For the last few years, I have been taking the medicinal herb
kava (sometimes called kava-kava) as a treatment for my anxiety disorder. This
powerful medicinal herb has been repeatedly found to combat anxiety symptoms as
effectively as some of the world's best-known pharmaceutical drugs, often with
fewer side effects. However, one major concern affects the many people who use
kava: is it safe to use with alcohol?
Even as a
kava user, I do enjoy an occasional beer or glass of wine, but I do so while
remaining mindful of the effects that the combination might have on my health.
To date, I haven't had any negative side effects associated with light alcohol
use in conjunction with kava use. However, it is prudent for kava users to
either avoid or strictly limit alcohol intake. Here are some reasons why.
Possible Increased Drowsiness
Like
many, if not most, drugs used to treat anxiety, kava causes some degree of
drowsiness. When combined with alcohol, which also slows the central nervous
system, these effects can be significant. I suggest combining alcohol with kava
only if an unexpected episode of drowsiness will not be a problem. For example,
you might choose to have a glass of wine after dinner while taking kava, with
the understanding that you may find yourself drawn to your bed within a few
minutes.
Slower Reflexes
Kava can
intensify the reflex-slowing effects of alcohol. You shouldn't be driving after
drinking anyway, but this is especially true if you use kava or any other
treatment for anxiety. When I'm not using kava, I might drive an hour or two
after finishing one drink, but I don't regard this as a responsible choice when
the two products are combined. My advice: don't drink at all -- not even one
drink -- if you take kava and you will need to drive.
Heightened Effects of Alcohol
The
compounds in kava can dramatically increase the effects of alcohol, so you may
find yourself feeling very inebriated much sooner than when you drink without
kava. When combined with kava, a drink or two might make you feel as
intoxicated as five or six. If you choose to drink while using kava, understand
that your tolerance for alcohol will be much lower than before.
Possibility of Liver Damage
Kava has
been linked to rare, but serious, cases of liver damage. Although it is a very
rare problem, people who are susceptible to liver disease are strongly advised
to avoid the product. Alcohol, especially in large amounts, can also damage the
liver, so there is some concern that it could intensify this effect. If you
have a history of alcoholism or intend to have more than a few drinks per month,
kava may not be the best choice for you. However, I have combined the two in
small to moderate quantities for some time, and lab work shows that my liver in
in ideal condition.
We
ultimately don't know exactly how safe or unsafe it is to combine kava with
alcohol, so most practitioners advise erring on the side of caution and
avoiding the combination. However, if you do choose to drink while taking the
herb, be sure to limit your intake, watch for unusual symptoms, and check with
your doctor about any troubling side effects you may experience.
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