The roots of the kava plant have been used to make a ceremonial drink by Pacific islanders for centuries. The drink was and still is used in social settings due to its relaxing properties. The kava plant has medicinal uses as well and can help relieve muscle spasms and menstrual cramps in some individuals. Always talk to your doctor before using a new herb or supplement.
Benefits
Kava acts as an antispasmodic and helps relax tense muscles. It can also relieve uterine cramping due to monthly menstrual cycles. The plant has anti-inflammatory properties that can help relive tension and pain due to cramped muscles that trigger swelling in the body's soft tissues. Consuming kava can provide temporary pain relief from cramps as well, since the plant acts as a diuretic and helps flush waste products out of the muscles and joints, according to the AARP.
Forms
Powdered kava root is available in tablets and gel capsules. The plant's roots are also sold in bulk as a fine powder or a crushed root material. Some companies also manufacture and sell teabags that contain kava, though the traditional beverage is consumed cold and made with ground root material that is squeezed into cool water.
Dosage
A dosage of 150 to 300 mg up to three times per day for anxiety is safe for most people, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. You may need more of the herb to combat cramping on a short-term basis, but you should check with your doctor before consuming more than the generally accepted safe amount. The University of Maryland Medical Center advises taking a two-week resting period if you have consumed kava daily or close to daily for three months.
Considerations
While kava can help reduce pain associated with muscle and menstrual cramps, it should not be used as a long-term solution for muscle problems due to an injury or chronic illness. Your doctor may recommend kava as part of your overall treatment plan, but in most cases, a muscle injury or persistent cramps due to another condition requires other treatment methods in addition to natural supplements or herbs.
Warning
Kava can have a sedative effect, so you should not drive after taking it until you know how it will affect you. Do not take kava if you take anti-anxiety or anticonvulsant medications since kava can increase the effects of these drugs. Drinking alcohol while taking kava increases the sedative effects of the plant and increases the risk of liver damage. Pregnant women should not take kava.
Although kava has been linked to reports of severe liver damage, kava's exact effects on the liver are unknown, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Still, you shouldn't take kava if you have existing liver problems, and you should stop taking it and talk to your doctor if you experience symptoms of liver problems such as nausea, stomach pain, jaundice or loss of appetite.
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