Kava kava has strong effects on the human body. It is most commonly used to treat symptoms of nervous related disorders such as insomnia, anxiety and PMS. Kava was traditionally used by Pacific Islanders as a celebratory beverage, similar to alcohol today, because it can elevate the state of mind. They shared kava tea with guests and dignitaries that visited the islands. Today, kava is not used in such a carefree manner because it has more effects on your body than just psychological, and some may be dangerous.
Kava and Liver Damage
Kava kava is deemed safe in the United States, however, The Food and Drug Administration issued a consumer warning on the herb, stating that it has rare potential to cause liver failure, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Many cases have been reported on liver damage associated with kava and it has actually been banned in several countries, according to Daniel K. Hall-Flavin, M.D. at the Mayo Clinic. Consult your doctor before using kava and remain under your doctor's supervision if you are advised to take it. Don't take kava with other substances that are hard on the liver such as certain medications, alcohol and caffeine. If you have liver disease such as hepatitis, refrain from taking kava.
Dosage
Talk with your doctor about what dosage is right for you and your needs. Generally the standardized dose for anxiety is between 150 mg to 300 mg, 1 to 3 times per day. Standardized supplements contain 30 percent to 70 percent kavalactones. If you use the dried roots, take 2 g to 4 g per day, no more than 3 times per day. If you exceed these doses it may be too much and pose health risks on your body. It may take up to four weeks before you notice changes in symptoms of your condition. Taking kava for more than three months at a time is also too much. Plan on rest periods of at least two weeks between use.
Function
Kava is used to help alleviate symptoms associated with mood and nervous disorders by having a calming effect on your central nervous system, without making you feel sedated. It provides a sense of relaxation while elevating your sense of well-being, mood and contentment. It may also help your cognitive function such as concentration and focus, which is unique to calming medications. Many prescription medicines used to treat anxiety tend to temporarily decrease your cognitive function.
Alternatives
If you can't use kava because of health complications or don't want to take the risks associated with this herb, other natural treatments are available that have similar effects to kava. Valerian is another root that may be useful in calming your nerves and is used to treat insomnia and symptoms of anxiety, however, it tends to have more of a sedating effect than kava. B vitamins, specifically inositol, are used to help increase mood and alleviate anxiety by aiding your brain in the production of neurotransmitters, which directly affect mood.
Member Comments