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Michelle Guerrero Denison

"Kava Kava: The Natural Relaxant You Might Want to Explore Today"

Hey there, my Herblings new and old! Today, I want to talk about a plant that has been used for centuries in Polynesian culture as a relaxant and a way to improve mood. I'm talking about Kava Kava, (scientifice name: Piper methysticum). Fun fact: that means magical pepper!


Kava Kava has a long history of traditional use in Polynesian culture, where it is consumed as a drink during ceremonies and social gatherings. The plant is a member of the pepper family and is native to the Western Pacific region. Kava Kava's relaxing effects on the mind and body are why it has become a popular herbal remedy in many parts of the world.

So, what makes Kava Kava such a special herb? Well, it's all about its herbal actions. Kava Kava contains active compounds called kavalactones, which have been shown to have a calming effect on the central nervous system. This means that Kava Kava can help to reduce feelings of anxiety, stress, and tension. The herb also has muscle-relaxing properties, making it a great choice for those looking to ease physical tension in the body. I love working with it my muscle rub formulations!

One of the most well-known effects of Kava Kava is its ability to promote relaxation and improve mood. Studies have shown that Kava Kava can help to improve symptoms of anxiety and depression, making it a natural alternative to prescription medication. This herb can also help to improve sleep quality, which can further benefit those suffering from anxiety and depression.

But what about the safety profile of Kava Kava? Well, there have been some concerns about the potential for liver toxicity with the long-term use of Kava Kava. However, these concerns are primarily related to the use of standardized extracts and not the whole plant. The traditional preparation of Kava Kava involves the chewing of fresh root, and this method has been shown to have a low risk of liver toxicity. When using Kava Kava as an herbal remedy, it's always best to work with preparations made from the root (never the leaves) and to follow recommended dosages.


While Kava Kava has been shown to have a calming effect on the central nervous system and can be a natural alternative for those looking to reduce feelings of anxiety, stress, and tension, it is important to note that it is not recommended for individuals with addiction issues.

Kava Kava can cause a mild euphoric effect and can be habit-forming for some people. While it is not considered an addictive substance, individuals with a history of addiction should exercise caution when using Kava Kava as it may trigger a relapse or cause other negative effects.


As with any herbal remedy or medication, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional before using Kava Kava, especially if you have a history of addiction or are currently taking medication. While Kava Kava has numerous benefits, individuals with addiction issues should be cautious when using this herb, and it is crucial to speak with a healthcare professional before starting any new herbal remedy or medication.

In conclusion, Kava Kava is a wonderful herb that has been used for centuries to promote relaxation and improve mood. Its herbal actions make it a great choice for those looking to reduce feelings of anxiety, stress, and tension, while its safety profile makes it a safe and effective alternative to prescription medication for some. If you're interested in trying out Kava Kava for yourself, head over to shop and check out my Rub it Out liniment for muscles or maybe my Make It Stop tincture for anxiety support. Happy herb-ing!

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