Ava (Kava Kava Root)
Kava Kava (Kava Kava Root)
Piper methysticum
Pacific root for deep calm, muscle relaxation and social ease.
Kava kava shrub · Shrub · Parts: Root, Rhizome
- Taste (rasa)
- Bitter, Astringent
- Energy (virya)
- Cooling
- Balances
- Vata, Pitta
What it is used for
Benefits
- Reduces acute anxiety and tension without fogging the mind
- Relaxes tight muscles and jaw tension
- Traditionally used in social and ceremonial settings
How it has been used
Traditional uses & benefits
Kava is a Pacific island root used as a social relaxant and muscle relaxer — cooling, bitter and notably calming.
Traditional uses
- Acute anxiety and situational stress
- Muscle tension and jaw clenching
- Social anxiety and difficulty unwinding
Practical guidance
- 1Use only occasionally, not as a daily sedative.
- 2Never combine with alcohol or liver-stressing medication.
- 3Check local legality; some countries restrict or ban kava.
How much
Dosage
60-250 mg kavalactones daily in divided doses, or as a traditional cold-water preparation.
How to take it
Preparation & usage
Kava drink
Knead kava root powder in cold water, strain through a cloth and sip slowly.
Evening, occasional use
Capsule extract
Take a standardized extract with a small amount of fat-containing food.
Evening, as needed
Read this first
Precautions
- Avoid with alcohol and liver disease
- Not for use in pregnancy or breastfeeding
- Check legality in your country
Where this comes from
Sources
Where to buy
Shop this remedy
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