Respiratory: Upper respiratory tract infection, common cold, asthma

Genitourinary: UTI, menstrual cramps; might increase libido, menopause (including hot flashes), PMS

Musculoskeletal: Muscle pain, joint pain, muscle relaxer

 

Neurologic: Might help with epilepsy/anticonvulsant, migraines, headaches, chronic fatigue

Skin: Enhances wound healing, topical anesthetic

Mental Health: Anxiety, stress, insomnia, restlessness, ADHD, psychosis, depression, mild euphoria

Cancer: Possibly used for cancer prevention

Infectious Disease: Venereal disease, tuberculosis

Other: Kava may help withdrawal from benzodiazepines (Xanax, Ativan), and alcohol withdrawal (but if you are drinking, it very occasionally makes the effects of alcohol worse)

                                                   *   *   *

SIDE EFFECTS: Dizziness, drowsiness, apathy (high doses), weight loss (long-term use), stomach problems, rhabdomyolysis, tremors, increased heart rate, tremors, urinary retention, blood in urine, vision disturbance, skin changes, liver disease, extrapyramidal symptoms, EKG changes (many of the serious problems occur with long-term and/or high-dose use), Parkinsonism

CAUTION/CONTRAINDICATIONS: Avoid alcohol, don’t take it when operating machinery, have liver disease, Parkinson’s, or before surgery 

FORMS: Drink mix, capsules, paste, tincture, gum, root, extract

Recommended Brands

• No recommendations available at this time

Dosage

As directed on the product label.

Some clinical and consumer sources describe a wide range of herbal amounts, and many are not supported by strong evidence. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions.

Traditional herbal practices describe the use of this herb in capsule, extract, tea, or powder form. Modern commercial products vary widely in strength and formulation, so traditional amounts may not apply to current products. Many people use this herb for stress support, sleep, mood balance, or general wellness, but evidence varies and product strengths differ significantly.

Some consumer health sites describe various regimens used in research studies for concerns such as anxiety, sleep, menopause, and stress. These reflect study protocols rather than standardized clinical recommendations.

For detailed drug dosing and interaction information, refer to herbal dosing on the Epocrates website.

Traditional Use (General Information Only)

This herb has been used traditionally for calming support, sleep, mood balance, and general wellness. Traditional practices describe the use of teas, tinctures, powders, and later standardized extracts. These uses are based on historical and consumer experience rather than strong clinical evidence.

These reflect traditional and consumer uses, not evidence‑based medical treatments. Product formulations vary, so it is important to follow the manufacturer’s directions.

*Disclaimer: The material above is for informational purposes only. This information is not intended to diagnose or treat a condition. The uses listed above are tentative; some have or are undergoing research trials, but many are not FDA-approved. It is essential that you investigate these supplements further before deciding to use them. Check interactions and contraindications on sites like Drugs.com, German Commission e or WebMD. Do not attempt to treat a serious condition like liver, kidney problems, high blood pressure, heart, cancer, diabetes, or thyroid issues without discussing it with a healthcare provider first. If you are pregnant, do not use supplements without discussing it with your healthcare provider.