Kava kava is a bush which has the potential of growing to a hight of 4 metres. It originates from Polynesia where a aqueous extract of the root has been used for religious ceremonies for more than 1000 years. Today, Kava root is a constituent of the national drink of Fiji.
Kava Kava can be used as a part of the treatment of anxiety and mild depression without the risk of developing a dependence situation. This also applies to the treatment of epilepsy since Kava Kava has an antispastic effect.
Kava Kava can be used for inflammation of the bladder since it has an antibacterial, diuretic and healing effect on an irritated mucous membrane of the bladder.
Kava Kava is used in the USA for hyperactive children along with essential fatty acids, multivitamins, and multiminerals.
Dosage
Depends on the product's content of kava lactones.
Dosage of dried herb:
1.5 - 3 g. (100 to 200 mg. of kava lactones) a day.
Dosage of extract (1:2):
20 - 60 ml. spread out over a week (standardized extract).
Warning
If you use very large doses over a long period of time you may develop a rash which usually first appears in the face. Some people experience allergic reactions on the skin, which, however, disappear after they stop using Kava.
Should not be used during pregnancy, while breast-feeding, or by patients with Parkinson's disease.
Interactions
Do not take kava kava if taking benzodiazepins (nerve and sleeping medicine), antipsychotic medicine, or medicine for Parkinson’s (Levodopa).
In Germany and Switzerland, Kava Kava has been linked with 30 cases of hepatotoxicity. These cases are now being investigated. Until a conclusion is established, Kava kava is regarded as unsafe. However, investigations indicate that these liver damages are caused by not using Kava root but Kava bark and -leaves plus the fact that in some cases, acetone has been used in the production of the Kava preparation. Kava root, therefore, is the only acceptable part of the plant for internal use.
