Originating from the South Pacific Islands hundreds of years ago, Kava Kava is now an active herbal ingredient. It is a part of an evergreen shrub that is in the pepper family of plants.
As a tradition, the pacific islanders used the root of Kava Kava to make mildly sedative beverages during cultural ceremonies. While the scientific name of the plant is Piper Methysticum, Kava basically means “bitter” in the language of Tongan. It was once consumed in the way Alcohol is today. This is due to the fact that Kava is known to enhance one’s euphoria and serotonin levels. Keep reading as we talk more about Kava and its use in today’s world.
What is Kava?
Having already given a brief history about Kava Kava, it is now used as an active herbal ingredient. However, alongside its benefits Kava Kava is known to hold a few side effects that can worsen if consumed in increased dosages. Therefore, it’s important to ensure the consumption level is as needed only. As per some, the purposes of Kava Kava remain to be a controversial topic.
Understanding the forms of Kava Kava
This specific herb can be taken in as tea, other liquid forms, capsule or powder forms. However, it is important to keep in mind the dosages required. You can also find Fiji grown Kava to make use of in your method of consuming it. Avoid chewing on Kava Kava directly as it may cause a temporary numbing sensation on your tongue.
Kava Tea – tea is the most common form of consumption method when it comes to Kava Kava. This is due to the fact that Kava tea is usually readily available. It is however advised to avoid blended packets as the dosage of Kava could be lost in it.
Kava Liquid – the tinctures or liquid forms are sold and available in bottles that are often small. Just like with tea, it’s important to understand the dosage taken. Kava Liquid can be added into any other liquid content in order to cover up the strong bitter taste.
Kava Capsule – while these are also readily available, the Kava capsules are mostly preferred by those who choose to avoid tasting Kava Kava.
The benefits of Kava Kava
The important part of Kava comes from the root of the Kava Plant. The root is called Kavalactone. As per the research and studies conduc, this specific ingredient is known to have a great deal of benefits when it comes to promoting sleep, relieving anxiety and stress and we’ll as reducing convulsions and epilepsy. Kava Kava can also ease the symptoms of menopause and premenstrual syndrome.
When it comes to safety and dosage, it is advised to check with your doctor before consuming everyday doses of Kava Kava. If consumed, it’s always well advised to consume Kava Kava in small doses and never more than 3 months longer. Alongside its benefits, too much of Kava can result in side effects such as headaches, dizziness, skin problems, fatigue, etc.