Originally Posted by
Mojo
It's hard to say. When you track your progress over these long periods like months and years and you do a million different things it becomes hard to judge what works and what doesn't.
There have been claims that Kava will naturally boost GABA receptor workings but after looking for concrete evidence, its very sparse and probably not that impactful.
I don't believe it has helped me or set me back on a molecular level. But it has helped me cope and deal with my existing anxiety. So in a way it has helped me mentally, which in the end helps you physically too.
A mistake I made though was not taking the dehydration seriously, which did set me back at times. Allways drink water on the side with your Kava, and maybe even add in some sodium and potassium.
Considering my alcohol consumption always seems to correlate with increased anxiety, Kava seems to stem it, I'm happy I found it. I spend a lot of money on it though since I have to import it over to Europe.
1 extra tip: if you buy, buy from a reputable vendor like Kalmwithkava, BestFijiKava, etc (you can find a good list on the Kava Subreddit). Cheaper brands use specially grown kava or use bad stuff from the plant like stems and leaves that increase the risk of liver problems.
Also, capsules don't really work. Your best bet is ground noble root. Also, when you prepare it, add a little cream (Kavalactones are extracted better with fat) and use warm (but not boiling) water.
You can save up the used mush after wringing al the moisture out in a container and use it again for a second less powerful wash. I save up 2 or 3 sessions of used Kava and put it in a blender with some water and fat. That second wash usually tastes a bit worse but still has the same effect. A nice way to save a bit of money. Also, never drink the actual pulp, make sure you use a good nutmilk bag or something. The pulp will upset your stomach big time.
Borongoru kava seems to be more relaxing for me, while Vanuatu is more aggressive and alchohol like.
One last thing: Kava will partly inhibit some enzymes in your liver that process other stuff. So watch out when you take things like acetaminophen or other meds.