| This herb, a member of the pepper
family, grows as a bush in the South Pacific. Explorer Captain James Cook, who
gave this plant the botanical name of "intoxicating pepper",
first discovered kava kava. Kava has been used for over 3,000 years for its
medicinal effects as a sedative, muscle relaxant, diuretic, and as a remedy for
nervousness, stress, and insomnia. The botanical has been used in parts of the
Pacific at traditional social gatherings as a relaxant and in cultural and
religious ceremonies to achieve a higher level of consciousness. The roots can
be made into a mildly narcotic beverage that is comparable to popular cocktails
in our culture. In Germany, kava kava is used as a nonprescription drug to
reduce anxiety. Kava kava was first mentioned in scientific records in 1886, and
it is gaining popularity in the US for its relaxing effects.
More recently, kava kava has also gained popularity with the natives of
Hawaii, Australia and New Guinea where it is used medicinally as well as
recreationally. Kava kava also is effective as a pain reliever and can be used
instead of aspirin, acetaminophen and ibuprofen.
Recent clinical studies have shown that the herb kava kava is a safe
non-addictive anti-anxiety medicine, and as effective as prescription anxiety
agents containing benzodiazepines such as valium. While benzodiazepines tend to
promote lethargy and mental impairment, kava kava has been shown to improve
concentration, memory, and reaction time for people suffering from anxiety. Kava
kava has been clinically demonstrated as a means of achieving a state of
relaxation without the adverse side effects.
Several rhizome components and lactones have been isolated in the kava kava
root. Of the fifteen lactones isolated from kava, there are six major lactones (kavalactones)
known to provide psychoactive activity: kawain, methysticin, demethoxy-yangonin,
dihydrokawain, dihydomethysicin, and yongonin. All kavalactones are
physiologically active, though it is the fat-soluble kavalactones derived from
kava resin
that have the greatest effect on the central nervous system. Kava kava also has
a direct effect on muscle tension similar to tranquilizers. The activity of the
kava rhizome is related to several arylethylene pyrones similar in structure to
myristicin, which is found in nutmeg.
Kava kava is mildly narcotic and produces mild euphoric changes characterized by
elevated mood, fluent and lively speech and increased sense of sound.
Higher doses can lead to muscle weakness, visual impairment, dizziness and
drying of the skin. Long term "very heavy use" high dosage of the herb
may contribute to hypertension, reduced protein levels, blood cell
abnormalities, or liver damage. Alcohol consumption increases the toxicity
of the pharmacological constituents. It is not recommended for those who intend
on driving or where quick reaction time is required.
Kava kava is the most relaxing botanical herb with exception of the opium poppy.
Pharmacological studies show kava kava's active ingredients, kavalactones,
produce physical and mental relaxation and a feeling of well being. It has also
been used in the treatment of ailments of the genitourinary tract including vaginitis,
gonorrhea and menstrual cramps. Kava kava is a diuretic and an anti-inflammatory,
thus useful for gout, rheumatism, bronchial congestion, cystitis and
prostatis. It is an effective local anesthetic and pain reliever when applied
externally as a liniment. The relaxed state and sharpening of senses also
contribute to aphrodisiac effect.
Parts Used: Root and rhizome. Used as powder, fluid extract, and
tonic beverage.
Common Use:
Kava kava root is primarily used as a natural sedative and sleep enhancement.
Herbalists have traditionally used it as a remedy for nervousness and
insomnia. Kava kava is an effective relaxant able to induce a feeling of
relaxation, peace and contentment, along with a sharpening of the senses. As a
sleep aid it promotes deep and restful sleep. It is also a muscle relaxant
that can help relieve cramping due to spasms.
NOTE: Do not use if pregnant or nursing
Kava kava is also known as:
Kawa, Piper methysticum
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