Herbalists have used the roots of Piper methysticum, or kava, medicinally for hundreds of years. Kava purportedly elevates mood and contentment, improves well-being and creates a feeling of relaxation. Some researchers believe kava may help treat anxiety, insomnia and related nervous disorders. Many so-called pregnancy teas are safe to drink when pregnant. However, women should not use kava as a tea or in any form during pregnancy.
Kava
Kava grows in the Pacific Islands. Pacific Islanders use kava to make a ceremonial drink, as it has an effect similar to alcohol. Herbalists grind or chew the roots of the kava shrub into a pulp before adding it to cold water. In addition to its purported ability to treat anxiety and insomnia, kava may also promote wound healing and reduce pain when applied to the lesions of those suffering from skin diseases such as leprosy. Herbalists also use kava to treat psychosis, epilepsy, migraines, chronic tuberculosis, muscle pain and chronic fatigue syndrome.
Active Ingredient
The active ingredients in the kava root are called kavalactones, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Researchers have studied the effects of kavalactones in the lab and in animal trials, and have found that kavalactones reduce convulsions, relax muscles and promote sleep in animals. They may even have pain-relieving properties.
Kava Teas and Pregnancy
You should not use kava during pregnancy, and should consult your physician before using any herbal supplement or tea. Many commercially manufactured herbal teas are safe during pregnancy. However, researchers have conducted little, if any, human clinical trials that have tested the effects of kava in any form. The National Institutes of Health explains that kava may affect the uterus, causing miscarriage or early labor.
Liver Toxicity
The Food and Drug Administration issued a warning in November 2002 explaining that 11 patients who used kava supplements had suffered from liver failure and subsequently needed liver transplants. Kava can damage even a healthy liver, and researchers do not know the effects it may have on a pregnant woman's liver. The National Institutes of Health states that kava can be unsafe, and people should not use it.
Drug Interactions
Because of kava's effects on the nervous system, there is a possibility it may increase the effects of anesthesia during surgery. Kava may increase the effects of benzodiazepine medications as well as CNS depressants such as alprazolam, clonazepam, lorazepam, zolpidem and phenobarbitol, according to the National Institutes of Health.
