Herbal Remedies ~ Kava

Kava Piper methysticum
(Black Pepper Family)

This South Pacific herb is an analgesic, sedative, and mild euphoriant. It also has antiseptic properties that may be useful in treating urinary tract infection and cystitis.

Kava lactones have a depressant effect on the central nervous system and are antispasmodic. In addition, they have an anesthetic effect on the lining of the urinary tubules and the bladder.

Kava is also useful in treating headaches, anxiety, depression, insomnia and low sex drive.

Kava may be taken long term to help relieve chronic stress, and its combination of anxiety- relieving and muscle-relaxant properties makes it valuable for treating muscle tension as well as emotional stress.

This herb's analgesic and cleansing diuretic effects make it beneficial for treating rheumatic and arthritic problems such as gout. It helps to bring relief from pain and to remove waste products from the affected joint.

It is available in tinctures and tablets. It should be taken in a form standardized to contain 70% kava lactones.

CAUTIONS: Should not be combined with alcohol or pharmaceutical tranquilizers or antidepressants. Long term usage has been associated with liver and skin damage.

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