Effects of the heavy usage of kava on physical health: summary of a pilot survey in an Aboriginal community

Gene expression profiling in male B6C3F1 mouse livers exposed to kava identifies – Changes in drug metabolizing genes and potential mechanisms linked to kava toxicity

“…In vivo and in vitro studies have been conducted to study inductive/inhibitory effects on drug metabolizing enzymes by kava in humans and rodents (Clayton et al, 2007; Guo et al, 2009; Gurley et al, 2005b; Mathews et al, 1988, 2002; Raucy, 2003; Russmann et al, 2005; Strahl et al, 1998). Unfortunately, the results obtained with in vitro or in vivo studies investigating the effects on drug metabolizing enzymes are inconsistent or contradictory.…”

Drug points: Hepatitis associated with Kava, a herbal remedy for anxiety

“…Heavy consumption of kava has been associated with increased concentrations of γ-glutamyltransferase, suggesting potential hepatotoxicity 1. A case of recurring necrotising hepatitis has been reported 2.…”

Kava (Piper methysticumForster)

“…The mean weekly consumption of 11 very heavy users of kava beverages in Australian Aboriginal communities was about 440 g. 21 Observational studies indicate that the ingestion of large doses of aqueous kava extract (200 g powder over 14 hours) causes cerebellar dysfunction with signifi cant reduction in cognitive abilities. 22 The rare association of kava use with hepatotoxicity suggests an idiopathic reaction that is not necessarily dose -related.…”