Kava Kava
Kava Kava
Piper methysticum
AKA: Kava pepper
Portrait: Evergreen shrub. Indigenous to the Pacific Islands, including Hawaii. Cultivated in Australia and the US. Leaves are very large and heart-shaped, some growing to 10 in (25 cm) across. Roots are harvested as needed throughout the year.
Medicinal Element: Roots
Herbal Properties: Analgesic, antiseptic, diuretic, hypnotic, sedative, tonic
Summary: Used for centuries by the native peoples of several South Pacific islands, kava kava traditionally functions as an anesthetic, stimulant, and tonic. A potent antiseptic, it is considered a valuable herb for treating cystitis (bladder inflammation) and sexually transmitted diseases affecting the urinary tract, most specifically gonorrhea. Recommended for alleviating chronic pain, kava kava delivers a sensation of relaxation without affecting cognition and clarity – some claim it enhances mental performance. It reduces the perception of pain, relaxes muscles that are tensed in response to pain, and is considered a good remedy for anxiety and chronic stress. A decoction or infusion of the roots can be used as an analgesic mouthwash for toothache and canker sores. Large doses of kava kava may adversely affect the liver and should therefore be avoided. Do not use this herb for longer than 4 weeks at a time. Avoid kava kava if pregnant or nursing.
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Filed under: herbs | 2 Comments
Kava really works for my sleepless nights. I buy it in tincture form and put drops under my tongue. This works very quickly and puts me in sleep mode. It does not taste that great, but it is one powerful herb. Great information!
Hi Sambaman and thank you for the kind words!
I used to buy the herb raw & make a nasty tasting, tongue-numbing shake that destroyed my taste buds (but really made me feel excellent!). The peppery sensation can be somewhat overwhelming, but I bet the tincture remedies that, huh?
Thanks again for visiting!