Kava kava is a natural treatment for anxiety and stress, originating from the South Pacific. It can be taken in various forms, but dosage and potential side effects should be considered. It is not recommended for daily use and may interact with certain medications.
Kava kava is a pepper-like plant native to the South Pacific that has been shown to be effective as a natural treatment for a variety of ailments. If you are interested in using kava kava for anxiety, the most important thing you can do is familiarize yourself with the origins of the plant, choose the best way to take the supplement, and determine the correct dosage for maximum effectiveness. You should also familiarize yourself with the possible side effects of taking kava kava and ensure that there are no potentially harmful interactions that could occur between this natural remedy and any other medications you are currently taking.
The first recorded evidence of kava kava use dates back to 1777, although documentation implies that it had been in use by people on the South Pacific islands for quite some time before. The roots of the plant were eaten raw for maximum effect, while the leaves were chewed in a more casual manner. Long associated with its use as a central component in many religious ceremonies, the calming effects of consuming the roots and leaves of the plant were the main reason it was used so widely. This calming effect is also the reason why so many people believe that taking kava kava to relieve anxiety and stress is so effective.
Kava kava supplements come in many forms, each much easier to digest than the original methods. Although somewhat more difficult to obtain, the raw form of kava kava is the most potent. The leaves can be used to make a tea-like drink, sometimes mixed with small pieces of the plant’s root. Alternatively, the root and leaves of the plant can be dried and crushed into a fine powder, taken in pill form, and easily found at your local pharmacy. Kava kava-infused drinks are also growing in popularity, which is useful if you want the anxiety-relieving benefits of kava kava combined with the convenience of a pre-mixed drink.
Unlike many herbal supplements, kava kava is not designed for daily use. Instead, the best way to use kava kava to relieve anxiety is in a
as needed for maximum effectiveness. Most products that contain kava kava usually contain around 100 mg (about four thousandths of an ounce) of the supplement. The suggested dosage at this concentration is once or twice a day, no more than three to four days per week. Smaller doses can be taken daily to use as a sleep aid, but lower doses will generally not help with anxiety problems.
If you plan to start taking kava kava to relieve anxiety, you may experience side effects. The most common side effects include drowsiness, dizziness, nausea, and headache. Less common side effects may include decreased libido and sensitivity to ultraviolet (UV) light. Certain people with known allergies to various items in the pepper family may also experience an allergic reaction to kava kava. If an allergic reaction occurs, often marked by rash, itchy skin, or hives, you should stop taking the supplement immediately and contact your doctor.
The main interaction that can occur when taking kava kava for anxiety exists in individuals who are also taking certain classes of antidepressants. If you are currently taking antidepressants or have recently been on a course of treatment involving antidepressants, you should consult with your doctor before taking any form of kava kava supplement. You should also avoid taking kava kava if you have Parkinson’s disease or any form of liver problem.
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