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 | How do I choose a Kava Kava product? |
|  Kava Kava (Piper methysticum) is a flowering shrub that belongs to the black pepper family. Also known as kava, it is available as a capsule, liquid extract, powder, and root, and in several "herbal drinks." Its active ingredients are thought to be chemicals called kavalactones.Follow package labeling carefully because the amount of kavalactones and dosages can vary from product to product. When selecting a kava product, choose a reputable company that standardizes its products. Standardized products are guaranteed to contain the amount of the active ingredient listed on the label. Reputable manufacturers that standardize their products include Nature’s Way and GNC. Sources: The PDR Family Guide to Natural Medicines & Healing Therapies. Medical Economics Co., 1999.The Review of Natural Products. Facts & Comparisons, 2007.Wong, A.H. "Herbal Remedies in Psychiatric Practice," Archives of General Psychiatry, 55 (1998). Pittler MH. “Efficacy Of Kava Extract For Treating Anxiety: Systematic Review And Meta-analysis”, Journal of Clinical Psychopharmacology 20 (2000).The Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database. Pharmacists Letter Inc., 2000.This answer prepared 6/5/2000. This information updated 1/22/2007. |
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