adaptogenEVIDENCEAUSOTC
Kava
aka Piper methysticum · Kava-kava
South Pacific root (Piper methysticum) used for anxiety and social relaxation. Hepatotoxic potential limits use.
Dose range100–300mg
Half-life9h
Onset—min
Safety2/5high evidence base
Mechanism of action
Kavalactones bind GABA-A and modulate dopamine. Strong anxiolytic without dependency.
Benefits
Anxiety
EVIDENCEACochrane 2003 meta-analysis.
Side effects
- Hepatotoxicity (rare but severe)raresevere
- Dermopathy (skin scaling) with chronic useuncommonmoderate
Where to buy
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