Zen DropsKey takeaways
- Kava products have been linked to rare but sometimes serious liver injury; the exact cause is not settled.
- Suspected factors include non-noble varieties, the wrong plant parts, alcohol, contamination, high doses and long-term use.
- Common side effects are digestive upset, headache and dizziness; heavy long-term use can cause dry, scaly skin.
- Avoid kava if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, have liver disease, or take sedatives; ask your healthcare provider about any medication.
What health authorities say
The U.S. National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH) notes that various kava products have been linked to rare cases of liver injury, some serious or even fatal.[1] The first reported cases involved supplements extracted with alcohol or acetone, but other cases involved kava drinks made with water.
A 2016 review by the Food and Agriculture Organization and the World Health Organization looked at the safety of traditional and recreational kava beverages, and is the basis of international guidance on kava made from the root of noble varieties.[2]
Is kava bad for your liver?
Liver injury from kava is rare, but it has happened, and the exact cause is not settled. Suspected factors include:[1]
- Undesirable kava varieties (cultivars other than traditional "noble" kava);
- Inappropriate parts of the plant instead of the root;
- Taking kava together with alcohol;
- Adulterated or contaminated products;
- Large amounts or prolonged use;
- Individual (genetic) differences in how people process kava.
Practical steps that address those factors: choose products made from the root of noble kava, stay within the label dose, avoid daily long-term use, never combine kava with alcohol, and stop and see a doctor if you notice signs of liver trouble such as yellowing of the skin or eyes, dark urine, unusual tiredness, nausea or pain in the upper right abdomen.
Common side effects of kava
According to NCCIH, kava can cause:[1]
- digestive upset,
- headache,
- dizziness,
- and other side effects.
Long-term use of high doses can cause kava dermopathy: dry, scaly, flaky skin, reddened eyes, and temporary yellowing of the skin, hair and nails.[1] Kava can also make some people drowsy; don't drive or operate machinery until you know how it affects you.
Kava and medications, including SSRIs
Kava should not be used together with other substances that have sedative effects, such as benzodiazepines or alcohol.[1] Because kava is processed by the liver and acts on the nervous system, it may interact with other medicines too, including antidepressants such as SSRIs. If you take any medication, talk with your healthcare provider before using kava.[1]
Who should not take kava
- People who are pregnant or breastfeeding (kava contains pyrone compounds that may carry special risks).[1]
- People with liver disease or who drink alcohol regularly.
- People taking sedatives, sleep medication, or other medicines, unless their healthcare provider approves.
- Children and teenagers.
- Anyone scheduled for surgery, or who needs to drive or operate machinery soon after taking it.
Is kava addictive?
Kava is not generally considered physically addictive, and it is widely consumed socially in Pacific cultures. The better-documented risks come from heavy, long-term use (such as kava dermopathy) rather than dependence.[1] As with anything taken to relax, it is sensible to use it occasionally rather than to rely on it every day.
How Zen Drops addresses these risks
Zen Drops uses root extract from noble kava varieties grown by farmers in Vanuatu and Fiji, 75 mg per capsule. The label asks you to take 1–2 capsules as needed, never more than 4 in 24 hours, not to use it daily, and to talk to your healthcare provider first if you take prescription medication.
Frequently asked questions
Is kava safe to take every day?
Large amounts and prolonged use are associated with higher risk, including liver concerns and kava dermopathy. Occasional use at the label dose is the safer pattern; ask your healthcare provider about regular use.
Can kava damage your liver?
Rarely, yes. Kava products have been linked to rare cases of liver injury, some serious. Suspected factors include non-noble varieties, the wrong plant parts, alcohol, contamination, high doses and individual differences.
Can I take kava with antidepressants or anxiety medication?
Do not combine kava with sedatives such as benzodiazepines, and talk to your healthcare provider before using kava with any medication, including SSRIs.
Is kava legal in the United States?
Yes. Kava is sold in the United States as a dietary supplement. Some other countries regulate it differently.
What are the signs I should stop taking kava?
Stop and contact a doctor if you notice yellow skin or eyes, dark urine, unusual tiredness, nausea, or pain in the upper right side of the abdomen. Also stop if you develop dry, scaly skin.
From Zen Drops
Zen Drops Kava Root Extract
75 mg noble kava root extract per capsule with organic ginger and ashwagandha, in a plant-based capsule. Kava grown without pesticides by farmers in Vanuatu and Fiji.
- Noble kava root
- Vegan
- Gluten-free
- 16 capsules
$29.99$39.99Free shipping on orders over $50
Sources
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Talk to your healthcare provider before using kava, especially if you take medication, have liver problems, or are pregnant or breastfeeding.