Kavakava
The kavakava plant is a member of the pepper family. This perennial shrub is native to the islands of the Pacific Ocean. Extracts of kavakava are prepared from the thickened, underground, rootlike stem (rhizome) of the plant.
Preparations of kavakava can be used to treat:
- anxiety
- stress
- restlessness
Some reports suggest that kavakava may also be used to:
- treat pain
- treat sleeplessness
- promote muscle relaxation
Dose
Kavakava is available in a variety of product types.
- The recommended daily dose of kavakava is either 3 to 6 milliliters of extract or the equivalent of 60 to 120 milligrams of kavakava pyrones, which are also known as kavakava lactones.
- The use of kavakava should be limited to 3 months. Kavakava may be used for longer periods under medical supervision.
Cautions
Situations in which use of kavakava is not advised:
- Do not use kavakava during pregnancy and lactation.
- Do not use kavakava if you tend to have depressed moods or have been diagnosed with depression.
- Consult with your doctor before using kavakava if you have a liver condition.
- If you are anticipating surgery, inform your doctor that you are taking kavakava.
Side Effects
For short-term use of kavakava, there are few known side effects, although current research is examining a possible connection between kavakava and liver damage. With long-term or heavy use, kavakava can cause a scaly appearance of the skin and yellow discoloration of the skin, hair, and nails. These effects are reversed when the use of kavakava is discontinued.
Drug Interactions
Do not take kavakava with alcohol, barbiturates, drugs affecting the liver, or any sedative or tranquilizing drug. Although melatonin is not included in this category, the doses of both kavakava and melatonin should be reduced considerably if they are used together.
