Kava

What is Kava?

Kava is a shrub that is native to the islands of the South Pacific, like Fiji, Tonga and the Hawaiian archipelago. It goes by many names in the native tongues of islanders, but the term “kava-kava” can be literally translated from the Tongan language as “bitter,” while its Latin name means “intoxicating pepper”⁵.

The broad-leafed plant thrives in the loose soil and humid conditions of these islands, where it has been cultivated for centuries for its medicinal and psychoactive properties. Natives generally dry and grind the root into a powder, then add it to clean water and consume it as a beverage called “grog.” A member of the Piperaceae family – which also includes more common food peppers like bell peppers and black pepper – the kava plant reproduces asexually, meaning it does not rely on pollinators³.

How does Kava work?

The root of the plant is its most sought-after part for medicinal use, as it is rich in kavalactones, which are known to modulate the brain’s GABA receptors to reduce symptoms of stress and induce a relaxed state conducive to sleep⁴. Research also indicates that kavalactones contain anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that can protect brain function and support healthy cell generation⁴.

What are the benefits of Kava?

The kavalactones in kava root create a soothing effect that can ease insomnia and facilitate good quality sleep. The anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties of the root can help relieve the muscle soreness and joint tenderness associated with arthritis and overuse¹. Perhaps the most important and popular benefit of ingesting kava root is its ability to quell anxiety. The kavalactones help reduce stress hormones in the bloodstream without creating addiction, making them highly effective in treating both social anxiety and menopausal symptoms, like mood swings and hot flashes².

While more research is needed to understand exactly how kava root works, its anti-inflammatory and stress-relieving properties have shown efficacy in treating headaches, achieving weight-loss goals, stopping smoking and neutralizing the free radicals that cause premature aging.

Products featuring Kava

ZenX™ for Natural Calming

Practice Self Care

Native Remedies recommends you consult your doctor before introducing new remedies into your regimen. Always ensure you are buying high-quality, laboratory-tested supplements from a reputable supplier. At Native Remedies, we back all our products with a 100 percent money-back guarantee. If you’re not happy with your purchase after trying it for 30 days, simply send it back for a refund. Here’s to your good health!

The content provided is for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice. If you have a health condition, please consult a medical professional and do not use this information to self-diagnose or self-treat.

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Reviewed by Master Herbalist, Mary Ellen Kosanke