Piper methysticum, what is commonly referred to as kava kava, is a woody shrub that has an alcoholic effect when drank. Pacific Islanders grind the pulp of the root and then add water, making a thick drink from the plant. The active ingredient is kavalactone, which has pain-relieving effects and relaxes for better sleep. Kava kava is used in various forms. The most popular forms of kava kava include root chewing, liquid such as tinctures and extracts, and in tablet or capsule form by powder.
Menopause Relief
Kava has been shown to help with menopause symptoms in an August 2001 clinical study by University of Siena doctors. It was found to have a higher degree of symptom relief in those having hormone therapy and kava kava than by hormone therapy alone.
Induces Sleep
Chemicals in kavalactones have been studied for their sleep effects and found to be somewhat effective in inducing sleep. A 1989 kava study from Lehmann, Klimke, Krach and Spatz ("The Efficacy of Cavain in Patients Suffering from Anxiety") showed promise in helping patients with sleep difficulties.
Improves Mood
In a 2004 study referenced by the University of Maryland Medical Center, 300 mg of kava kava was shown to improve mood. It was also shown to increase cognitive performance while other anxiety medications tend to decrease mood and/or cognitive function.
Reduces Anxiety
According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, there have been seven studies that show kava kava supplements to decrease anxiety symptoms more than the placebo. Many studies for kava's effects have been halted due to possible liver damage in the study participants.
Liver Damage
Always look for signs of liver damage while taking kava (yellow skin or eyes, fatigue, nausea, vomiting) and seek medical attention if you show symptoms. While still on the United States market as of 2010, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) did issue a March 2002 warning about the chance of liver failure that is linked to kava kava.
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