Kava kava, also known as Kawa kawa or Kava, is a medicinal plant widely used in traditional medicine to treat cases of anxiety, restlessness or tension, its scientific name is Piper methysticum and can be found in natural products, online and even in supermarkets.
This plant has very important active substances that are known as kavalactones, according to some studies, apparently acting very similarly to some anxiolytic drugs, regulating the action of GABA neurotransmitters in the brain.
- In this way.
- Kava kava can be an excellent natural treatment option for anxiety and restlessness.
- Before opting for the use of medications.
- However.
- For it to be used properly and in safe doses.
- Its use should be guided by a naturopath.
- Herbalist.
- Nutritionist or other health professional specialized in the use of medicinal plants.
There is also no information on the exact mechanism of action of this plant, however, several Indian studies indicate that kava kavaactones had a very similar function to that of benzodiazepines, which is the main group of drugs used in the treatment of anxiety.
This means that the plant can bind to the brain receptors of the GABA neurotransmitter, thus improving its action. Because GABA is primarily responsible for inhibiting the central nervous system, allowing the person to relax, feel less afraid and less anxious, this plant has a powerful calming effect.
Also, some Indian studies that can be used in seizures, due to their kavalactones, kavaana, have an antagonistic action in the sodium channels, which generates stabilization of the electrical action of the neuron.
The parts used by Kava are found in its rhizomes, where the highest concentration of active substances is found. There are several ways to use this plant:
Ideally, consult a herbalist or health care professional who specializes in medicinal plants, their use, dosage and duration of treatment may vary depending on each person’s medical history and history.
Recognize other natural options for managing anxiety
The main side effect of using kava kava is the onset of a serious liver injury. However, the only studies conducted on this effect have been conducted in people who also had other habits that could have affected liver function. In this way, even if there is no real effect of Kava on the liver, it is recommended to overlap the doses of 120 mg per day.
Kava kava is contraa indicated in pregnant women and lactating mothers, since there are no studies on its safety during these phases of life, I should also avoid people who suffer from liver disease and who are treated with antihypertensives, at least without indication of a health professional.