Why people connect kava and anxiety
Kava has been the South Pacific's relaxing evening drink for centuries, and people today often describe it as calming. That reputation led researchers to study it for anxiety.
What studies have found
Research on kava extracts for anxiety has produced mixed results. Some studies found a modest short-term effect compared with placebo; others found no meaningful difference. The National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH) describes the evidence as inconsistent.
The safety question
Kava has been linked to rare cases of severe liver injury, and it shouldn't be combined with alcohol or other substances that cause drowsiness. That's a meaningful tradeoff for anyone considering it for a health reason.
What we'd tell a friend
Enjoy kava as a drink, the way people have for centuries: as an occasional end-of-day ritual. Don't use it to treat anxiety. Anxiety disorders are common and very treatable, and a doctor or licensed therapist can help.
If you're in crisis, call or text 988 (in the US) to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.
Questions people ask
Does kava help with anxiety?
Research is mixed. Some studies found a modest short-term effect; others didn't. It's not a treatment for an anxiety disorder.
Is kava safe?
Kava has been linked to rare cases of severe liver injury. Don't combine it with alcohol, and talk to your doctor if you have liver problems or take medication.
For adults 21+. Don't mix with alcohol.
