What Happens If You Drink Too Much Kava Tea?

Kava comes from the root of Piper methysticum -- a relative of the pepper plant -- that grows in the Pacific Islands. Chewed or ground kava added to water or coconut milk has been used as a social beverage and traditional medicine for generations in the islands. Preliminary studies support its use as an anti-anxiety agent, and it has a reputation for producing a calm and happy mood. Consult your doctor before taking kava or other supplements.

Background

Kava, also called kava kava, yagona, ava and awa, comes in bulk form as pieces of root, in tea bags, tea blends, capsules and tinctures. In 2001, cases of liver damage traced to kava supplements led to kava bans in some European countries, Harvard Health Publications notes. The FDA issued a warning in 2002 about the possibility of liver damage from kava. In addition to its anti-anxiety use, kava has been used for other nervous conditions, insomnia and menopause. The University of Maryland Medical Center advises using kava only under a doctor's supervision.

Research

A review of kava use based on studies from 1987 to 2008 found that it's associated with numerous consequences to the user's health and community. Drinking kava may result in a scaly skin rash, liver problems, increased cholesterol, nausea, indigestion, eye soreness, loss of sex drive, impotence and poor health, researchers from the University of Sydney School of Public Health reported in the January 2011 "Drug and Alcohol Review." Kava use can contribute to loss of time and money, loss of motivation and "lazy" days after ingestion, the researchers note. Kava use is also associated with lower use of alcohol and fewer episodes of violence.

Effects

Drinking kava tea can cause inebriation. Since kava intoxication can impair reflexes and reaction time, if you drink kava tea, don't drive, operate machinery or engage in any tasks that could lead to injury while you're impaired. Kava use can result in a Driving Under the Influence, DUI, arrest, the University of Maryland Medical Center reports. Drinking too much kava may cause drowsiness. Long-term or heavy kava intake can lead to scaly, yellowed skin, the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine reports. Kava could cause dystonia, or abnormal muscle spasms.

Considerations and Alternatives

The issue of liver toxicity from kava use remains under investigation as of June 2011. Some liver toxicity cases related to kava use required liver transplants, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports. Exercise, particularly moderate to vigorous aerobic exercise such as brisk walking, jogging, running, martial arts workouts and dancing can help to elevate mood, reduce stress and alleviate depression and anxiety. Reducing caffeine, sugar and refined carbohydrates can promote stable blood sugar for better moods. Engaging in activities that promote relaxation, such as meditation, yoga, tai chi and qigong promote calm moods and may improve sleep quality.