Is Kava Safe? Liver Health, Side Effects, and How to Use It Responsibly

Kava (Piper methysticum) is having a moment. From dedicated Kava bars popping up in Portland to its inclusion in functional wellness teas, people are discovering what Pacific Islanders have known for 3,000 years: it is one of nature's most effective tools for relaxation.

But with its rise in popularity comes a wave of questions. You may have Googled it and seen warnings about liver health, or wondered how it compares to alcohol. At Yerba Buena Tea Co., we believe in radical transparency. Because we use organic Kava in our organic kava sleep tea and kava muscle relaxation tea, we want to provide a medically accurate breakdown of the benefits, the risks, and the safety guidelines.

What Is Kava?

Kava is a shrub native to the South Pacific islands, including Vanuatu, Fiji, and Tonga. Traditionally, the root is ground and mixed with water to create a ceremonial beverage consumed for social relaxation and conflict resolution.

Unlike tea (Camellia sinensis), Kava does not contain caffeine. Instead, its active compounds are kavalactones, which are known to produce calming, anesthetic, and euphoric effects.

The Big Question: Kava and Liver Health

If you search "is Kava safe," the primary concern you will encounter is liver toxicity. It is important to look at the full picture.

In the early 2000s, reports of liver injury led several countries to ban Kava. However, a major 2016 report by the World Health Organization (WHO) and FAO reviewed these cases and concluded that Kava has an "acceptable level of risk" when prepared traditionally (water extraction) using the root of the plant.

The report noted that liver issues were strongly associated with:

• Poor Quality Material: Using stems and leaves (aerial parts) rather than the root. These parts contain alkaloids that can be toxic to humans.
• Non-Traditional Extracts: Using ethanol or acetone to extract the kavalactones, which concentrates the compounds to levels far higher than natural preparations.

Note: While rare, liver injury has been reported even with traditional use. If you have existing liver disease or unexplained liver test abnormalities, you should avoid Kava.

Source: FAO & WHO Report: Kava safety review (2016)

Kava vs. Alcohol: How It Works

People often compare Kava to alcohol because both act as social lubricants, but they function differently in the brain.

• Alcohol: Has broad effects on the Central Nervous System (CNS), often impairing cognitive function and motor skills.
• Kava: Modulates specific GABA-A receptor subtypes. Clinical studies suggest this can produce anxiolytic (anxiety-reducing) effects without the marked cognitive impairment associated with alcohol.
• The "Hangover": Kava is less likely to cause the dehydration or acetaldehyde-related headaches of an alcohol hangover. However, high doses can lead to "morning grogginess" or lingering tiredness.

Is Kava Addictive?

Kava is generally not considered physically addictive in the same way as opioids or nicotine, though heavy, long-term use can lead to dependence-like patterns. Interestingly, many regular users report a phenomenon known as "Reverse Tolerance."

Unlike caffeine or alcohol, where you need more over time to feel the same effect, some users report needing less Kava over time as their body adapts to the kavalactones. While clinical data on this is preliminary, it is a commonly reported experience in the kava community.

Safety Guidelines: Who Should Avoid It?

Kava is a potent botanical and should be treated with respect. Please follow these harm-reduction guidelines:

• Do Not Mix with Alcohol: Since both substances are processed by the liver, combining them adds unnecessary stress to the organ.
• Medication Interactions: Consult your clinician if you are taking benzodiazepines, anticonvulsants, or other sedatives, as Kava may amplify their effects.
• Pregnancy & Nursing: Out of an abundance of caution, we recommend avoiding Kava while pregnant or breastfeeding.
• Warning Signs: Stop use and consult a doctor immediately if you develop yellowing of the skin/eyes, dark urine, or severe abdominal pain.

The Verdict

When sourced correctly (Noble root) and consumed in moderation, Kava is generally regarded as safe for healthy adults. It remains a functional favorite in our Good Night blend for helping quiet the mind at the end of a long day.

Disclaimer: This content is for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, or cure any disease. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting a new herbal regimen.