Is Kava Kava a Safe Natural Remedy for Anxiety?

Millions of people each year visit their doctor with symptoms of anxiety. In fact, anxiety is one of the most common mental health problems. There are many factors, like stress and trauma, that cause anxiety to develop, and there are just as many treatment options.

Typically, doctors prescribe pharmaceutical drugs to treat anxiety symptoms, but many people do not want to risk the side effects and adverse reactions associated with prescription medications. Instead, they prefer more natural remedies for anxiety.

A natural approach to anxiety treatment includes a variety of options, including therapy, lifestyle changes, and natural supplements. There are many non-prescription supplements available that are quite effective at eliminating anxiety symptoms, and one of the more popular is kava kava.

Kava kava (Piper methysticum) has a very quick calming effect on the nervous system that results in an uplifting, euphoric feeling. It works as a muscle relaxant and mild sedative and helps calm feelings of anxiety, tension, stress, irritability, and insomnia. Kava kava also stops the mind from racing, which is often a symptom of generalized anxiety disorder.

Kava kava is a traditional Polynesian remedy that has been used safely by Polynesians for centuries, but now that it has become popular worldwide, it has been linked to some cases of liver failure in people of other ethnic groups who have difficulty metabolizing it. If you have a history of liver problems, frequently use alcoholic beverages, or are taking any medication, ask a health care professional before using kava kava. If you develop symptoms that may signal liver problems (e.g., unexplained fatigue, abdominal pain, loss of appetite, fever, vomiting, dark urine, pale stools, yellow eyes or skin), stop using kava kava immediately and see a doctor.

Do not use kava kava if you are less than 18 years of age, or if pregnant or breastfeeding. Do not combine with alcoholic beverages or prescription medications. Excessive use, or use with products that cause drowsiness, may impair your ability to operate a vehicle or heavy equipment. Do not take Kava Kava on a daily basis for more than four weeks without consulting a health care provider.

Before starting any herbal remedies for anxiety relief, get a general checkup from your doctor and discuss your treatment options. Tell your doctor if you are taking any other medication before starting kava kava, and watch for possible side effects or adverse reactions.