Kava Root Extract
Also known as: Piper methysticum, kava kava, kavalactones, awa, noble kava
An extract of the root of a Pacific Island pepper plant, traditionally prepared as a ceremonial drink and now used in relaxation and stress formulas. A Cochrane review and a six-week randomized trial in generalized anxiety both support an anxiolytic effect, with the trial using 120 to 240 mg of kavalactones per day from a water extract. Kava is dosed by kavalactone content, and rare reports of liver injury, sometimes linked to non-root plant parts or solvent extracts, have led to restrictions in several countries.
Research summary
Kavalactones such as kavain modulate GABA-A receptors, block voltage-gated sodium and calcium channels, and inhibit monoamine reuptake, producing relaxation without strong sedation.
Dosage
Daily amounts, of extract.
| Lowest studied | Typical range | Highest studied | Upper limit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 120 mg | 120–240 mg | 240 mg | — |
Doses are expressed as kavalactones: 120 to 240 mg per day, which corresponds to 400 to 800 mg of a 30% kavalactone extract, usually split or taken in the evening. Liver caution: use noble-cultivar root-only water extracts, keep to short-term or intermittent use, avoid combining with alcohol or other liver-stressing ingredients, and include a liver-safety advisory on the label. Not for continuous long-term use.
Standardization: 30% kavalactones (doses expressed as kavalactones)
Source material: root water extract, noble cultivars
As supplied: Approximately 30% kavalactones; 400 mg extract ≈ 120 mg kavalactones
Format suitability
- Capsule
- Powder
- Tablet
- Softgel
- Gummy
- Liquid
Numbing, earthy, bitter taste; capsules preferred. Traditional powders are used in drinks.
Formulation notes
Inhibits several CYP enzymes and adds to sedation from alcohol, benzodiazepines, and other calming ingredients. Banned or restricted in some countries and previously subject to an FDA consumer advisory on liver effects; verify sale is permitted in each target market.
- Notable drug interactions
- Restricted in some countries
- Not for pregnancy
Sources
Related ingredients
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