HOW KAVA MAY HELP WITH ANXIETY
Kavalactones
Ready for a little science behind Kavalactones, kava root’s signature compound?
These compounds influence mood and relaxation levels.
Research suggests that kavalactones can interact with certain brain receptors linked to mood regulation and relaxation. They appear to promote a sense of calm, reduce tension, support relaxation (even a slight buzz), ease nervousness or social unease in some individuals. Good news: they also don’t impair alertness.
Some clinical studies (such as those published in journals like Phytotherapy Research and Journal of Psychopharmacology) have discovered that standardized kava extracts and powders may reduce symptoms of generalized anxiety over time.
Pittner & Ernst -
Cochrane-style review of RCTs (Randomized-Controlled Trial)
2003: These trials ranged from 1-24 weeks.
Participants that received the kava extract experienced short-term relief from anxiety compared to the participants who received the placebo.
Sarris et al. -
The KADSS (Kava-Anxiety Depression Spectrum Study), (Placebo-Controlled Crossover)
2009: This study used roughly 60 adults.
A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled cross-over trial used water-based kava root extract and found that at the dose helped reduce anxiety and offered antidepressant effects, as well. No major safety signals were reported in the short treatment window. **This study emphasized using noble kava extract (relevant to the root’s safety).
Sarris et al. -
Kava in Generalized Anxiety Disorders - Moderate Effect Size in Short Term
2013: A study for generalized anxiety disorder reported a significant reduction in anxiety scores for the kava extract group versus the participants that received placebos with a moderate effect size. The effect was larger in participants with moderate-severe generalized anxiety disorders. Durations in many positive trials were in the 4-8 week range.
Sarris et al. -
Longer Trial Randomized (16 Week Generalized Anxiety Disorders RCT) - Longer Duration, More Ambiguous Results & Safety Signals
2020: Duration = 16 Weeks
This randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial examined water-based kava extract for generalized anxiety disorders. Unlike shorter trials, the longer study didn’t show a consistent, significant advantage across all outcomes.
These studies collectively tell us that kava extracts can reduce anxiety versus the placebo over short terms (typically 3-8 weeks) especially when using safe, standardized noble water-based kava extracts.