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Kava: The Natural Cure for Anxiety?
Kava has been around for a long time. It is found in thousands-of-years-old artifacts uncovered in the Pacific Islands. In the early 1600's, European explorers tasted it when offered by Polynesians they encountered in their travels. They found it had the same effect on them as a some of their alcoholic brew. It has the effects of a mood enhancer without being hallucinogenic. Taken in appropriate doses, it seems to be about as strong as a strong cup of coffee, but working in the opposite direction. It has hit the U.S. and European market since the 1980's. Used to reduce menstrual cramps, help people sleep, and ease muscle tension, it also has a profound affect on anxiety reduction. Research seems to support its palliative effect on anxiety. German psychiatrist Hans-Peter Volz conducted a series of tests on people diagnosed with mild anxiety. Half the group received kava three times a day, and half the group received placebos. After eight weeks, there were significant differences between the two groups. Perhaps most importantly, there were no negative side effects reported. Years later, this still seems to be the case. Kava has also been positively compared to Valium, especially for mild cases of anxiety. This is primarily because it does not cause the same side effects, especially addiction which can happen with Valium. There does seem to be some indication, however, that kava can become habit forming, this according to Ray Sahelian, author of Kava: The Miracle Antianxiety Herb. Furthermore, excessive use can mimic behavioral patterns of drunkenness, and it definitely can induce sleep. For these reasons, kava should not be taken while driving a car. Kava should also not be combined with antianxiety medication or alcohol. While we would never recommend any herb or drug in the Stress Management Corner, if you are going to experiment with kava, we caution you to take appropriate doses and don't take it for long-term use. Most doctors also recommend using it along with a complete program of physical health and anxiety reduction, including exercise. What is the appropriate dose? Based on the research conducted so far, an appropriate dose seems to be between 40 and 70 milligrams of kavalactones, three times a day. If you are buying snacks, or teas with kava, multiply the amount of kava by the percentage of kavalactones to calculate the right dose. Most people who recommend
this natural herb strongly advise that you use the herb when you hit a
"rough patch." Then stop using it. Let it play a temporary role in
your life so you do not become dependant on it.
Janelle M. Barlow,
Ph.D.
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