Symmetry Products with Kava Kava:
NeuroCalm
This herb, a member of the pepper
family, grows as a bush in the South Pacific. Explorer Captain James
Cook, who gave this plant the botanical name of "intoxicating
pepper", first discovered kava kava. Kava kava has been used
for over 3,000 years for its medicinal effects as a sedative, muscle
relaxant, diuretic, and as a remedy for nervousness and insomnia.
The botanical has been used in parts of the South Pacific at
traditional social gatherings as a relaxant. The roots can be made
into a beverage that is comparable to popular cocktails in our
culture. In Germany, kava kava is commonly used to reduce anxiety.
Kava kava was first mentioned in scientific records in 1886, and it
is gaining popularity in the US for its relaxing effects.
More recently, kava kava has also gained popularity with the natives
of Hawaii, Australia and New Guinea where it is also used for its
calming properties. Kava kava has also effective to soothe muscle
tension as in PMS. Topically, kava kava has a analgesic
effect.
Recent clinical studies have shown that kava kava is safe,
non-addictive, anti-anxiety and has been shown to improve
concentration, memory, and reaction time for people suffering from
anxiety. Kava kava has been clinically demonstrated as a means of
achieving a state of relaxation without the adverse side effects.
Several lactones have been isolated in the kava kava root. Of the
fifteen lactones isolated from kava, there are six major lactones (kavalactones)
known to provide its beneficial activity: kawain, methysticin,
demethoxy-yangonin, dihydrokawain, dihydomethysicin, and yongonin.
All kavalactones are physiologically active, though it is the
fat-soluble kavalactones derived from kava kava resin that have the
greatest effect on the central nervous system. Kava kava also has a
direct effect on muscle tension. The activity of the kava rhizome is
related to several arylethylene pyrones similar in structure to
myristicin, which is found in nutmeg.
Kava kava's primary use is as a relaxant and sleep-aid. It
induces a feeling of peace, relaxation and contentment along with a
sharpening of the senses.
Kava kava is the most relaxing botanical herb known with exception
of the opium poppy. Pharmacological studies show kava kava's active
ingredients, kavalactones, produce physical and mental relaxation
and a feeling of well being. It is an effective local
anesthetic and pain reliever when applied externally as a liniment.
The relaxed state and sharpening of senses also contribute to an
aphrodisiac effect.
Parts Used: Root and rhizome. Used as powder, fluid
extract, and tonic beverage.
Common Use: Kava kava root is primarily used as a
natural sedative and sleep enhancement. Herbalists have
traditionally used it as a remedy for nervousness and insomnia. Kava
kava is an effective relaxant able to induce a feeling of
relaxation, peace and contentment, along with a sharpening of the
senses. As a sleep aid it promotes deep and restful sleep. It is
also a muscle relaxant that can help relieve cramping due to spasms.
NOTE: Do not use if pregnant, nursing, or being treated for
depression.
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