aid
According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, kava kava produces a sedative effect. Based on preliminary studies, some evidence shows that kava improves the quality of sleep and also reduces the amount of time needed to fall asleep. UMMC suggests kava kava and valium may produce similar changes in brain wave activity, thus it appears that this herb and valium have the same mechanism of action in calming the mind and promoting quality sleep. UMMC does not recommend kava kava as the first choice for treating sleeping problems because of the concerns about its safety related to liver injury, as well its interaction with drugs such as anticonvulsants, anti-anxiety, diuretics, phenothiazine, levodopa and alcohol.
Increase Sociability
According to the Kava website, kava kava has been traditionally used for hundreds of years in folk medicine as a ceremonial drink, especially in the Pacific Ocean cultures. The reason why this plant is used is mainly because it has the same effects as alcoholic beverages have in promoting sociability. Thus, kava kava can help individuals suffering from anxiety, since they are predispose to social withdrawal.
Cautions and Warnings
A qualified medical professional should be consulted before taking kava kava. The supplement has relative contraindications for individuals suffering from Parkinson's disease, pregnant or breastfeeding women and alcohol. Kava should not be used for more than six months, and liver tests should be monitored. High doses of this herb can cause kava dermopathy, a skin condition characterized by dry scaly palms, feet, forearms, back and shins.
References
- Medical News Today" UQ Research Finds Kava Is Safe And Effective
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Kava Kava
- Kava: History of Kava Kava
- "The Pill Book Guide To Natural Medicine"; Michael Murray, ND; 2002
