Kava kava was historically popular in the Pacific islands as a ceremonial beverage because it has similar effects to alcohol. Kava roots are chewed or ground and mixed with water to make into tea form. Today this herb is used as a natural treatment for problems affecting mood and the nervous system. However, like alcohol, kava may pose risks to your health that outweigh its benefits. Talk with your doctor before using kava.
Function
Kava is reported to have a calming effect on your body and mind without making you feel sedated. It helps elevate the feeling of well-being, mood and contentment along with relaxation. Kava is used to help alleviate symptoms associated with conditions such as anxiety, insomnia, depression and PMS. The University of Maryland Medical Center reports that a study found kava to elevate mood and cognitive function, which is significant because many medications used to treat anxiety tend to lower cognitive function.
Effects on the Liver
The most serious safety concern about kava is its effects on your liver. Kava-related liver damage has been reported in Europe, although it is not certain that it was the cause of kava alone or kava mixed with other drugs, according to UMMC. The Food and Drug Administration deemed kava safe in the United States, however, issued a consumer advisory in March 2002 regarding the rare but potential risk of liver failure associated with kava-containing products, states UMMC. If your doctor advises you to use kava, keep your intake under medical supervision.
Interactions
Kava should not be used while taking caffeine, alcohol, or other substances and medications that are hard on the liver. You should also refrain from the use of kava if you take any sedating or antidepressant medications for conditions including insomnia, depression, anxiety and bipolar disorder as well as other herbs such as valerian. This may adversely affect your mood and motor skills along with having a sedating effect on your body.
Side Effects
Kava may cause side effects such as allergic skin reactions, dizziness, restlessness, drowsiness, upset stomach and tremors. You should take breaks between kava use, such as three months on and one month off because high doses for long periods of time can lead to dry, flaky and yellow discoloration of your skin as well as hair loss and loss of appetite. Kava can also have an intoxicating effect from short- or long-term use and should not be taken before driving or operating machinery.
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