Kava (Piper methysticum)
Photo: Forest & Kim Starr · CC BY 3.0
- Mental
- 2 conditions
- Licensed photo
Overview
Kava (Piper methysticum), a member of the pepper family native to the South Pacific, has been made into ceremonial and medicinal drinks by Pacific Islanders for thousands of years. Kava products are promoted for anxiety and other health conditions; NCCIH says kava supplements may help anxiety, but there isn't enough evidence to show whether kava helps any other condition.
Traditional uses & properties
Anxiety: NCCIH says kava supplements may help anxiety, although they do not appear to help generalized anxiety disorder. Traditional Ritual Herb: Commonly used in Polynesian social and religious contexts.
Amounts reported by sources
Preparation amounts are not shown for this herb. It is toxic, restricted, or otherwise unsafe to self-dose - the margin between a traditional dose and a harmful one is too small to publish as reference material. If you are considering it, that conversation belongs with a doctor or a qualified practitioner, not a website.
Safety & precautions
Liver injury: Rare but severe liver injury, including hepatitis, cirrhosis, liver failure needing a transplant, and death, has been reported with kava products. LiverTox puts kava in its top likelihood category (A) for causing liver injury, with symptoms usually starting within weeks to a few months of use. MSK describes a case of liver failure and transplant after about two months of use with no sign of overdosing. In March 2002 the U.S. FDA issued a consumer advisory on this risk, and several countries restricted kava or removed it from sale. Do not use kava if you have liver disease or drink alcohol, and talk to a doctor first if you take medicines that can affect the liver. Stop and get medical advice if you notice yellowing skin or eyes, dark urine, or unusual tiredness. Sedation: Kava can impair driving and adds to the effects of alcohol and sedatives. Pregnancy & Nursing: Not recommended. Legality: Subject to restrictions in many countries.
Educational reference only - not medical advice. Herbs can interact with medications. Consult a qualified healthcare provider before use. Full disclaimer.
Drug interactions
Interaction data is not available for this herb - talk to a pharmacist before combining it with any medication. A blank entry here means we have not documented interactions, not that none exist.
Habitat
Native to Polynesia and regions of Oceania, kava is also grown in parts of the U.S. (Hawaii) and Australia. It requires fertile, well-drained, stony soil in shade. Propagation is typically from runners in late winter or spring, with roots harvested year-round.
Sources
The interaction notes and the statements on this page that name a source were written by HerbMate from these references, which were last checked in October 2026. They are summaries, not medical advice; ask a pharmacist about your own medicines.
Traditionally used for
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Frequently asked questions
What is Kava (Piper methysticum) traditionally used for?
Traditional sources describe Kava (Piper methysticum) as follows: Anxiety: NCCIH says kava supplements may help anxiety, although they do not appear to help generalized anxiety disorder. Traditional Ritual Herb: Commonly used in Polynesian social and religious contexts.
How is Kava (Piper methysticum) prepared?
Preparation amounts are not shown for this herb. It is toxic, restricted, or otherwise unsafe to self-dose - the margin between a traditional dose and a harmful one is too small to publish as reference material. If you are considering it, that conversation belongs with a doctor or a qualified practitioner, not a website.
What safety cautions apply to Kava (Piper methysticum)?
Liver injury: Rare but severe liver injury, including hepatitis, cirrhosis, liver failure needing a transplant, and death, has been reported with kava products. LiverTox puts kava in its top likelihood category (A) for causing liver injury, with symptoms usually starting within weeks to a few months of use. MSK describes a case of liver failure and transplant after about two months of use with no sign of overdosing. In March 2002 the U.S. FDA issued a consumer advisory on this risk, and several countries restricted kava or removed it from sale. Do not use kava if you have liver disease or drink alcohol, and talk to a doctor first if you take medicines that can affect the liver. Stop and get medical advice if you notice yellowing skin or eyes, dark urine, or unusual tiredness. Sedation: Kava can impair driving and adds to the effects of alcohol and sedatives. Pregnancy & Nursing: Not recommended. Legality: Subject to restrictions in many countries.
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