What is kava kava?

Kava kava is a plant native to the South Pacific islands, and its root is used for medicinal and ceremonial purposes. The root contains compounds called kavalactones, which are believed to have relaxing and anxiolytic effects.

How does it work?

The active ingredients in kava kava, such as kavalactones, are thought to have a calming effect on the nervous system, reducing anxiety and promoting relaxation. They may also have pain-relieving and anticonvulsant properties.

What are the active ingredients that are important for its medicinal properties?

The active ingredients in kava kava are a group of compounds called kavalactones, which are believed to be responsible for the plant's medicinal properties.

What forms does it come in?

Kava kava is available in various forms including capsules, extracts, tinctures, teas, and topical creams.

When was it first used for medicinal purposes?

Kava kava has been used for medicinal purposes for hundreds of years in the South Pacific, where the plant is native.

Summary:

Kava kava is a plant native to the South Pacific that has been used for medicinal purposes for hundreds of years. The root of the plant is used to make a tea-like beverage or used in other forms like capsules, extracts, tinctures, teas, and topical creams. The active ingredients in kava kava, called kavalactones, are believed to have a calming effect on the nervous system and reduce anxiety, as well as potentially having pain-relieving and anticonvulsant properties. It has been shown to help with anxiety, stress, insomnia, depression, menstrual cramps, and headaches. Kava kava is generally well-tolerated, but some possible side effects include drowsiness, dry mouth, nausea, skin rashes, loss of appetite, headache, dizziness, and liver damage (rare). The recommended daily dose varies based on the form and strength of the product, and it is best to follow the recommended dose on the product label and consult with a healthcare professional before using kava kava. It can be taken at any time of day, but it is recommended to take it with food to reduce the risk of upset stomach.

What does it help with?

• Anxiety
• Insomnia
• Stress
• Depression
• Headaches and migraines
• Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
• Menstrual cramps
• Chronic fatigue syndrome
• Muscular tension
• Epilepsy

What does it help prevent?

• Substance abuse
• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
• Cognitive decline
• Alzheimer's disease
• Depression
• Anxiety and stress
• Insomnia
• Headaches
• Menstrual cramps
• Chronic fatigue syndrome

Which foods are rich in it?

Kava Kava is not commonly found in food sources.

What are possible side effects?

Kava Kava is generally well-tolerated, but some possible side effects include:

• Drowsiness
• Dry mouth
• Nausea
• Skin rashes
• Loss of appetite
• Headache
• Dizziness
• Gastrointestinal upset
• Memory
• Liver damage (rare)

What’s the recommended daily dose?

The recommended daily dose of Kava Kava varies based on the form and strength of the product. It is important to follow the recommended dose on the product label and consult with a healthcare professional before using Kava Kava.

How many days does it take to work?

The time it takes for Kava Kava to work varies from person to person, but it typically takes several days of regular use to notice a reduction in symptoms.

What time of day is best to take it?

Kava Kava can be taken at any time of day, but it is best to consult with a healthcare professional for individualized recommendations.

Is it best to take it with or without food?

The effect of taking kava kava with or without food is not well-established, but it is typically recommended to take it with food to reduce the risk of upset stomach.

Recommended use for insomnia

• Time it takes to work: approximately 4 to 8 weeks
• Dosage for 18yrs old and up: 120 mg to 180 mg per day