Last reviewed 2026-04-22 · How we verify

Kava

Kava contains kavalactones that modulate neurotransmitter activity and may have anxiolytic and anti-inflammatory properties.

Kava contains kavalactones that modulate neurotransmitter activity and may have anxiolytic and anti-inflammatory properties. Used for Anxiety and stress management in cancer patients (supportive care).

At a glance

Mechanism of action

Kava is a plant-derived herbal preparation whose active constituents (kavalactones) interact with multiple neurological pathways, including GABA receptors and monoamine systems, producing sedative and anxiolytic effects. The exact mechanism remains incompletely characterized, but kavalactones appear to enhance GABAergic neurotransmission and modulate dopamine and serotonin signaling. In the context of cancer care, kava has been studied for potential supportive use in managing anxiety and stress-related symptoms in cancer patients.

Approved indications

• Anxiety and stress management in cancer patients (supportive care)

Common side effects

• Hepatotoxicity
• Gastrointestinal upset
• Headache
• Dizziness

Key clinical trials

• Effects of Feel Free® Classic Tonic on Stress and Pharmacokinetics in Healthy Adults (NA)
• A Study of Oral Kavalactones Effect on Nurses (NA)
• Reducing Tobacco-associated Lung Cancer Risk: A Randomized Clinical Trial of AB-free Kava (PHASE2)
• Effect of Kava on Anxiety and Stress in Cancer Survivors (EARLY_PHASE1)
• Kava Aging and Mobility Study (EARLY_PHASE1)
• The Potential of Kava in Enabling Tobacco Cessation - Its Holistic Effects in Managing Stress and Insomnia Associated With Abstinence (PHASE2)
• Biomarker Changes and Anxiolytic Effects-Phase 2 (PHASE2)
• Dengue Controlled Human Infection Model in Dhaka, Bangladesh (PHASE2)

Primary sources

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