Can kava kava be used as a relaxant and analgesic?
A. If you can get by the taste, kava does numb the gums in a tingly way. It acts as a local anesthetic. Kava kava is the only relaxant that improves reaction time. Kava lifts anxiety without causing drowsiness. It is an effective muscle relaxant and anticonvulsant. Allowing the body and mind to relax facilitates healing. Kava enhances the negotiation process. It has been used indigenously for a long time. A daily dose of 100-200 kavalactones is normally sufficient. Dr. Atkins believes even more at bedtime might help sleep. Folks who use excessive amounts of kava for a long time sometimes develop a yellowish eczema that disappears when usage diminishes. Water extracts appear safe. Solvent extracted kava has been associated with liver damage.
