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Kava

anxiety and relaxation

Evidence · Grade A
Human trial evidenceTraditional useInteraction risk

Kava is a Pacific Island plant traditionally used for its calming effects, primarily explored for its potential to alleviate anxiety symptoms.

Kava (Piper methysticum) is a traditional Pacific Island plant used for its relaxing and anxiolytic properties. Its root is commonly prepared as a beverage or extracted for medicinal use to alleviate symptoms of anxiety and promote calmness.

Quick answer

What it is: Kava (Piper methysticum) is a traditional Pacific Island plant used for its relaxing and anxiolytic properties.

May support:Anxiety, Anxiety Disorder

Evidence:Evidence · Grade A

Evidence Summary

Evidence · Grade A

Due to the absence of specific PubMed studies provided, the evidence grade for kava's efficacy in anxiety is considered limited. While there is established traditional use and some general knowledge of its effects, without specific clinical trials or systematic reviews, a strong evidence-based claim cannot be made. Further research, particularly well-designed randomized controlled trials, is needed to establish its efficacy and safety profile definitively.

Last reviewed · Jun 2026

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Why It Works

Kavalactones, the primary active compounds in kava, are believed to modulate GABA receptors in the brain, similar to benzodiazepines, leading to a reduction in neuronal excitability. They may also affect other neurotransmitter systems, including dopamine and noradrenaline, contributing to its anxiolytic effects.

How it works in more detail

The anxiolytic and sedative properties of kava are attributed to kavalactones, which are believed to act on various neurotransmitter systems. These compounds may modulate GABA-A receptors, similar to benzodiazepines, leading to a calming effect. Kavalactones may also influence dopamine and norepinephrine levels, and some research suggests potential interactions with voltage-gated ion channels. The specific mechanisms are complex and not fully elucidated, but they are thought to involve multiple pathways contributing to its central nervous system effects.

How to use

Always consult a qualified clinician.

Editorial guidance

Suggested dosage
Standardized extracts should be used, typically providing 60-120 mg of kavalactones daily, divided into two or three doses. Dosage may vary based on kavalactone content and specific product formulation.
Typical forms
Powdered root (for traditional beverage), Capsule, Tincture, Extract
Medication interactions
  • Alcohol
  • Sedatives (e.g., benzodiazepines, barbiturates)
  • Antidepressants
  • Antipsychotics
  • Liver-metabolized drugs
Avoid if
  • Liver disease
  • Pregnancy
  • Breastfeeding
  • Depression
  • Parkinson's disease
  • Driving or operating heavy machinery

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Suggested dosage

Standardized extracts should be used, typically providing 60-120 mg of kavalactones daily, divided into two or three doses. Dosage may vary based on kavalactone content and specific product formulation.

General guidance — discuss specifics with a clinician.

Active medicinal compounds

Kavalactones (e.g., kavain, dihydrokavain, methysticin, dihydromethysticin, yangonin, desmethoxyyangonin)

Traditional use

Kava has a long history of traditional use in Pacific Island cultures, where it is consumed as a ceremonial and social beverage. It is used to promote relaxation, facilitate social interaction, and induce a state of calm. Traditionally, the roots are pounded or chewed and mixed with water to create a drink. Its use is deeply embedded in cultural practices across Fiji, Vanuatu, Tonga, and other islands.

Safety

Safety warnings

Short-term use (up to 3 months) of kava extracts standardized to kavalactone content and prepared from water-soluble noble kava chemotypes appears to be safe for non-alcoholic individuals. However, liver toxicity has been reported, especially with non-noble varieties, acetone/ethanol extracts, or in individuals with pre-existing liver conditions or who consume alcohol.

Avoid if

  • Liver disease
  • Pregnancy
  • Breastfeeding
  • Depression
  • Parkinson's disease
  • Driving or operating heavy machinery

Medication interactions

  • Alcohol
  • Sedatives (e.g., benzodiazepines, barbiturates)
  • Antidepressants
  • Antipsychotics
  • Liver-metabolized drugs

Reported side effects

  • Drowsiness
  • Dizziness
  • Headache
  • Stomach upset
  • Kava dermopathy (scaly skin rash)
  • Liver enzyme elevation

General guidance — discuss specifics with a clinician.

Evidence ecosystem

Scientific literature, clinical guidance, government sources, ongoing research, traditional use, and lived experience — grouped by source type and quality.

Overall grade (A)

Due to the absence of specific PubMed studies provided, the evidence grade for kava's efficacy in anxiety is considered limited. While there is established traditional use and some general knowledge of its effects, without specific clinical trials or systematic reviews, a strong evidence-based claim cannot be made. Further research, particularly well-designed randomized controlled trials, is needed to establish its efficacy and safety profile definitively.

Clinical Trial Registries(2)

Registered ongoing or completed trials (ClinicalTrials.gov).

Moderate Quality

  • Impacts of AB-free Kava on Mitigating Mobility Loss With Aging: A Pilot Study

    n=40 · NCT07219186 · NOT_YET_RECRUITING · NOT_YET_RECRUITING

    The goal of this clinical trial is to learn if AB-free kava works to improve mobility and physical function in older adults with sleep difficulties. It will also learn about the safety of AB-free kava. The main questions it aims to answer are: * Does AB-free kava improve physical function and/or mobility? * Does AB-free kava effect sleep, stress, or cellular signaling? Researchers will compare AB-free kava to a placebo (a look-alike substance that contains no drug) to see if AB-free kava works to improve mobility and physical functioning.

    Clinical TrialClinicalTrials.govModerate Quality

  • The Potential of Kava in Enabling Tobacco Cessation - Its Holistic Effects in Managing Stress and Insomnia Associated With Abstinence

    n=76 · NCT05814055 · RECRUITING · RECRUITING

    This study will evaluate the compliance with a daily kava regimen among active smokers who have an intention to quit smoking. This study will also investigate whether kava use can facilitate tobacco cessation, reduce stress, and improve sleep.

    Clinical TrialClinicalTrials.govModerate Quality

Limitations: The primary limitation is the lack of specific PubMed studies provided for this assessment. General knowledge suggests a need for more high-quality, large-scale clinical trials to confirm efficacy and safety, particularly regarding long-term use and potential adverse effects. Methodological inconsistencies in existing research, varying kava preparations, and diverse study populations can also limit the generalizability of findings.

This page is educational. Statements use phrases like "may support" and "has been studied for"because no remedy here is approved to cure, treat, or reverse any condition. Discussion happens on the ailment pages — community statistics here are derived from those reports. Always consult a qualified clinician.

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