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Kava kava

Kava plants, a type of pepper plant also known as Piper methysticum, are generally found in Polynesia, Melanesia, and Micronesia. The kava plant contains high concentrations of kavalactones (kavapyrones), including kavain, methysticin, yangonin, dihydromethysticin, desmethoxyyangonin, and dihydrokavain, and has been used as an herbal medicine. Kava kava is a member of the pepper family and contains compounds called kavalactones that appear to improve well-being and relaxation without interfering with mental clarity and focus. Kava kava extract is used primarily to alleviate anxiety, depression and insomnia. In smaller doses it has a calming effect without slowing energy or thinking; in larger doses, it acts as a sedative without having any undesirable side effects. Kava kava extract also acts as a local anesthetic and relieves pain, and is also effective in reducing menstrual cramps. Several clinical studies have shown it to be parallel in its effect to xanax and valium without the undesirable side effects. It reduces inflammation , stress and discomfort associated with urinary tract infection and premenstrual syndrome. It is an herb described as leaving the consumer feeling relaxed, peaceful, content with a sharpening of the senses. A calmness overcomes the body and clarity in thought patterns replaces pain, stress and anxiety. Kava kava also can be used as phytotranquilizer to reduce nervousness and overexcitement. However, kava-kava's most popular application is as a natural anxiolytic and has compared favorably to a number prescription medications such as benzodiazepines. Kava-kava's pharmacological activity has been attributed to lactones present in the plant roots. The prized part of the kava plant is the root system because it contains the highest concentrations of the active kavalactones. Kavalactones are also found in other parts of the plant. The key constituents of kava kava are resins containing kava lactones, including kawain and piperdine alkaloids.

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