Kava Kava

If you have had the chance to visit Hawaii or one of the other islands in the South Pacific, there's a good chance you've come in contact with kava kava. Kava is an essential and integral part of life in the Pacific Islands and is often thought of as one of the most precious gifts from the Earth.  Not only is Kava Kava a pleasant drink that can be a safe alternative to alcohol, but Kava Kava has been prescribed as an effective folk remedy for anxiety, insomnia, and back pain.

Kava kava is largely used as a celebratory drink. It is used in much the same way that alcohol is used in the West. It marks celebratory events such as weddings, public festivals, and holidays, and it is even used in ceremonies honoring the dead. Unlike alcohol, kava does not produce or stimulate aggression, and it does not condemn the user to the dreaded hangover.

Many people find other medicinal uses for kava kava. It is interesting to note that kava has been shown to help ease anxiety, depression, and to help produce restful sleep. It is used by athletes as well as businessmen to help "take the edge off" and focus concentration.

Frequently Asked Questions About Kava

Q: Is it addictive?

Kava has not been shown to be physically addictive. It has been used safely for over 3,000 years, without any reported withdrawal symptoms whatsoever.

Q: What does it do?

• This natural herbal drink relaxes muscles.

• Calms nerves.

• Creates a general feeling of well-being.

• Induces a feeling of peace, relaxation and contentment.

• It enhances mental alertness and concentration.

Q: Can I take it anytime of the day?

In the South Pacific drinking kava is mostly used for ceremonial, recreational, and social purposes. Kava is consumed at the end of the workday, and the ritual of kava preparation and drinking affords both a social time and an opportunity for individual meditation.

In our hectic modern society "kava time" is anytime. The lack of mental slowing allows kava to be used during the day especially when we find ourselves anxious or in stressful situations like:

• Going on a date

• Visiting the dentist

• Giving a presentation

• Attending a party

• Business meetings

• Going on a interview

• Boarding a plane

• Taking exams

And for the most part kava is best consumed after work, the overall effect is delightful, pleasurable, relaxing, happy, peaceful with complete mental alertness.

When kava is taken before bedtime, it induces a restful sleep and a refreshed feeling after awakening.

Q: Does kava have side effects?

Kava produces no side effects when taken in moderate doses, its abuse can lead to health problems. Heavy abusers studied suffered from shortness of breath, dry scaly skin, and slight alterations in red and white blood cells and platelets.  The reports of liver damage have widely been dismissed and even the country that hosted the study has repealed their ban on Kava Kava because it has been proven a safe and effective herbal product for almost any age.

Q: How much can I drink? Can I overdose on it?

The most significant anti-anxiety studies show that an effective daily dose of kava is 70-210 milligrams of kavalactones. The amount of kava to take depends on your purpose for using it and your individual sensitivity to the effects of kavalactones.

Death or severe illness from exclusive use of kava has not been reported in any medical literature.

Q: Is it safe?

Whenever you first try a new medicine, herb, or supplement, it is always best to start with low dosages and build up. Kava, if used appropriately, can reduce the stress in our lives. It can also be used to decrease or prevent the amount of stress or anxiety we anticipate to be exposed to. Studies show the occasional use of kava presents no health problems . Years of use in Germany have produced no reports of troublesome drug interactions as well.

If you have any questions or concerns about your health or possible interactions with prescription medications, simply consult your doctor.

Many people find other medicinal uses for kava kava. It is interesting to note that kava has been shown to help ease anxiety, depression, and to help produce restful sleep. It is used by athletes as well as businessmen to help "take the edge off" and focus concentration.