What are the effects of Kava?

The pharmacologically active compounds in kava are kavalactones. How this affects you depends on different factors, such as the variety and part of the plant used, it’s age and how it is prepared for consumption. Kavalactones are reported to have muscle relaxant, local anaesthetic, anxiety relieving and anticonvulsive properties. These psychotropic effects seem to occur without reducing cognitive functioning unlike alcohol and other drugs. Drinkers of kava report a sense of relaxation, stress relief, improved sleep and a mild euphoric effect enhancing their sense of wellbeing and sociable attitude.