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Kava kava is a supplement that was originally used for social and ceremonial purposes in Europe and the South Pacific. This substance is derived from the roots of the Piper methysticum shrub, and the Natural Medicines Database reports that it has been used for a number of different ailments, ranging from insomnia to anxiety.
Unfortunately, kava has also been connected to several serious and life-threatening side effects. Long-term use poses a risk of negative effects on the liver, particularly when using low-quality kava extracts in an acetate or ethanol-based formulation.
Overdose is also a possibility with kava. In light of these facts, it is important for anyone taking kava to take no more than the recommended dosage in order to reduce the potential for side effects and toxicity.
Consumers of kava should also watch for the signs of kava overdose so that they can receive prompt medical treatment. It is also important to not mix kava with drugs or compounds that could cause interactions, such as benzodiazepines and alcohol.
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Kava is an herbal supplement that may be consumed in the form of a beverage, capsule, extract, tablet, pill, or powder.
It contains active ingredients known as kavalactones that have been shown to produce neuroprotective, analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects.
Because of these effects, the Natural Medicines Database reports that kava has been used for multiple ailments, including anxiety, psychosis, tuberculosis, menstrual discomfort, headache, stress and more.
However, the United States Food and Drug Administration has not approved kava for the treatment of any ailment. In fact, the FDA has released multiple warning statements to advise consumers of the risks associated with this substance.
Can You Overdose on Kava Root?
Kava has been linked to several serious side effects. Perhaps the most significant concern related to kava involves the potential for liver damage.
More than one hundred case reports have described liver damage related to kava, with complaints including hepatitis, cirrhosis of the liver and liver failure.
Deaths related to kava consumption have also been reported. Thus, the evidence indicates that it may be possible to overdose on kava root.
There are some researchers who argue that kava can be used safely if taken at appropriate doses and if using only high quality, water-based extracts from the peeled rootstock of the plant.
However, more research is needed to rate the safety of these products – particularly at high doses. When using kava for anxiety or other conditions, it is recommended to get regular checks of liver enzyme levels to make sure this supplement is not having a negative effect.
Kava Overdose Symptoms
The symptoms of kava overdose may vary. People taking kava even in normal amounts may notice:
- Stomach pain
- Nausea
- Mild headache
- Rash
- Ataxia
- Sedation
These symptoms may resolve as kava leaves the system. However, if too much kava is consumed, liver toxicity may result. The symptoms of liver toxicity may include:
- Pain in the belly
- Nausea and/or vomiting
- Muscle or joint pain
- Fever
- Fatigue
- Loss of appetite
- Weight loss
- Itchy skin
- Swelling
- Yellow skin or eyes
- Confusion
These symptoms may occur shortly after a significant amount of kava has been consumed, or they may develop over time with continued use of the substance.
How Much Kava is Too Much?
Because the FDA has not approved kava for the treatment of any ailment, no standard dosing guidelines exist. However, according to the Natural Medicines Database, the following dosages have been used in past treatment protocols:
- For cognition – A one-time dose of three tablets, each containing 60 mg kavalactones.
- For anxiety – Up to 50 mg of kava extract standardized to contain 70 percent kavalactones three times daily.
- For insomnia – Up to 200 mg of kava extract standardized to contain 70 percent kavalactones.
- For depression – Up to 250 mg of kavalactones in tablet form, taken in divided doses.
Research has indicated that the same dosage of kava may affect different people in different ways. While some people may be able to take kava for an extended period of time without experiencing serious adverse effects, others have required a liver transplant after only one to three months of use.
In addition, while some people report that too much kava causes nausea, others may not experience symptoms with the same amount. Furthermore, people who are “poor metabolizers” seem to react more strongly to kava. Thus, it is difficult to determine how much kava is too much for each individual.
To reduce the risks of side effects and overdose when taking kava, take no more than you need to achieve the desired effect. Use kava for the shortest amount of time possible.
When beginning a kava regiment for the first time, many users begin with a low dose and gradually increase it until they have reached their desired level of effectiveness. Never take more kava than your doctor or the supplement’s manufacturer recommends.
Many kava users report a “reverse tolerance” effect whereby the effects of the supplement become stronger the more it is used. Be aware of this possibility, as you may want to decrease your dosage after using it for a short period of time.
You should also avoid taking kava with any other substances that are known to be toxic to the liver, such as other hepatotoxic supplements, prescription medications or alcohol. As with all supplements, talk to your doctor before you begin taking kava.
How Do I Remedy Kava Overdose?
The dangers of kava overdose are significant. Not only can too much kava affect your health immediately, but it may also cause significant damage over time.
If you suspect that you are suffering from the side effects of kava overdose or liver toxicity, you may need kava overdose treatment from a medical doctor.
Discontinue your use of the supplement immediately and seek medical attention. Do not attempt to drive yourself to the doctor’s office or hospital if you are experiencing symptoms of sedation or intoxication.
Article last updated on: March 12th, 2018 by Nootriment