What are the side-effects of Kava?

 Noble strains of kava consumed in moderation by healthy adults does not pose any serious or long-term side effects. Some minor side effects that may occur are sensitivity to light and noise and on some occasions an upset stomach/nausea. A good chaser (ginger ale, lemonade, or other flavoured beverage) after you have chugged down your shell of kava helps to relieve this. Although reversable, if kava is consumed too excessively in a short time frame, you may experience loss of muscle and co-ordination control where your legs don’t work right and you do the kava dance. You may also experience sedation.

In some cases, pro-longed heavy kava use may lead to a temporary and fully reversable skin condition known as “kava dermopathy” or, as they say in Vanuatu, “skin olsem snake” (snake skin). The skin looks dry, scaley and flaky, hence the name snake skin. Some people report that better straining of your kava (less sediment) can help in preventing the rash. The rash usually clears up after a couple of weeks after you stop or reduce your Kava consumption amount.

A very small number of users maybe experience a rare allergic reaction to kava, usually characterised by swelling of the face or itchy red rash. If you experience these symptoms, it may be necessary that you discontinue the use of kava. If symptoms persist or you suffer a more severe allergic reaction seek medical advice from a professional.

Kava is a diuretic so we strongly encourage you keep up your fluid intake to remain hydrated throughout your kava session and before you go to bed, otherwise you experience minor dehydration.