Kava Kava - the calming herb of the South Pacific

I suppose that it is only natural that a tour around Hawaii, even a virtual tour, would lead to the discussion of Kava Kava.

I had heard little about Kava Kava until I came across it in relation to www.konakavafarm.com and began looking into just what Kava Kava is.

There is a lot of talk about rather or not Kava Kava has any adverse effects on the liver, but I have not yet found anything definite about the possibility. It seems that there is a link to something contained in stem peelings and leaves which has toxic effects on liver cells. There has been reports that the potentially liver damaging parts were associated with the use of non-root parts of the plant being used. Other than that there is a strong warning that Kava should not be used by those with Parkinson's disease, as among other problems it can cause in increase in 'off' times.

Kava has been used in the South Pacific for centuries as a ceremonial beverage. Other uses that are more modern have been as a treatment for anxiety and insomnia. A member of the pepper family it has been reported to produce a numbing effect on the tongue and lips.

Kona Kava Farm uses only root sections of the plant, stating: "We use ROOTS ONLY from our Kava plants. We have 90% lateral roots and 10% underground, making our Kava some of the most potent and safe available. None of our products has ever been linked to any liver damage because we never use the stems or leaves of the plant, which may be harmful to your liver."

The Kava of the Kona Kava Farm is reported by Kona Kava Farm to be very potent and organic certified. For more information visit the Kona Kava Farm website at the link above.