Kava is a tea prepared from the Piper methysticum, a plant native to the western Pacific islands.
The drink is notorious for its ability to reduce stress, anxiety, muscle soreness, and it can relieve pain. However, that is just one strain.
The plant itself contains a myriad of different strains that come with effects that range from relaxation to stimulation. People suffering from alcohol addiction or withdrawal have taken a liking to kava for it stress-reducing effects, similar to that of alcohol.
Kava puts people in a very relaxed state of mind while still keeping one’s mental clarity.
Alcohol, on the other hand, will help people relax with negative side effects, such the morning hangover.
Those suffering from that addiction have been using kava as a substitute to help wean themselves off of drinking.
Yes, Kava has been helpful for staying away from alcohol addiction, but the herbal remedy does not come without its faults.
The plant has been known to cause liver damage and possibly make Parkinson’s disease worse. Although Kava comes with many benefits for combating insomnia, stress, and anxiety, it is not a cure-all.
Alcohol withdrawal symptoms will still occur, the depression will still come, and the urge will to drink will still exist. Will this help combat withdrawal effects? According to some, yes to others, no.
As of right now, Kava is legal for consumption to those 18 and older but it is banned in the UK and Canada due to damaging effects on the liver.
Regardless, Kava has been gaining popularity. Kava bars are popping up in different areas of the nation, most residing on the coasts of the Eastern and Western states. Some even show up in the Mid-West.
Kava helps reduce stress, which is a common symptom for causing a potential relapse. Finding ways to reduce stress (meditation, yoga, hobbies etc.) works well for combating addiction.
