Hawaiian Kava Root, also known as 'awa or kava kava, is a traditional herbal remedy that has been used for centuries in the Pacific Islands. It is made from the roots of the Piper methysticum plant and is known for its calming and sedative effects. In recent years, Hawaiian Kava Root has gained popularity in the United States as a natural alternative to prescription medications for anxiety and stress.
The Controversy Surrounding Hawaiian Kava Root
While Hawaiian Kava Root has been used safely by adults for many years, there is some controversy surrounding its safety for children. Some experts believe that it may have harmful effects on the liver, while others argue that it is safe when used in moderation. The main concern with Hawaiian Kava Root is its potential to cause liver damage.In 2001, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued a warning about the potential risks of using kava supplements, including liver damage and failure. This warning was based on a few reported cases of liver damage in adults who had taken kava supplements. However, it is important to note that these cases were linked to the use of kava supplements, not the traditional preparation of Hawaiian Kava Root. The traditional method of preparing kava involves grinding the root into a powder and mixing it with water to create a drink. This method has been used safely for centuries and is still the preferred way of consuming kava in the Pacific Islands.
The Safety of Hawaiian Kava Root for Children
So, what does this mean for children? Can they safely consume Hawaiian Kava Root?According to Dr.Michael McGuffin, president of the American Herbal Products Association, there is no evidence to suggest that Hawaiian Kava Root is unsafe for children when used in moderation. In fact, he states that there have been no reported cases of liver damage in children who have consumed kava in its traditional form. However, it is important to note that there have been very few studies on the effects of kava on children. Most of the research has been done on adults, so it is difficult to say with certainty how kava may affect children. One study published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology found that kava had a calming effect on children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). The study involved 24 children between the ages of 6 and 12 who were given either kava or a placebo.
The results showed that the children who received kava had a significant reduction in their ADHD symptoms compared to those who received the placebo. Another study published in the Journal of Clinical Psychopharmacology found that kava had a positive effect on anxiety and stress levels in adolescents. The study involved 60 adolescents between the ages of 13 and 17 who were given either kava or a placebo. The results showed that those who received kava had a significant reduction in their anxiety and stress levels compared to those who received the placebo.
The Importance of Moderation
While these studies show promising results, it is important to remember that moderation is key when it comes to consuming Hawaiian Kava Root. Just like with any herbal remedy, too much of a good thing can be harmful. It is recommended that children only consume Hawaiian Kava Root under the supervision of a healthcare professional.This will ensure that they are taking the appropriate dosage and are not at risk for any potential side effects.
