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What is Kava? A Deep Dive into Its Uses, Benefits, Precautions
, by AussiePharmaDirect, 6 min reading time
, by AussiePharmaDirect, 6 min reading time
In this modern age of buzzing notifications and late-night streaming binges, achieving a good night's rest can sometimes feel like trying to find a unicorn in a forest of espresso beans. When sheep counting fails, our ancestors had a knack for turning to Mother Nature for help to catch those elusive Z’s. Chamomile tea, valerian root, and lemon balm, you name it. Among the stars of the list of natural sleep remedies is the intriguing kava kava.
Kava, scientifically known as Piper methysticum, is a native plant to the Pacific Islands. The kava roots are ground into a calming concoction that is believed to ease anxiety and encourage restful sleep. While it may not have been a one-size-fits-all solution for everyone, kava kava certainly earned its place in the lineup of sleep aids.
Kava was once consumed as a ceremonial beverage – a tradition as old as the tides themselves. The underground parts of the kava plant, specifically the lateral roots and rhizomes, are what people traditionally use to create the drink that has been cherished for its potential relaxation and calming effects.
As times evolved, so did our methods of embracing the benefits of kava. Kava consumption has taken on various new forms, such as kava capsules or tablets, adapting to the demands of our fast-paced lives and diverse preferences.
At the heart of kava's charm are its active compounds, the kavalactones, which hold the key to its potential benefits including:
While its traditional use has been centred around relaxation, research has cast a spotlight on kava's potential anti-cancer effects. The kavalactones in kava have demonstrated the ability to modulate certain cellular pathways and processes that are linked to cancer progression.
While kava has been traditionally consumed for its potential relaxation and calming effects, there are certain contraindications and considerations that you should be aware of before consuming kava products.
Here are some potential contraindications and considerations:
Determining a one-size-fits-all dosage from historical practices is complex due to varying factors, including the form of kava used, preparation methods, and individual sensitivities. Reported dosages of kavalactones from traditional kava use show significant variation, spanning from 750 to 8,000 mg per day.
Most capsule formulations contain doses ranging from 50 to 100 mg of kavalactones. Moreover, the general consensus among experts suggests a maximum daily dose of around 250 mg of kavalactones when consuming kava supplements. Within the Australian landscape of sleep supplements, a range of brands have embraced the use of kava in their sleep formulations such as Blackmores, Swisse, and Herbs of Gold.
Distinguished among natural sleep supplements, SLEEP by Ritua stands out for its thoughtfully crafted blend of kava and complementary sleep-supporting ingredients such as reishi mushroom.
Embarking on a journey with kava, the ancient botanical known for its potential relaxation benefits, requires a thoughtful approach to ensure a safe and beneficial experience. It's recommended to seek guidance from a healthcare professional before incorporating kava into your wellness routine. This is especially crucial if you have pre-existing health conditions, are currently taking medications, or if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Consulting a healthcare provider can provide personalised insights into how kava might interact with your unique health profile.