From the Research
Kava supplementation is not safe for individuals with pre-existing liver conditions or those at risk of liver injury, and they should completely avoid kava products in any form. The risk of liver damage associated with kava use is a significant concern, particularly for those with compromised liver function due to conditions such as hepatitis, alcoholic liver disease, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, or cirrhosis 1, 2, 3, 4.
Key Considerations
- Kava contains compounds called kavalactones that have been linked to severe liver damage, including hepatitis, cirrhosis, and liver failure requiring transplantation 1.
- The liver damage mechanism appears to be idiosyncratic, meaning it's unpredictable and not necessarily dose-dependent, making it impossible to establish a "safe" dose for vulnerable individuals 2, 3.
- Even short-term use can potentially trigger liver problems in susceptible people, and the risk is not worth any potential benefits for anxiety or other conditions that kava is commonly used to treat 5.
- Those taking medications that stress the liver (including acetaminophen, statins, and certain antibiotics) should also avoid kava due to the increased risk of hepatotoxicity 2, 3.
Recommendations
- Individuals with pre-existing liver conditions or those at risk of liver injury should avoid kava products in any form, including teas, supplements, extracts, or traditional preparations.
- Healthcare professionals should be aware of the potential hepatotoxicity of kava and advise patients accordingly, particularly those with compromised liver function or taking medications that stress the liver.
- The use of kava should be carefully monitored, and patients should be educated on the signs and symptoms of liver damage, such as jaundice, dark urine, and abdominal pain, and seek medical attention immediately if they experience any of these symptoms 4.