Natural Medicines Newsletter

Volume 1, Issue 42, 11/05/2009

Question

Why should patients with active liver disease (such as cirrhosis, hepatitis and/or fatty liver disease) not take supplements containing kava extract (Piper methysticum)?

Answer

Kava (Piper methysticum) is a member of the pepper family that is native to the South Pacific.  It is used to treat anxiety, insomnia and symptoms related to menopause.(1)  Unfortunately, in 2002 the health authorities in Germany, Switzerland, France, Canada, and United Kingdom reported cases of...