Common Names: kava, kava kava, ava pepper, ava root, kawa
Latin Name: Piper methysticum
Background
- Kava is native to the islands of the South Pacific and is a member of the pepper family.
- Pacific islanders have used kava in ceremonies to bring about a state of relaxation.
- Today, people use kava as a dietary supplement for anxiety.
- The root and underground stem (fresh or dried) are used to prepare drinks; they are also made into extracts, capsules, and tablets.
How Much Do We Know?
- There is a fair amount of clinical research on kava.
What Have We Learned?
- Kava supplements may have a small effect on reducing anxiety, but they have been linked to a risk of severe liver disease.
- Differences in dosages used, preparation methods, and study designs have resulted in mixed conclusions about kava’s usefulness.
What Do We Know About Safety?
- In March 2002, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration warned health care providers and the public about the risk of liver damage associated with kava.
- Combining kava with alcohol may increase the risk of liver damage.
- Long-term use of high doses of kava has been associated with dry, scaly skin or yellowing of the skin.
- Heavy consumption of kava has been associated with heart problems and eye irritation.