Feb 8, 2023 · Kava is an extract that comes from a shrub called Piper methysticum, which is native to Micronesia and Polynesia. “The root is emulsified to make an intoxicating beverage,” Dr. Goldman explains. “It can also be dried and used as a dietary supplement to …

There are over 260 drug interactions with kava, and some of them are serious and may cause liver toxicity or breathing problems. Kava should not be used with alcohol or other drugs or herbs that can also cause liver toxicity or respiratory depression.

Kava or kava kava (Piper methysticum: Latin 'pepper' and Latinized Greek 'intoxicating') is a plant in the pepper family, native to the Pacific Islands. [1] . The name kava is from Tongan and Marquesan, meaning 'bitter.’.

Kava is a beverage or extract made from the Piper methysticum plant. In the South Pacific, it's a popular drink that is used in ceremonies for relaxation. The name "kava" comes from the...

Mar 7, 2025 · Explore the effects and uses of Kava, a depressant drug derived from the root of the Piper methysticum shrub, used traditionally and medicinally.

Kava, also known as Piper methysticum (intoxicating pepper), is a perennial shrub native to the South Pacific Islands, including Hawaii. It is harvested for its rootstock, which contains the pharmacologically active compounds kavalactones. The term kava also refers to the non-fermented, psychoactive beverage prepared from the rootstock.

Jul 8, 2024 · It is still legal to sell kava kava in the United States, but the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) suggests that people should use it with caution. This article explores kava kava’s uses,...

Kava is native to the islands of the western Pacific and is a member of the pepper family. Pacific islanders have used kava for thousands of years as a medicine and for ritual purposes. Today, kava is promoted as a dietary supplement for anxiety, insomnia, and other conditions.

Kava is suggested for use in treating anxiety disorders, benzodiazepine withdrawal, common cold/upper respiratory tract infections (URIs), depression, epilepsy, headaches/migraines, insomnia, musculoskeletal pain, psychosis, and stress. Learn about side effects, dosage, drug interactions, and more.

Jul 15, 2024 · Research into the use of kava has been conducted since the late 19th century. In the early 1900s, kava was used as a diuretic and for gonorrhea and nervous disorders. It has been one of the top botanical sellers in the United States and …