Kava
Pacific herb (Piper methysticum) with GABAergic anxiolytic kavalactones.
Pharmacology
Contents
WHAT IS KAVA?
Detailed overview
Kava is a Pacific Island herb (Piper methysticum) whose root extract has been used ceremonially and as a calming drink for centuries. Its active constituents are the kavalactones (kavain, dihydrokavain, methysticin, yangonin and relatives), which produce calming, anxiolytic and muscle-relaxant effects mainly through positive modulation of the GABA-A receptor. Several randomized, placebo-controlled trials, notably with the standardized WS 1490 extract, showed reductions in anxiety, while other trials in generalized anxiety disorder found no significant advantage over placebo, so the evidence picture is mixed. Its notable risk is rare but severe liver injury, so a quality aqueous root extract and monitoring of liver status are key.
Mechanism
GABA-A positive modulation (kavalactones)
Half-life
Kavalactones ~9 hours, varies by compound
Legal status
Herb; restricted in some countries
Receptor profile
- GABA-A receptorsModerate
- Voltage-gated sodium channelsModerate
- Voltage-gated calcium channelsWeak
- Monoamine oxidase B (reversible inhibition)Weak
- Glutamate releaseWeak
Safety
Side effects, stop signs, contraindications
Side effects · 5
- Mouth numbing, local anesthesia of the tongue and mouth (local anesthetic action of kavalactones)
- Drowsiness, sedation, reduced reaction time and coordination at higher doses
- Rare but severe liver injury, mainly with poor-quality or solvent-based extracts
- Kava dermopathy: reversible scaly, dry skin with prolonged heavy use
- Digestive upset, nausea, reduced appetite
Contraindications · 5
- Pre-existing liver disease or elevated liver enzymes: kava can be hepatotoxic, avoid
- With alcohol: increased sedation and greater hepatic load, do not combine
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding: safety not established, avoid
- Benzodiazepines, sedatives or other CNS depressants: additive sedation
- Driving or operating machinery under its effect: avoid due to slowed reaction time
Related Nootropics
Same therapeutic category
Studies
Related research and clinical findings
Treatment of anxiety, tension and restlessness states with Kava special extract WS 1490 in general practice: a randomized placebo-controlled double-blind multicenter trial
Gastpar M, Klimm HD
The acute effects of kava and oxazepam on anxiety, mood, neurocognition; and genetic correlates: a randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind study
Sarris J, LaPorte E, Scholey A, King R, Pipingas A, Schweitzer I, Stough C
An internet-based randomized, placebo-controlled trial of kava and valerian for anxiety and insomnia
Jacobs BP, Bent S, Tice JA, Blackwell T, Cummings SR
Kava in generalized anxiety disorder: three placebo-controlled trials
Connor KM, Payne V, Davidson JR
Kava extract for treating anxiety
Pittler MH, Ernst E
FAQ
FAQ
Pacific herb (Piper methysticum) with GABAergic anxiolytic kavalactones.
Telegram
Have a question about Kava?
Reach out to us on Telegram for a personalized stack. We'll be happy to help.
Personalized consultation
Want a detailed conversation tailored to your data?
Fill out the prep intake form (your goals, training and health data), and the advisor prepares from it to give genuinely personalized guidance.
Fill out the form~5–7 min · prep questionnaire · confidential · GDPR-compliant
Structure & chemistry
The information here is strictly for educational and scientific purposes. It does not replace medical advice or clinical consultation, and it does not encourage illegal substance or pharmaceutical use. Data is sourced. When in doubt, consult your doctor.