Kava kava: Your Questions Answered
Thursday 18 July 2002
Find out more about kava kava.
What is kava kava?
Kava kava is a herbal ingredient derived from the plant Piper methysticum, which is a member of the pepper family native to many Pacific Ocean islands. Kava kava root is a common constituent in modern herbal preparations.
What is kava kava used for?
Kava kava is an ingredient commonly found in traditional herbal remedies and some food products. Traditionally it is used as a remedy to treat anxiety, tension and restlessness.
Why is the Food Standards Agency and the Medicines Controls Agency (MCA) advising against consuming kava kava?
Consumption of kava kava has been associated with severe liver toxicity.
The Committee on Safety of Medicines (CSM), who advise the MCA, has concluded that due these concerns, medicines containing the herbal ingredient kava kava should be removed from the market.
FSA scientists and the Chairman of the Committee on Toxicity have reviewed the data available to the CSM.
They have assessed the risks for food uses and conclude that, as the consumption of kava kava may be associated with serious liver damage, similar action is necessary for food products.
Will kava kava also be withdrawn from sale?
The Agency is planning to consult on new legislation banning food products containing kava kava from the market. This is in parallel with action being taken by the MCA regarding medicinal products.
Why is the MCA issuing advice about the same products?
Kava kava products are available as medicinal products and foods. As such, responsibility for their regulation and control falls to the MCA and the FSA respectively.
What should I do if I have been taking kava kava?
Both the FSA and the MCA are advising against the consumption of kava kava. If anyone who has been consuming kava kava feels unwell or has concerns they should see their doctor.