Kava Kava: Applications, Advantages, Potential Hazards, Proper Dosing, and Interactions with Other Substances
Kava kava, a plant native to the Pacific Ocean islands, has been traditionally used in cultural and religious ceremonies to induce a state of inebriation. It is also known for its calming effects, often employed to relieve anxiety and promote sleep. However, it's essential to approach its use with caution due to potential risks, particularly concerning liver health.
Kava kava's active ingredient, kavalactones, can make a person feel relaxed, talkative, and euphoric. These properties have led to its availability in various forms, including premade tea, liquid, tablets, and capsules. Clinical trials suggest that daily doses between 20 and 300 mg of kava kava may be effective for anxiety, with a recommended daily dosage of 60 to 250 mg for adults in the form of dietary supplements.
Despite these benefits, long-term use (beyond two months) of kava kava has been associated with liver damage. The liver injury pattern is typically hepatocellular, with markedly elevated liver enzymes and symptoms such as fatigue, nausea, jaundice, and in some cases, immunoallergic features like rash and fever. The risk of liver damage is higher with high doses, poor-quality or isolated kava extracts, especially alcohol-based, combination with alcohol and other medications affecting the liver, and prolonged use.
The long-term effects of kava kava use on the liver can be serious, including hepatotoxicity, hepatitis, cirrhosis, and potentially liver failure. Cases of severe liver injury have been reported, some requiring liver transplantation and even resulting in death. Due to these risks, many countries have restricted or banned kava products, and health authorities, such as the FDA in the U.S., have issued warnings regarding kava-related liver toxicity.
People with existing liver disease or those taking medications that impact the liver are advised to avoid kava altogether. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should also exercise caution, as there is limited research on the effects of kava kava during pregnancy.
Potential side effects of kava kava include an upset stomach, headache, dizziness, and kava dermopathy, which may cause dry skin, flaky or scaly skin, and yellow skin. There may also be potential interactions between kava kava and alcohol, as well as other medications, particularly those with sedative effects or potential for liver damage.
In summary, while limited short-term use of good-quality kava might be safe for many, long-term use poses a significant risk of serious liver injury and should be approached with caution and medical supervision. People are encouraged to speak with a healthcare professional before taking kava kava, especially if they are currently taking medication. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in the U.S. suggests using kava kava with caution, and its use has been linked to liver damage, although the exact frequency and cause are unknown.
- In health-and-wellness circles, Kava kava, a plant native to the Pacific Ocean islands, is renowned for its bipolar effects of inducing sleep and promoting relaxation, while also acting as a mood elevator.
- The active ingredient in Kava kava, kavalactones, can be found in various forms like premade tea, liquid, tablets, and capsules, and clinical science suggests they may be effective for treating anxiety with daily doses between 20 and 300 mg.
- However, extended use (beyond two months) of Kava kava may potentially lead to liver disease, causing symptoms such as fatigue, nausea, jaundice, and in extreme cases, liver failure, which could necessitate a liver transplant or even be fatal.
- Thus, individuals with existing liver disease, those taking medications affecting the liver, pregnant and breastfeeding women, and people planning to undergo therapies-and-treatments for mental-health issues should exercise caution when considering Kava kava supplements.
- Potential side effects of Kava kava also include an upset stomach, headache, dizziness, and kava dermopathy, which may manifest as dry skin, flaky or scaly skin, and yellow skin.
- Moreover, Kava kava may interact with alcohol and other medications, particularly those with sedative effects or potential for liver damage, so it is crucial to discuss its use with a healthcare professional beforehand.
- Given these potential risks, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) advises using Kava kava with caution and encourages people to consult their healthcare provider before incorporating it into their nutrition and wellness regimen.
