The numbing of the tongue and throat is immediately noticeable when first taking Kava. I find the relaxation and anti-anxiety effects are obvious within minutes. Studies have shown that the higher your level of anxiety, the better Kava works at settling your nerves.

Kava has been used as a ceremonial drink in the Pacific Islands for thousands of years. When taken, it brings relaxation, sociability and a mild euphoria followed by a relaxing sleep. Partakers wake refreshed and hangover free. Until a couple of years ago, Kava was prohibited in West Australia, but that prohibition has now been lifted.

Kava is an important anxiolytic. It offers just as much anti-anxiety action as more standard anti-anxiety pharmaceuticals yet doesn’t result in the bad moods that accompany these medications.

Kava connects the mind with the heart, binging a deeper sense of love and security. If taken just before retiring it will help lull you off into a deep and relaxing sleep.

In the early 2000’s liver disease and a few deaths were attributed to Kava consumption. A herb that had been used for over 3000 years was suddenly not safe. However in 2008 WHO declared Kava safe for use. It was determined the alcohol based extracts, the use of leaves and branches instead of just the roots, and possibly the varieties of Kava were the cause of the adverse affects. Piper Methysticum (which translates to intoxicating pepper) prepared traditionally or in a water based extract is completely safe and too important as an anxiolytic and sleep aid to not use.

Kava not recommended for pregnancy and breastfeeding, or for long term use. Overuse can result in stupour and a scaly rash. Traditionally it was used ceremonially, not as an everyday thing. However one group of study participants took Kava for 6 months without adverse effects.

I’m open for online herbal medicine consults, and herbs can be posted out or picked up in South Fremantle.