Kava & Anxiety Treatment

The kava plant is native to the numerous islands of Oceania and has been used there for various purposes for thousands of years. It thrives in damp, shady and humid locations with abundant rainfall.

Identification

• The kava plant is an evergreen shrub with light green heart-shaped leaves. It produces berries that contain a solitary seed. Male plants produce vertical flowers approximately 6 inches tall. The stems have an average 12 inches and are covered with nodes.

History

• Kava roots are traditionally chewed by children, mixed with water and drank out of a coconut shell. Kava circles are performed in Oceanic cultures during events with a beginning or ending such as births and deaths.

Function

• Kava root is used to treat Social Anxiety Disorder (SAD) by being ingested at the onset of symptoms to provide immediate effect.

Potential

• A study conducted in Germany reveals that kava is effective in treating short-term anxiety; further study will determine benefits of long-term use.

Features

• Kava produces effects similar to alcohol without impairing mental function, but rather by putting people into a relaxed, yet social, state.

Warning

• The kava rhizome is the only part of the plant fit for human consumption; the rest of the plant is poisonous and will damage the liver if ingested.