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Western Herbalism

Kava

Piper methysticum

Western, Pacific Islander traditional

Gabriel Score
74/ 100Good
EvidenceModerate - effective but hepatotoxicity concerns
Conditions5 applications
How it works

Modulates GABA receptors, blocks sodium channels, anxiolytic without sedation

Typical Dosage

70-250mg kavalactones daily

Used for
Anxietystressinsomniamuscle tensionrestlessness

The Science

Active Compounds

Kavalactones (kavain, dihydrokavain, methysticin)

Evidence Base

Moderate - effective but hepatotoxicity concerns74/100

Rare but serious, sometimes fatal liver injury reported, including with water extracts. Not with alcohol, acetaminophen or other liver-toxic drugs; stop if dark urine or yellow eyes.

How to Use

Tea, tincture, capsule

Dosing should be individualized. Consult a qualified herbalist or healthcare practitioner.

Safety Profile

Interactions

Potentiates CNS depressants, alcohol; may interact with dopamine antagonists

Contraindications

Liver disease; pregnancy; Parkinson's disease; alcohol use

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TraditionWestern Herbalism
EvidenceModerate - effective but hepatotoxicity concerns
Applications5
Gabriel Score74/100

Educational purposes only. Consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting any herbal protocol.

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