Kava Kava
(Piper methysticum)
Also know as Ava
Botanical Information
A large-leaved perennial shrub from the Pepper family with angled jointed stems and spikes of tiny green flowers.
Working with Kava Kava
Part(s) Used
Root
Herb Forms
Tincture, powder in capsule, standardized extract in capsules and tablets, bulk herb, powder.
Affects
Kava is the national drink of Fiji and is popular throughout the South Seas. Drinking kava imparts a calm feeling, relaxes the body, and sometimes enhances mental activity and communication with a sharpening of the senses. It is used in religious ceremonies in Polynesia as well as for social gatherings. It is especially indicated for nervous anxiety, overtiredness, stress, and restlessness, as well as for irritable bladder. Kava has a multitude of medicinal uses including bladder infections, insomnia, pain, anorexia, mild depression, fatigue, toothache, and nocturnal incontinence in the young and aged.
Kava Kava has a taste of ACRID and a temperature of WARM.
Cautions
Avoid large doses. Contraindicated during pregnancy.
