Kava is a compound (extracted from a plant member of the pepper family called Piper methysticum) native to islands of the western Pacific.

Overview

The root of the plant is emulsified into a beverage or it can be dried and incorporated into dietary supplement form. Kava may also be called kava-kava, kavain, yaqona, and more.

Historically, kava has been used for thousands of years in religious rituals and ceremonial practices and for its medicinal effects, such as pain reliever, muscle relaxant, and as a remedy for anxiety, nervousness, and insomnia.

A set of compounds known as lactones are present in abundance, almost exclusively in kava, and are named kavalactones. These compounds are thought to be responsible for the health benefits reported in traditional kava preparations, though it is important to note that there are potential risks associated with its use.

Special functions

Reported benefits of kava include neurological support, particularly for stress and anxiety, and for anti-inflammatory actions, as well as for anti-cancer potential. However, kava is best known for potential benefits against generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) with a number of clinical studies indicating positive benefits with kava use compared with placebo control. The mechanisms of action for the proposed benefits of kava are not well understood and require additional research and study.

Side effects, toxicity and interactions

Kava use is not free from side effects, including fatigue, headaches, tremors, and restlessness and its incorporation into a daily regimen should be treated with caution. Long-term use of kava may contribute to kava dermopathy, a condition involving dry, flaky skin with a yellow discoloration.

Additionally, liver toxicity has been reported with kava use — between the late 1990s and early 2000s, over 100 cases of liver toxicity were reported with kava exposure. However, due to dissimilarities among kava products and inadequacies in reporting, there is limited information to support a causal relationship between kava and liver damage.

Intake of kava may result in adverse drug interactions and it should not be taken with alcohol, certain anxiety medications (such as benzodiazepines and barbiturates), or with medications commonly used for patients with Parkinson’s disease. Kava may interact with other substances as well so be sure to talk with your healthcare provider about any other medications or supplements you use before incorporating kava supplements into your daily regimen.

(Environmental Nutrition is the award-winning independent newsletter written by nutrition experts dedicated to providing readers up-to-date, accurate information about health and nutrition in clear, concise English. For more information, visit www.environmentalnutrition.com.)

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