Kava Kava

Kava Kava

(Piper methysticum)

What is Kava Kava?

This South Pacific plant has been enjoyed by native people for almost 3000 years. The Natives make it into a relaxing beverage in social gatherings, for cultural and religious ceremonies to achieve a higher level of consciousness.

Clinical studies have shown that the herb Kava Kava is a safe non-addictive anti-anxiety medicine, and as effective as prescription anxiety agents containing benzodiazepines such as Valium, Halcion, Serax, and Xanax. While benzodiazepines tend to promote lethargy and mental impairment, Kava Kava has been shown to improve concentration, memory and some studies suggest improvement of reaction time. Benzodiazepines can have serious side effects and complications including seizures, vision problems, headaches, appetite loss, neuromuscular difficulties and psychosis. Whereas, Kava Kava does not have the same side effects and is a safer alternative than Benzodiazepines.

The benefits of Kava Kava are immensely better than alternatives. Some who are stressed often turn to Benzodiazepines and it comes with harsh side effects. If they had tried other methods, such as Kava Kava, before a case becomes full-blown, they may be able to avoid a drug treatment regimen usually prescribed for severe anxiety. Kava kava, along with other anti-stress methods, such as a good diet, an exercise regimen, and meditation, can in many cases be used to reduce the effects of stress.

Cautions While Using Kava Kava:

Kava Kava should not be consumed with any other psychopharmaceuticals.

Withdrawal syndrome from benzodiazepine can include anxiety, agitation, tremulousness, insomnia, dizziness, headaches, appetite loss, ringing in the ears, blurred vision, diarrhea, neuromuscular irritability, psychosis and seizures. Studies on Kava, on the other hand, demonstrates no toxicity or withdrawal symptoms when used at recommended doses. Those doses are between 70 mg to 200 mg of kavalactones daily.

Studies suggest that 70 mg of kavalactones taken three times daily for anxiety and 150 mg to 200 mg of kavalactones taken 30 to 60 minutes prior to bedtime for insomnia.

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