Kava Kava (Piper methysticum)

Part Used Root
Main function Herb to Clear Wetness/Phlegm patterns
Thermal qual. Warm
Taste Spicy
Meridians Entered Ht, Sp, Kd, UB
Functions
  • Resolves Wetness/Phlegm
  • Treats Kidney Qi Deficiency with Wetness
  • Treats Spleen Deficiency with Wetness
  • Relieves anxiety and depression
  • Cautions
  • Contraindicated in liver disease
  • Contraindicated in chronic depression with no anxiety
  • Contraindicated in pregnancy/breast feeding
  • Contraindicated in Yin Deficiency Heat
  • Toxicity
  • Relatively safe for long term use if contraindications observed (take for 4 wks, break for 2 wks)
  • Phyto-chemicals
  • Kava lactones (kavaine, methysticine, yangonin), piperidine alkaloids, yangonic acid
  • Western Properties
  • Tonic, anti-anxiety, analgesic, urinary anti-septic, anti-spasmodic, diuretic, aphrodisiac
  • Notes
  • Used for anxiety, genito-urinary infections, arthritis, rheumatism, insomnia, chronic pain, stress, tension, neuralgia, palpitations/panic attacks, menstrual cramps

  • Copyright © 2001 John Freeman. All rights reserved.