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KAVA KAVA is a 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 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 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 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 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 has
been shown to improve concentration, memory, and
reaction time for people suffering from anxiety. 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 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 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 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 use of the
herb can 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 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 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.
This is a 30% standardized extract and very potent.
Common Use: 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, nursing, or being treated
for depression. |
