The underground stem & roots are used for Kava.
Kava
Updated Mar. 02nd, 2022
Kava Kava, otherwise known as piper methysticum, is a member of the pepper family and is native to Polynesia, from which it spread to many western Pacific islands. Traditionally the rhizomes were chewed or ground into a pulp and mixed with water/liquid to create a thick mash that slightly numbed the mouth and induced feelings of well-being, calm and contentment.
'Kava ceremonies' were even held for visiting royalty or special guests. It was James Cook who first introduced the herb to Europe. A little over 20 years ago, Kava became very popular in the West and became a go-to herb for the treatment of anxiety and insomnia. Still today, it is considered an extremely effective alternative to anti-depressants and sleep aids, often associated with undesirable side effects. Kava's active compounds are known collectively as kavalactones. Research has demonstrated the ability of kavalactones to bind to a number of receptors in the brain, including dopamine receptors. This explains the herb's calming, muscle relaxing and mild analgesic-like effects.
Effectiveness
Ensure that when you are looking for a kava kava supplement that you find a standardized extract type, as this will make certain that you are taking a kava supplement with a guaranteed minimum potency of the therapeutically established clinical dosage. High quality kava herb supplements are typically standardized to a minimum of 30% kavalactones.
This type is superior to the tea form made from the raw root, which must be consumed in larger doses to compensate for the lower level of active ingredient.
How to take Kava safely
Kava is available in the United states, and also in Canada as it has recently received approval for sale from Health Canada and been issued an Natural Health Product number. The Natural Health Product Number identifies its safety and therapeutic effectiveness for anxiety, stress, and insomnia.
Most people who take kava feel calm and relaxed, so it is important not to take kava at times when you require mental alertness, such as driving.
Kava Kava is ideal for those who experience periodic anxiety or stress as it does not require consistent use to be effective. This relaxing herb can be used on an as needed basis and will produce calming effects usually on the first usage of kava.
Kava kava is the best herb for anxiety and bad nerves. Love It!!!
Hello Marie,
Thank you for sharing your experience with Kava Kava. Herbal supplements are excellent at supporting stress and anxiety. Here are some more articles where you can learn more:
https://www.nationalnutrition.ca/articles/health-concerns/anxiety/
https://www.nationalnutrition.ca/articles/health-concerns/stress/
Have a healthy day!