Contraindications for Kava

Kava (also known as kava-kava) is a shrub native to the West Pacific islands. Indigenous peoples have used kava root to produce a ceremonial drink since ancient times, reports Drugs.com. The beverage causes a numbing sensation in the mouth, reduces anxiety, and relaxes the muscles, inducing sleep.



Although the plant has been used in alternative medicine to treat asthma, depression and stroke, kava supplements are strongly contraindicated for some patients. As of September 2010, the Food and Drug Administration has not approved the medical use of the plant. Furthermore, WebMD reports that Germany, Switzerland and Canada have banned kava products because of the risk of liver injury.

Parkinson's Disease

• Kava can interact negatively with the medication levodopa (L-DOPA), and may cause a semi-conscious state if taken with alprazolam, according to MedlinePlus.

  Kava can also interfere with the neurotransmitter dopamine. This may worsen Parkinson's disease symptoms, which include muscle stiffness and shaking, and are related to reduced dopamine activity in the brain.

Kidney and Liver Disease

• In 2008, the University of Sydney investigated the effects of kavain---a substance found in kava---on liver tissues, reports Science Daily. The study concluded that kavain narrows the blood vessels in liver tissue, which may be harmful to people who already suffer from hepatic problems like hepatitis and cirrhosis.

  MedlinePlus says that chronic use of kava may also cause kidney damage, but as of September 2010, there is not enough scientific evidence to prove this conclusively. Nevertheless, kidney disease patients should not take kava, because it is not currently known to be safe.

Pregnancy and Lactation

• Kava is contraindicated during pregnancy, because it decreases the muscle strength of the uterus, and may induce abortion. In addition, chemical compounds in kava can pass to breast milk. Due to the lack of scientific information on the effects of kava on babies, mothers should avoid the herb completely during pregnancy and nursing, according to MedlinePlus.