Kava-Kava

Basic Information

Biological name (genus and species):
Piper methysticum
Parts used for medicinal purposes:
Roots
Chemicals this herb contains:
Demethoxyyangonin
Dihydrokawin
Dihydromethysticin
Flavorawin A
Kawain
Methysticin
Starch
Yangonin

KNOWN EFFECTS

Depresses the central nervous system. Produces skin pigmentation.

Miscellaneous information:
Is used to make a fermented liquor. Sedative effect is very mild.

UNPROVED SPECULATED BENEFITS

Is used as a sedative for anxiety disorders. Induces restful sleep. Treats fatigue. Helps body dispose of excess fluid by increasing amount of urine produced. Is used as a genito-urinary antiseptic. Treats coughs. Is used as a douche.

WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS

Don't take if you:
Are pregnant, think you may be pregnant or plan pregnancy in the near future.

Consult your doctor if you:
Take this herb for any medical problem that doesn't improve in 2 weeks. There may be safer, more-effective treatments. Take any medicinal drugs or herbs including aspirin, laxatives, cold and cough remedies, antacids, vitamins, minerals, amino acids, supplements, other prescription or non-prescription drugs.

Pregnancy:
Problems in pregnant women taking small or usual amounts have not been proved. But the chance of problems does exist. Don't use unless prescribed by your doctor.

Breast-feeding:
Problems in breast-fed infants of lactating mothers taking small or usual amounts have not been proved. But the chance of problems does exist. Don't use unless prescribed by your doctor.

Infants and children:
Treating infants and children under 2 with any herbal preparation is hazardous.

Others:
None expected if you are beyond childhood and under 45, basically healthy and take for only a short time.

Storage:
Keep cool and dry, but don't freeze. Store safely away from children.

Safe dosage:
At present no "safe" dosage has been established.

TOXICITY

Rated slightly dangerous, particularly in children, persons over
55 and those who take larger than appropriate quantities for
extended periods of time.
For symptoms of toxicity: See Adverse Reactions, Side Effects or Overdose Symptoms section below.

ADVERSE REACTIONS, SIDE EFFECTS OR OVERDOSE SYMPTOMS