What it is
Kava, also known as Piper methysticum, is a tropical plant that is native to the Pacific Islands. The plant has been used for centuries by the people of the Pacific Islands for its sedative and relaxing properties. In recent years, kava has gained popularity as a dietary supplement and is now widely available in many different forms, including capsules, tablets, tinctures, and drinks.
The history of kava as a supplement can be traced back to the people of the Pacific Islands, who have used the plant for centuries as a part of their traditional medicine. In the 19th and early 20th centuries, kava was introduced to Western culture and scientific study, leading to a better understanding of its chemical properties and potential benefits. In recent years, kava has gained popularity as a natural alternative to pharmaceutical drugs for the treatment of anxiety and stress.
As a supplement, kava is typically used to help promote relaxation and reduce anxiety. It is thought to work by increasing levels of certain chemicals in the brain that are involved in relaxation and reducing anxiety, such as dopamine and GABA. Kava is classified as an herbal supplement, which means that it is not regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in the same way that pharmaceutical drugs are.
In terms of its chemical properties, kava is classified as a "methysticum" type of plant, which means that it contains compounds known as kavalactones. These kavalactones are thought to be responsible for the sedative and relaxing effects of kava. There are several different kavalactones found in kava, and the specific mix of kavalactones can vary depending on the type of kava plant and how it is prepared.
There are several common forms of kava on the market today. One of the most popular forms is kava tea, which is made by steeping the roots of the kava plant in water. This produces a tea with a strong, earthy flavor and a sedative effect. Another common form of kava is a tincture, which is made by soaking the kava roots in alcohol to extract the active compounds. Tinctures are often more potent than kava tea and are taken in smaller doses. Other forms of kava include capsules and tablets, which are made by drying and grinding the kava roots into a powder, and then pressing the powder into a pill form. These forms of kava are convenient and easy to take, but they may not be as effective as kava tea or tinctures because the active compounds may not be as easily absorbed by the body.
How it works
The mechanism of action of kava is not well understood, but it is thought to work by increasing levels of certain chemicals in the brain that are involved in relaxation and reducing anxiety, such as dopamine and GABA. Kava is also thought to have an effect on certain receptors in the brain that are involved in mood and emotion, such as serotonin and noradrenaline receptors.
When taken as directed, kava can produce a feeling of relaxation and reduced anxiety. It is typically used to help promote relaxation and reduce anxiety in individuals who are experiencing stress or anxiety related to everyday life events. Kava is not a sedative, and it does not produce the same type of drowsy or intoxicated feeling as other substances, such as alcohol. However, kava can have potential side effects. Some people may experience gastrointestinal upset, such as stomach pain, nausea, or vomiting, when taking kava. In rare cases, kava can also cause liver damage, and it should not be used by individuals with liver disease or liver problems. In addition, kava should not be combined with alcohol or other sedative medications, as it can increase the sedative effects and increase the risk of liver damage.
It is important to note that kava is not intended to be used as a treatment for any medical condition, and it should not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice. If you are considering using kava as a supplement, it is important to speak with your healthcare provider first to discuss the potential risks and benefits.
How it is taken
The typical way that most people use kava as a supplement is by drinking it as a tea or taking it in capsule or tablet form. When taken as a tea, kava is typically prepared by steeping the roots of the plant in hot water for at least 15 minutes. This produces a tea with a strong, earthy flavor and a sedative effect. When taken in capsule or tablet form, kava is typically taken orally with a full glass of water.
The recommended dose of kava can vary depending on the specific product and the individual's needs. In general, the recommended dose of kava is between 60 and 240 milligrams per day, taken in divided doses. It is important to follow the dosage instructions on the product label and not exceed the recommended dose.
It is important to avoid taking kava too late in the evening, as it can interfere with sleep if taken too close to bedtime, unless this is the desired effect. In this case, the best time of day to take kava is typically in the evening, as it can produce a feeling of relaxation and reduced anxiety that may be helpful for promoting sleep. It is also important to avoid combining kava with alcohol or other sedative medications, as it can increase the sedative effects and increase the risk of liver damage.
References and further reading:
"Kava" by the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health.
"Kava: Uses, Side Effects, Interactions, Dosage, and Warning" by the Mayo Clinic.
"Kava: A Comprehensive Review of Efficacy, Safety, and Psychopharmacology" by the Journal of Clinical Psychopharmacology.
"Kava and Anxiety: Is This an Effective Natural Treatment?" by the Anxiety and Depression Association of America.
"Kava: A Comprehensive Review on Its Traditional and Modern Uses" by the Current Drug Safety.