Do you sometimes feel heavy, sleepy, or just plain anxious? At such times, you may have heard someone from a friend or on the internet talking about an herbal supplement called 'Kava Kava'. It is often said that it is good for mental calmness and good sleep. But even things like this that are said to be 'natural' need to be carefully considered before using them. Because they can also have some risks. So today, let's talk about what this kava kava is and what things to be careful about when using it.
What exactly is Kava Kava?
Simply put, kava kava is an herbal supplement. That means it is not a medicine. It is believed to help with mental relaxation and sleep. But the most important thing here is that it has not been approved by major agencies in the world, such as the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA), as a treatment for any medical condition.
This means that it has not been tested for quality, safety, and effectiveness like a prescription drug. It may contain other ingredients that are not listed on the label.
Therefore, if you are using an herbal supplement for any reason, it is a must to talk to your doctor about it.
Things you should tell your doctor before using kava kava
If you are considering using kava kava, it is extremely important to inform your doctor if you have any of the following conditions, as using kava kava in these cases can cause serious health problems.
| The situation that concerns you | Why do you need to tell the doctor? |
|---|---|
| If you are a frequent drinker | Both kava kava and alcohol can affect the liver. Using both together greatly increases the risk of serious liver damage . |
| If you have liver disease | For someone who already has some liver weakness, using kava kava can worsen the condition. |
| If you have a mental illness | Kava can interact with medications taken for conditions such as depression, and symptoms may also change. |
| If you have a history of drug addiction | The effects of kava kava can change unexpectedly with certain substances. |
| If you have an allergy to kava kava or other plants, foods, or medications | There is a risk of an allergic reaction. |
| If you are pregnant or trying to get pregnant | There is not enough information about the safety of kava kava during pregnancy, so avoid use completely during this time. |
| If you are a breastfeeding mother | It is not advisable to use kava kava during this time, as it may have some effect on the baby through breast milk. |
How should I use this?
If you and your doctor have discussed and decided that you can use kava kava, be aware of these points.
- Drink this with a glass of water.
- For best results, it is best to take this with a meal .
- Follow the instructions on the label or as directed by your doctor. Never take more than the prescribed dose.
- It is not advisable to give kava kava to children. Therefore, keep it away from children.
What to do if you overdose? (Overdosage)
If you think you've taken more than you think, take action immediately. In such a case, ColomboCall the National Poisons Information Centre at the National Hospital. Or go to the ETU (Emergency Treatment Unit) of the nearest hospital. It is very important to seek medical advice without wasting time.
What if I miss a dose?
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your next dose at the scheduled time. Never take a double dose.
Other things that can interact with kava kava (Interactions)
Kava kava can interact with other medications and substances and cause unwanted effects. Therefore, if you are taking any of the following, you should tell your doctor before taking kava kava.
| Type of drug or substance | Possible impact |
|---|---|
| Alcohol | The risk of excessive drowsiness, decreased consciousness, and liver damage is very high. |
| Medicines for sleep or epilepsy (e.g., barbiturates) | The drowsiness-inducing properties of these medications can be further enhanced by kava kava, reaching dangerous levels. |
| Medications for depression, anxiety, or other mental illnesses | The effectiveness of medications may change and side effects may increase. |
| Muscle relaxants | The risk of drowsiness and loss of body control increases. |
| Other medications that can affect the liver, such as Leflunomide and Methotrexate | Taking kava with a medication that already affects the liver can increase liver damage. |
This list is not complete. So tell your doctor about all the medications, herbal supplements, and vitamins you take. Also tell him if you smoke or drink alcohol.
Things to keep in mind when using this
If symptoms do not subside...
If you start taking kava kava in hopes of relieving a symptom, but your symptoms do not improve or worsen, see a doctor immediately. It is generally not recommended to use kava kava for more than 4 weeks without medical advice. The potential harm from long-term use is not yet fully understood.
Watch out for drowsiness and dizziness.
You may feel drowsy or dizzy when using kava kava. So, until you know exactly how it affects your body, do not drive, operate machinery, or do anything else that requires sharp attention.
Especially if you are older, do it regularly when you stand up suddenly or get up from a sitting position. Otherwise, you are more likely to get dizzy and fall.
Before surgery...
If you are having any surgery or dental treatment, tell your doctor or dentist in advance that you are taking kava kava. You may be advised to stop taking it a few days before the surgery, as kava kava can interact with anesthesia.
Is everything that says 'natural' safe?
This is something that many people think wrongly.
Just because something is labeled 'natural' doesn't mean it is 100% safe for humans to use.
Herbal supplements are not subject to the same strict quality control as prescription drugs. This means that their purity and strength can vary. Therefore, it is wise to choose something that is manufactured by a trusted, well-known company. Always read the label carefully and follow the instructions.
Side effects you may experience
As with anything, some people may experience side effects when using kava kava. It is important to be aware of these.
| Type of side effect | Symptoms |
|---|---|
| If you experience these symptoms, see a doctor immediately. | |
| Allergic reactions | Skin rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat. |
| Liver injury | Pain in the upper right side of the stomach, loss of appetite, nausea, light-colored stools, dark yellow or brown urine, yellowing of the eyes or skin, and unusual tiredness. |
| If these symptoms persist or become bothersome, tell your doctor. | |
| Dizziness | Feeling like a general dizziness. |
| Drowsiness the day after | Even if taken at night, feeling sleepy the next day. |
| Upset stomach | Minor discomforts such as stomach ache and nausea. |
This list does not include all possible side effects. If you notice anything unusual, talk to your doctor.
How should this be stored?
- Keep out of reach of children and pets .
- Store at room temperature, away from moisture.
- Do not use or dispose of anything that has expired.
Take-Home Message
- Kava kava is not a medicine, but an herbal supplement. So be sure to talk to your doctor before using it.
- Not everything that says "natural" is "safe." These can also have risks.
- Avoid using kava kava completely if you have liver disease, are pregnant, or are a nursing mother.
- Avoid drinking alcohol while using kava kava. It can cause serious liver damage.
- Watch for signs of liver damage (e.g., yellowing of the eyes, dark urine, pain in the right side of the stomach). If you experience any of these symptoms, seek medical advice immediately.
- Inform your doctor about all other medications you are taking.
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