Kava Kava
(Piper Meyhysyicum)
Also called: Kava, kava pepper.
Source: Found throughout the South Pacific islands.
Medicinal Uses: Anxiety, stress, insomnia.
Part used: Root.
Forms available: Capsules, tablets, tinctures, combination
formulas. Some products are standardised to 30 to 40 per cent kavalactones.
Caution: Do not use if you're pregnant, breastfeeding or have been
diagnosed with depression. May increase the effects of alcohol and other substances
that act on the central nervous system. Be cautious when driving or using
machinery. Do not exceed recommended dose, and limit use to one to three months.
Excessive use can cause a scaly yellowing of skin, which disappears when treatment
is discontinued.
Important information: Threatened in the wild.
