How to Take Kava Kava for Health
Kava kava (Piper methysticum) is a tall shrub that grows on western Pacific Islands and has been cultivated since ancient times. It is believed to have originated from Melanesia and the dried roots are used medicinally. The following steps will help you decide whether or not to take this herbal supplement.
1
Read up on the historical uses of kava kava. It has been used for thousands years as a ceremonial drink and for its sedative effect.
2
Look at the results from modern scientific testing of kava kava. Its sedative effect is well-established and it had long been considered relatively safe and non-addictive. However, concerns were raised about its toxicity because of some liver-related deaths of kava users in 2001.
3
Consider that kava kava has been banned in France, the Netherlands and Switzerland. The Center for Disease Control and the Food and Drug Administration both expressed reservations about its use in 2002.
4
Study the side effects of kava kava. If you appear to be suffering from liver damage, you should seek immediate medical attention. Kava should not be taken recreationally or if you are taking medication that affects the liver.
5
Take no more than the recommended dosage. Kava supplements should be standardized to 30 to 70 percent kavalactones. Capsules contain 150 to 300 mg and may be taken one to three times per day as needed for anxiety. Kava kava should not be taken continuously for more than three months.
http://www.ehow.com/how_2068083_take-kava-kava-health.html
Kava kava (Piper methysticum) is a tall shrub that grows on western Pacific Islands and has been cultivated since ancient times. It is believed to have originated from Melanesia and the dried roots are used medicinally. The following steps will help you decide whether or not to take this herbal supplement.
1
Read up on the historical uses of kava kava. It has been used for thousands years as a ceremonial drink and for its sedative effect.
2
Look at the results from modern scientific testing of kava kava. Its sedative effect is well-established and it had long been considered relatively safe and non-addictive. However, concerns were raised about its toxicity because of some liver-related deaths of kava users in 2001.
3
Consider that kava kava has been banned in France, the Netherlands and Switzerland. The Center for Disease Control and the Food and Drug Administration both expressed reservations about its use in 2002.
4
Study the side effects of kava kava. If you appear to be suffering from liver damage, you should seek immediate medical attention. Kava should not be taken recreationally or if you are taking medication that affects the liver.
5
Take no more than the recommended dosage. Kava supplements should be standardized to 30 to 70 percent kavalactones. Capsules contain 150 to 300 mg and may be taken one to three times per day as needed for anxiety. Kava kava should not be taken continuously for more than three months.
http://www.ehow.com/how_2068083_take-kava-kava-health.html
