Kava (also known as kava kava) has gained popularity as a kinder, gentler alternative to prescription drugs. Kava is known for lessening anxiety and reducing nervousness without the “deadening” effects associated with sedatives.
The Latin name for kava, Piper methysticum, might lead you to believe kava is more powerful than people who take it experience kava to be, since it translates into “intoxicating pepper.” It is true than in the South Pacific kava is brewed into a special drink that is consumed at special occasions and is known to relax people and elevate their moods, but this kava effect doesn’t seem to quite equal intoxication.
A note of warning about kava at the outset: For years kava has been used as an alternative to more powerful sedatives in Europe, but reports of liver damage from kava have dampened physician enthusiasm for it, at least until a clear picture emerges of what kava’s real risks are.
In the United States it is not necessary to obtain a prescription for kava because it is classified as a nutritional supplement, not a drug. So, American consumers are warned about kava, but little is known about any untoward side effects of kava. For those of you considering kava, consult a competent physician first and proceed with caution.
1) Kava is thought to act on the limbic system, that part of the brain that controls emotions.
2) Unlike tranquilizers, kava does not have a dulling effect on mental functioning.
3) Kava is known for improving alertness and reaction time in those who take it.
4) In addition to not being addictive, as tranquilizers can be, people do not build up a tolerance to kava.
5) Kava can help to reduce depression and anxiety.
6) Due to its relaxing affect, people find that kava helps them sleep.
7) Kava is reputed to lessen chronic pain and lessen muscle aches.
8) Kava may help to reduce seizures.
9) In patients recovering from strokes, kava is used to improve their recovery.
10) Those who have taken kava for more than four weeks should have their liver checked by a physician.
The active ingredients of kava are located in its roots. A set of kava roots can weigh over 20 pounds. Experts in the areas of herbal treatments believe kava root is best consumed after its vital compounds have been preserved by flash-freezing, instead of trying to extract them form the kava root, which is thought to diminish the effect.
People who take kava report experiencing its benefits quickly. In the short term kava has few side effects, beyond upset stomach in some people. Again, though, the concern is the longer term impact of kava on the liver. There are concerns about it interacting with prescription drugs, so consultation with a physician is important before beginning to take kava and deciding on the appropriate amount to consume.
Copyright © Dennis Becker, 2004.
This article may be reproduced in its entirety in your ezine or on your web site, as long as this resource box, which includes the copyright notification and live (clickable) URL below, remains intact. It is one of the many "Top 10" articles about vitamins, minerals, and herbs, more of which can be found at:
http://www.a1-vitamins-and-supplements.com
