For years, chamomile tea has been a light sleeper’s staple. It’s warm and floral in taste, with a mild soothing effect that can help you drift off a little faster than usual.
Then there’s kava.
Kava is like chamomile on steroids. This muddy-tasting little root comes from the Pacific Islands, where people have used it for centuries as everything from a pain reliever to a ceremonial drink. A potent anxiety reliever, kava offers a non-alcoholic way to wind down at the end of the day, especially if you’re working late or you have trouble falling asleep.
The secret lies in kavalactones, the psychoactive parts of the kava plant. The kavalactones in a cup of kava tea, or a few drops of kava extract, can put you into a rare state of relaxed focus. Here are a few ways you can use them to your advantage.
Kava Kava is an herbal remedy that’s made from the roots of Piper methysticum – a type of plant found in the islands of the Pacific Ocean. Its name literally means “intoxicating pepper.” People who live on Pacific islands like Fiji and Tonga have used it for hundreds of years in social gatherings and traditional medicine. They dry out the roots or crush them into a powder. Then they add water and drink the mixture.
How’s It Used?
Kava kava (“kava” for short) contains substances called kavapyrones. They act much like alcohol on your brain, making you feel calm, relaxed, and happy. The plant is also thought to relieve pain, prevent seizures, and relax muscles.
You can buy it as an herbal supplement online and in health food stores. It’s available in capsules, tablets, or tinctures (that means it’s dissolved in alcohol).
Is it Safe?
Doctors aren’t sure how much kava you can take safely. If your doctor gives you the okay, use the smallest possible dose. Don’t take it for longer than 3 months, and avoid drinking alcohol while you’re using it.
The most important health benefits of kava root include its ability to reduce anxiety, help in weight loss goals, prevent premature aging, help quit smoking, reduce menopause symptoms, aid sleep, relax muscles, prevent headaches, and protect the kidneys.
How Kava Makes You Feel
To get the best effects from drinking, Kava is best consumed on an empty stomach. Here’s what to expect when you drink Kava for the first time:
First, it’s common for your lips to become numb. Some people enjoy this sensation while others dislike it. The numbness that is part of kava effects is normal and can last for a few minutes.
The way Kava makes me feel is great. Induces clarity of the mind, sort of feels like I’m sitting in a warm bath in heaven in a little slice of paradise.