Kava Pills Review, Doses and Effects on Mood

Kava kava pills are often used for anxiety, although they can also be used for recreational purposes. Despite the benefits they might provide, such as feelings of calmness, they have been associated with dangerous health effects on the liver.

In fact, the U.S. and several other countries have issued warnings on the use of kava, and a few countries, including Germany, have banned it from the market.

Kava kava, or Piper methysticum, is a plant found in parts of the western Pacific. People in this region have used the roots of this plant for centuries to induce feelings of relaxation. Beverages containing kava are also used as part of official ceremonies in Fiji.

Kava pills are readily available online, but it is important for consumers to know how to take them safely. This helps reduce the risk of adverse effects on the liver or other side effects. Consumers should note that kava should be taken under a doctor’s guidance, especially for those who have underlying conditions that affect the liver.

Kava

Herbal Supplement

Anxiety

Mood

Sleep

How It Works:

• Reduces feeling of anxiety & stress
• Improves feeling of wellbeing
• Shown to improve sleep & insomnia

Dosage:

Between 100 - 300 mg per day

Safety:

Rated Possibly Safe

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Uses of Kava Pills

According to the Natural Medicines Database, Kava has a number of uses when taken orally, such as managing anxiety disorders, reducing stress, managing attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder and reducing insomnia.

Other oral uses for kava pills include depression, migraines and other headaches, common cold symptoms, epilepsy and chronic fatigue syndrome.

While Kava has been used for these conditions in traditional medicine, there is limited research into its medicinal effects for uses other than anxiety and insomnia. The FDA has not approved Kava as a treatment for any medical conditions.

Kava pills have also been used for managing conditions that affect the pelvic area, such as urinary tract infections, vaginal prolapse, inflammation of the uterus and venereal disease. It has been studied for discomfort that occurs during menstruation, as well as anxiety and hot flashes in menopausal women.

Purported Benefits of Kava Pills

Kava extract is a source of natural compounds known as kavalactones, according to the National Institutes of Health. These lactones are responsible for producing calming effects. [1] Kavalactones may also exhibit analgesic and sedative properties.

Taking kava pills for anxiety is considered possibly effective, based on a 2013 study that was published in the Journal of Clinical Psychopharmacology. [2]

Researchers have also studied kava as a way to manage stress and insomnia, but the Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database states that the evidence to support its effectiveness for these uses is insufficient. [3]

Researchers have also used kava in studies on epilepsy, ADHD, depression and headaches, but so far, there is insufficient evidence to support its effectiveness for these uses. More research must be conducted in order to determine whether it is effective for these conditions.

In some cases, research institutions have stopped conducting kava studies. The Food and Drug Administration’s warning on the adverse effects of kava on the liver resulted in the suspension of kava studies at the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health. [4]

How to Take Kava Pills

Kava kava pills for anxiety, stress relief, and sleep problems are available at Amazon in different forms, including liquid phyto-capsules and tablets. Bulk powders are another popular option among consumers as they tend to have lower prices per serving.

The amount of kava contained in oral pills varies, with some offering 450 or 500 MG of kava and others offering lower amounts of 200 MG. The concentration of active kavalactones in the products may also be different.

Some brands of kava pills include Kavana, Natrol, Natural Balance and Gaia Herbs. Some of these products include other ingredients that also promote relaxation and stress relief, such as 5-HTP, Valerian Root and L-Theanine.

Overall, a large percentage of consumers report that these products are effective at easing anxiety and stress, improving sleep and promoting muscle relaxation. A small percentage of users reported no noticeable results from using these products.

The dosage for kava pills depends on several factors, including age and medical conditions. Consumers should ask their doctor about safe dosages. Consumers should note that it can take a few weeks for results to appear when taking kava pills.

Kava pills are generally well tolerated in small to medium dosages for 4 weeks or less, when used by health adults who are not taking other medications. Using larger dosages or using these pills for longer than 4 weeks can raise the risk of hair loss, partial hearing loss and other adverse effects.

Side Effects of Kava Pills

The use of kava pills carries a risk of serious liver damage. The University of Maryland Medical Center states that more than 30 cases of liver problems associated with kava use have occurred in Europe. [5]

The exact cause of this has not been determined. Researchers do not know if kava use alone damages the liver or if combined use with other medications or substances increases the risk of liver damage.

Due to the risk of liver damage, especially in consumers who have hepatitis or other liver problems, kava pills should strictly be used while under the care of a doctor. Kava is not considered safe to use for women who are pregnant or women who are breastfeeding.

Kava can cause other side effects, such as nausea, light-headedness, drowsiness and skin problems. Some users say that the product can make them feel groggy and hungover the day after it is used. It should not be used by those who are driving or operating machinery.

Certain medications can have interactions with kava pills, including anticonvulsants, diuretics, anti-anxiety drugs and medications that affect the liver. It is important to talk to a doctor before using kava with other medications.

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