Kava's evening reputation
Across the Pacific, kava is traditionally drunk in the evening, and many people describe it as relaxing. That's why it often comes up in conversations about sleep.
What research says
Studies on kava and sleep are few and small, and they don't establish kava as a treatment for insomnia. Most kava research has focused on anxiety, with mixed results.
Safety
Kava has been linked to rare but serious liver injury. Don't combine it with alcohol, sleep medication or anything else that causes drowsiness.
Better first steps for sleep
Consistent sleep and wake times, a dark and cool room, less caffeine after noon, and less alcohol in the evening are the well-supported basics. If sleep problems persist, a doctor can help figure out why.
Questions people ask
Does kava help you sleep?
Research is limited and kava isn't an established sleep aid.
Can I take kava with sleep medication?
No. Don't combine kava with sleep medication, alcohol, or other substances that cause drowsiness.
For adults 21+. Don't mix with alcohol.
