Kava Root

Piper methysticum (traditional prep)

Family: Piperaceae Evidence: A teapowder

Traditional Pacific Island preparation — root pounded and soaked in water (NOT alcohol extract). The traditional water preparation has 3000+ years of safe use in Fiji, Vanuatu, Tonga, and Samoa. Noble cultivars only. Hepatotoxicity linked to non-noble/non-root parts.

Safety Profile

PregnancyUnsafe
BreastfeedingUnsafe
PediatricNot Recommended

Contraindications

Liver disease. Depression. Driving/machinery. Pregnancy.

Interactions

NEVER with alcohol. Benzodiazepines, hepatotoxic drugs, levodopa.

Side Effects

Numbness of mouth, relaxation, kanikani (dermopathy with chronic heavy use).

Liver: Traditional water prep much safer than alcohol extracts. Use noble cultivars only.
This information is for educational purposes only. It is not medical advice. Consult a qualified healthcare provider before using any herbal product.