Certain formulations claim to support focus while reducing mental tension.
It’s important to note that while kava may help with short-term anxiety kava shots and stress, it is not a cure or long-term treatment for mental health disorders.
Is It Safe?
Kava is generally considered safe for short-term use when taken in moderation. However, there have been concerns about its impact on liver health. In the early 2000s, several reports linked high doses of kava to liver toxicity, which led to regulatory restrictions in some countries. However, further research has suggested that the risk may be tied more to poor-quality extracts, contamination, or the use of non-root parts of the plant (like stems or leaves), rather than the root itself.
To reduce risk, consumers should look for:
Products made from noble kava varieties (safer strains used traditionally in the South Pacific)
Kava root only (not stems or leaves)
Reputable brands that provide lab testing for purity and kavalactone content
Long-term, heavy use of kava may lead to a condition called kava dermopathy, a dry, scaly skin rash, along with possible tolerance and dependency. Users should avoid mixing kava with alcohol, sedatives, or medications that affect the liver.
Popularity and Modern Appeal
In recent years, kava shots have become especially popular in the U.S. wellness community as part of the growing demand for natural stress relief and sober-curious lifestyles. Kava bars have opened in cities across the U.S., Australia, and Europe, offering social environments without alcohol. Kava shots are also a staple of online wellness shops and convenience stores focused on herbal or functional beverages.
They appeal to people seeking:
A natural alternative to alcohol
Non-addictive anxiety support
Improved mood and mental clarity
Relief from social anxiety without hangovers