Kava Kava for Relaxation-ation
Posted by
Tracii H.
Kava first generated scientific interest during the mid-1800s, when researchers traced kava's relaxing properties to kavalactones. Kavalactones have been shown to relieve anxiety and pain and relax muscles in laboratory animals. In humans, they have been shown to change brain activity during an EEG without sedation. It also appears to have fewer negative effects on memory than prescription anti-anxiety meds, such as benzodiazepines or barbiturates. Kava is not without its potential side-effects, however. In 1995, a 28 year-old man reported muscle spasms in the neck and eyes. A 28-year-old woman reported similar symptoms after taking Kava. It’s also caused a worsening in Parkinson’s symptoms in at least one person. For these reasons, it would be prudent to dose carefully and consult a doctor before trying Kava.
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Kava Kava for Relaxation-ation
Posted by Tracii H.
Kava first generated scientific interest during the mid-1800s, when researchers traced kava's relaxing properties to kavalactones. Kavalactones have been shown to relieve anxiety and pain and relax muscles in laboratory animals. In humans, they have been shown to change brain activity during an EEG without sedation. It also appears to have fewer negative effects on memory than prescription anti-anxiety meds, such as benzodiazepines or barbiturates. Kava is not without its potential side-effects, however. In 1995, a 28 year-old man reported muscle spasms in the neck and eyes. A 28-year-old woman reported similar symptoms after taking Kava. It’s also caused a worsening in Parkinson’s symptoms in at least one person. For these reasons, it would be prudent to dose carefully and consult a doctor before trying Kava.