Is Kava Safe to Be Used by the Public

Abstract

The use of botanical products in the United States and European countries is extensive. While the original intention of the Dietary Supplements and Health Education Act of 1994 (DSHEA) by the US Congress was to use these products for the purpose of “supplementing” the diet, however many consumers use them for managing their disease states. Among the dietary supplements that have been popular among individuals who suffer from anxiety or insomnia is kava (Piper methysticum Frost F.) (The word “methysticum” is Greek for intoxicant, and “Piper” is for pepper. Taken together, kava is an “intoxicating pepper”) [1]. The herb is native to South Pacific region (Melanesia, Micronesia, Polynesia, and Hawaii) where it has been in use for centuries as a traditional beverage. The natives prepare kava drink by masticating the rhizomes which are further diluted with either coconut milk or water [2]. South Pacific islanders use the drink to connect to their gods and ancestors through religious and ceremonial gatherings, to alleviate fatigue, and as a relaxant [3]. The word kava when used by the natives refers to both the shrub itself and the psychoactive drink that is made from its rhizomes [2]. Kava beverage has a bitter and acrid taste which is known by the natives as ‘awa’ [2].