Kava kava Root, Powder 

Also Known As – Piper methysticum

Wild Crafted  Kaui, Hawaii - This herb cannot be shipped internationally.

Overview - Native to the Pacific Islands, kava is a large rangy shrub with dark green leaves that are heart-shaped. There is some medicinal value to the leaves, but they are rarely used. It was first heard about in Europe in 1777 after Captain Cook's second voyage to the south Pacific. The Islanders used the herb in ceremonies, festivals and gave it to visitors as a sign of good will. It was considered an aphrodisiac and stimulant. The root has an aromatic bitter taste with a slight local anesthetic effect in the mouth.

Medicinal Uses – Internally, Kava is prescribed for Muscle Relaxation and used to calm anxiety, stress, and restlessness, and treat sleep problems (insomnia). It is also used for attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), epilepsy, psychosis, depression, migraines and other headaches, chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS), common cold and other respiratory tract infections, tuberculosis, muscle pain, and cancer prevention. It works well for these ailments as it relieves fatigue and gives you energy. It helps rheumatism. It acts as a disinfectant for urinary and reproductive infections. It has been used to treat obesity, colds, and fevers and to rid the body of parasites. Since it is a natural sedative, it is often used to treat insomnia and nervousness. 

Externally, Kava can be applied for headaches, leprosy and skin diseases including fungal infections like ringworm.

Herbs to Combine/Supplement - A recipe for a kava herbal tea is made with 6 tablespoons of root, 3 teaspoons of cinnamon, 3 teaspoons of cardamom, 1 teaspoon of nutmeg, a pinch of allspice, a gallon of water, 1 or 2 cups of milk, soymilk or rice milk and 4 tablespoons of honey. Boil all ingredients except the milk and honey in a non-aluminum pan. Simmer on low heat for an hour and then strain. Add milk and honey to desired taste.

Parts Used -The rhizome is used medicinally as a powder, tablets and capsules, tinctures, an extract or as a tonic beverage.

Precautions - If you are pregnant or nursing, do not use kava. Do not take this herb with alcohol or when you need to operate machinery or vehicles. While small doses do not appear to have any side effects, large doses may cause yellow discoloration of the skin, hair and nails, allergic skin reactions and vision disturbance. Excessive use may also cause eye irritation, tiredness, impairment of motor reflexes, equilibrium, rash, pupil dilation, sores and itching. There is some controversy on whether or not kava can cause liver disease.

• The fact that the Swiss, British and French have made moves to remove the herb from their respective markets should give further cause for concern. You should certainly seek the advice of a professional before embarking on a prolonged course of this herb.

Preparation and Dosage - Follow the directions on the label of commercial preparations. Do not overdose this herb. If you are taking this herb medicinally, it is best to use it under the guidance of an experienced professional.

Warning: CAUTION: US FDA advises that a potential risk of rare, but severe, liver injury may be associated with Kava. Consult a health care practitioner before use, and if taking any medications. Discontinue use if any adverse reactions occur. Not for use by persons under 18 years of age, with alcoholic beverages, or by pregnant or breastfeeding women. Excessive use, or use with products that cause drowsiness, may impair your ability to operate a vehicle or dangerous equipment.

Note: This item cannot be shipped to Canada or Louisiana.

Disclaimer -These products are not intended to diagnose, treat cure or prevent any disease. Reviews are not intended as a substitute for appropriate medical care or the advice of a physician or another medical professional. Actual results may vary among users. Mountain Maus Remedies LLC makes no warranty or representation, expressed or implied, as to the accuracy or validity of the information contributed by outside product review submissions, and assumes no responsibility or liability regarding the use of such information. The information and statements regarding the dietary supplements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. If you have a medical condition or disease, please talk to your health care provider. If you are currently taking a prescription medication, you should work with your health care provider before discontinuing any drug or altering any drug regimen, including augmenting your regimen with any herb or dietary supplements. Do not attempt to self-diagnose any disease or ailment based on the reviews and do not use the information contained herein for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease. Proper medical care is critical to good health. If you have a health concern or suspect you have an undiagnosed sign or symptom, please consult a physician or health care practitioner.