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Kava
Kava root
(Piper
methysticum)
Other
names:
include 'awa (Hawai'i),
'ava (Samoa), yaqona (Fiji), and sakau (Pohnpei).
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Medicinally
Kava is a tranquilizer primarily consumed to relax
without disrupting mental clarity. Its active
ingredients are called kavalactones. In some parts
of the Western World, kava extract is marketed as
herbal medicine against stress, insomnia, and
anxiety. Kava is chewed by some to relieve
symptoms of throat pain, as Kava produces a
"numbing" effect on the tongue and
throat. The Kava is first chewed in the back of
the mouth for 5 to 10 minutes while swallowing the
saliva and kavalactones released from the process.
The Kava produces an effect similar to that of a
Chloraseptic spray. Kava relaxes muscles, calms
nerves, creates a general feeling of well-being,
induces a feeling of peace, relaxation and
contentment, enhances mental alertness and
concentration, has historical use as an herbal
aphrodisiac, reduces inhibitions and makes people
more sociable.
Kava
has no side effects when taken in moderate doses,
although its abuse can lead to health problems. A
study of heavy abusers in the South Pacific showed
evidence of shortness of breath, dry scaly skin,
and slight alterations in red and white blood
cells and platelets. The reports of liver
damage have widely been dismissed – it was one
irresponsible kava manufacturer which used the
poisonous tops of the kava plant in one of their
products that lead to the liver damage. Even the
country that hosted the study (Germany) has
repealed their ban on Kava Kava because it has
been proven a safe and effective herbal product.
Kava has not been shown to be physically
addictive. It has been used safely for over 3,000
years, without any reported withdrawal symptoms
whatsoever.
History
Kava
is used for medicinal, religious, political,
cultural and social purposes throughout the
Pacific. These cultures have a great respect for
the plant and place a high importance on it.
Correspondingly, the paraphernalia surrounding the
traditional kava ceremony are expertly crafted.
Traditionally designed kava bowls are bowls made
from a single piece of wood, with multiple legs.
More modern examples are also highly decorated,
often carved and inlayed with mother of pearl and
shell.
Kava
is used primarily at social gatherings to increase
amiability and to relax after work. It has great
religious significance, being used to obtain
inspiration. Among some fundamentalist Christian
sects in the Western Pacific, the drink has been
demonized and seen as a vice, and young members of
these religions often reject its traditional use.
However, among many mainline Christian
denominations, i.e. the Roman Catholic, Methodist,
and Anglican churches, kava drinking is encouraged
where it replaces alcohol.
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Kava
Kava root CCF
(Piper
methysticum)
Origin-
Vanuatu 
kava
induces deep muscle relaxation, modulates
emotions and promotes sleep, as
effectively as synthetic tranquilizers,
but without causing side effects. |
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For
educational purposes only This information
has not been evaluated by the Food and
Drug Administration.
This information is not intended to
diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any
disease. |
