Kava Kava As a Sleep Remedy

Whether you have chronic insomnia or only occasional problems with falling asleep and staying asleep, kava kava is a natural way to relax and wake up feeling refreshed. It’s safe and not habit forming when taken according to directions.

About Kava Kava

• Kava kava has been widely cultivated throughout the Pacific Islands for hundreds of years and has been used in Europe since about the 1700s. It's a member of the pepper family and can grow up to 14 feet in height at maturity. It has traditionally been used to produce tranquility and a sense of well-being. In more recent times it's been used successfully for everything from premenstrual syndrome to insomnia.

Kava for Insomnia

• Not being able to sleep well can result in poor thinking, mood changes, weight loss or weight gain, irritability and anxiety. Some people have trouble falling asleep, and may lay in bed awake for an hour or more before finally drifting off. Others may fall asleep quickly, but have trouble staying asleep. Still others may find that their sleep is light or fitful. One way to treat insomnia naturally is with herbs, and kava kava is especially beneficial.

Kavalactones

• The active ingredient in kava kava is kavalactones, which cause a sedative effect, much like alcohol. The effects of the kavalactones are mild sedation, vivid dreams and a slight numbing of the mouth and gums. Some evidence suggests it may be as effective as benzodiazepine drugs such as diazepam.

Other Uses

• Kava Kava has also been used to help relax without feeling drowsy, enhance a sense of peace and satisfaction, increase mental alertness, relax muscles, promote feelings of well-being and aid in confidence by helping the user to feel more relaxed and able to express herself in a positive manner.

Typical Dosage

• As a sleep aid, the typical kava dosage is 250mg before bedtime. If your insomnia is due to anxiety, 250mg can be taken one to three times a day.

Kava Warnings

• Although considered safe when taken as directed, kava does have a potential for addiction since it produces mild euphoria and relaxation. Elevated liver enzymes have been found in people who take higher doses of kava, so it’s best to cycle its use by taking it for one to three months, then switching to another relaxing herb such as catnip, skullcap or valerian.
  Don’t use kava with other medications such as tranquilizers or sleeping pills, and do not take with alcohol. Don’t operate a vehicle or heavy machinery while taking kava, since the sedating effect can impair motor function. Immediately discontinue use and contact your physician if you experience an allergic reaction or side effects due to kava.