Kava is not an opioid, but that doesn’t mean it’s free of risks. Kava is a psychoactive herbal substance that affects the brain.

While kava is plant-based and legal, for people recovering from opioid use disorder (OUD), it raises important safety concerns that shouldn’t be ignored. If you’re in recovery, it’s essential to understand how kava works and how it may affect your progress.

Kava in the Past and Present

Kava comes from the root of the Piper methysticum plant, a shrub that’s native to the South Pacific Islands. Kava has been used for centuries in traditional ceremonies and social gatherings. Traditionally, the root was ground up and soaked in water to make a kava drink.

During the 1980s, kava was brought to northern Australia. There, it was seen as an alcohol replacement, meant to reduce harm associated with alcohol use.

Today, it’s sold as a supplement. It’s often marketed to treat conditions like insomnia and anxiety. You may find it in teas, capsules, or extracts in your local pharmacy or health food store.

What’s the Difference Between Kava and Opioids?

Kava and opioids belong to very different drug classes. They affect the brain in different ways but may carry some overlapping risks.

Drug Class

Kava is a dietary supplement. Unlike opioids, it’s not classified as a controlled substance.

Opioids are a class of drugs that include prescription pain medications such as oxycodone and hydrocodone. You need a prescription to get opioids, so having them without one is illegal.

Effects

Kava is a depressant, meaning it’s a type of substance that slows down signals between the body and brain. Kava is commonly used as:

• An anxiety or stress reduction treatment
• A muscle relaxant
• A sleep aid

Opioids bind to opioid receptors in the brain and body. They reduce pain but can also cause strong feelings of euphoria. Like kava, opioids may slow breathing and cause drowsiness.

However, opioids can cause addiction and dependence. With continued use, the body requires higher doses of opioids to get the same effects. Stopping suddenly can lead to unpleasant withdrawal symptoms.

Dependence isn’t likely with kava.

Why Kava May Appeal to People With OUD

The symptoms of opioid withdrawal can be uncomfortable and difficult to manage. Many people search for natural remedies to feel better.

It’s not surprising that people with OUD may interested in taking kava as a supplement. Common issues associated with opioid withdrawal, such as insomnia, anxiety, and muscle aches, are just what kava is marketed to treat.

Some people are drawn to kava because it’s sold over the counter. It’s legal and doesn’t require a prescription. Others may believe that herbal products are safer than medications.

Because of the calming effects of kava, it can seem like a helpful way to relax without using opioids. But it’s not necessarily the best option. Instead, your healthcare provider can recommend treatments that are shown to help with specific withdrawal symptoms.

Drawbacks of Kava Use

Substituting one mind-altering substance for another can be complicated, especially in recovery. Even mild psychoactive effects can trigger old habits or thought patterns. For some people, using kava may increase the risk of relapse.

In addition, recovery often involves learning new ways to cope with stress that don’t rely on substances. Turning to kava instead of building those skills may prevent you from making this type of progress.

Key Safety Concerns

If you’re considering kava, you should know about its potential risks first.

Sedation

Kava may cause sedation and impaired thinking or coordination. This can make it unsafe to drive or operate machinery. It may also increase the risk of falls or accidents, especially if you’re already tired, sleep-deprived, or taking other medications.

Interactions

Kava can also interact with alcohol or other sedating medications. Combining these substances can increase drowsiness and cause slow reaction times. In severe cases, it may affect breathing.

Liver Toxicity

Scientists have some concerns about liver toxicity with some kava products. There have been reports of serious liver injury linked to kava use, including hepatitis and liver disease.

Regulation Concerns

Another issue is the lack of regulation of kava. In the United States, dietary supplements are not regulated as strictly as prescription medications.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) will act when someone experiences negative side effects or health problems after using natural products. But they aren’t responsible for approving these products as safe or effective before they’re sold in stores.

This means that the strength and purity of kava products can vary. Some may contain contaminants or different amounts of active compounds than what is listed on the label.

Unknown Effects

While opioids have a well-established risk of dependence and withdrawal, the science on kava isn’t as clear. Nonetheless, heavy or prolonged use may still cause problems.

Kava’s effects may vary from person to person. Factors such as your weight or the product’s manufacturing process can impact its potency.

Low doses may be safer, but it’s hard to know the exact dose in unregulated dietary supplements. Ultimately, there’s not enough research to determine how kava supplements may impact users.

Ask Your Healthcare Provider

Don’t use kava products without first talking to your doctor or recovery team. This is especially true if you are pregnant, taking medications, or having liver problems.

Before trying kava, ask your healthcare providers how it might impact your overall health and recovery.

Join the Conversation

On MyOpioidRecoveryTeam, people share their experiences with opioid use disorder, get advice, and find support from others who understand.

What are your thoughts about kava use? Let others know in the comments below.