Kava Kava Dosing

Information about kava kava dosing is obtained from clinical studies and from practical experience with the supplement. Most studies used 100 mg of a kava kava extract for the treatment of anxiety. However, a safe and effective kava kava dosage has not yet been established. It is important to note that taking any amount of kava may cause serious liver damage.

 

An Introduction to Kava Kava Dosage

It is important to note that unlike medications (for which the standard doses have been well established), there is less information for determining the best dose for supplements, including kava kava (Piper methysticum).
 

Reasonable Kava Kava Dosing

Some information about kava kava dosing can be obtained from clinical studies and from practical experience with the supplement. Most studies of kava kava for anxiety used doses of 100 mg of a kava kava extract (standardized to 70 percent kava kava-lactones, twice as strong as most commercially availably extracts). "Standardization" means that the kava kava extracts were tested to make sure they had a standard amount of kava kava-lactones (thought to be the active chemical components of kava kava).
 
It is important to note that a safe kava kava dosage has not been established, and there is some concern that the supplement can cause liver damage. In fact, kava kava has been banned in several countries due to such problems. People who already have liver problems should not take kava kava.
 

General Information on Dosing With Kava Kava

Some considerations for people taking kava kava include:
 
 
  • Since the manufacturing of supplements (such as kava kava) is not closely regulated, it is important to choose a trustworthy manufacturer for kava kava supplements. Your pharmacist can help you choose a reputable manufacturer.
     
  • If you have any chronic health problems or take any prescription medications, it is probably a good idea to check with your healthcare provider before taking kava kava.
     
  • If you are unsure about anything related to your dosage or kava kava dosing in general, please talk with your healthcare provider.
     
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;