All about Kava herbKava herb is a shrub that belongs to the pepper family, and has been used forthousands of years by the people of the South Pacific for a variety of therapeutic purposes. It is also known as kava kava, but it is the kava root itself that contains the shrub's medicinal properties. Kava root harbors numerous compounds that can have a wide range of therapeutic effects. Most famously, kava kava is used to treat anxiety, stress, and nervousness. Indeed, in Europe, where most of the major research on kava root has been carried out, physicians often prescribe it for the aforementioned symptoms. Other possible benefits include: alleviating urinary infections, fatigue, rheumatism, insomnia, bodily pains (muscle aches and chronic pain) and increasing mental acuity. The active ingredients in the kava herb are called kavalactones and, as mentioned above, are present in the plant's root. Some evidence also points to the kava herb possibly benefiting those afflicted with epileptic attacks and seizures. Many people take it as an alternative to pharmaceutical drugs prescribed for depression or social anxiety. However, kava kava tends to take longer to have any beneficial effect -- with some studies showing it requires several weeks to notice any difference. There is no RDA (Recommended daily allowance) set for kava herb; however, adaily dosage of 250 mg to 750 mg is usually taken per day (divided throughout the day). Pregnant or nursing women, as always, should refrain from using any supplement, herbal or otherwise, unless consulting their physician first. Possible side effects of kava kava are: upset stomach, headache, nausea, dizziness and drowsiness. Other side effects have also been reported when the dosage taken is very high. Lower the dosage or discontinue use if you experience any side effects. Lastly, those who are on prescription medications for depression should always consult with their physician before taking kava kava. 1. Choose a kava kava supplement made from standardized extracts of at least 30% of the active ingredient, kavalactones. 2. Only purchase kava herb root supplements produced at pharmaceutical GMP compliant facilities. Such companies adhere to the most rigorous manufacturing requirements to ensure products do not harbor any contaminants, which is a serious problem consumers should not take lightly. Increased feeling of well-being, mental acuity, energy are just a few of the benefits we've experienced with a product called Total Balance manufactured by Xtend-Life Natural Products from New Zealand. |