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Kava Acid Free Coffee
Kava acid free coffee is produced using an innovative process which reduces acid levels in instant coffee using potassium hydroxide.
Kava has long been recognized for its sleep-enhancing and anxiolytic effects in animal models, with chronic exposure in zebrafish upregulating microglial genes (iNOS, Egr-2, CD11b), astrocytic (C3 & C4) genes, as well as epigenetic genes.
Anxiolytic
Argentina boasts its beloved yerba mate tea, Japan offers matcha tea, and the South Pacific offers Kava (Piper methysticum rhizoma). Native to Micronesia, Fiji and Polynesia this plant is widely recognized as being effective against anxiety; even rivaling traditional anti-anxiety drugs like Xanax. Ceremonial drinks such as champagne are often served at key events like weddings, funerals and initiation ceremonies. Kava’s anxiolytic effects are due to its pyrones, such as kavain, dihydrokavain and methysticin which act as gamma-aminobutyric acid receptor agonists and inhibit the activation of neurons in the limbic system. Kava can serve as an excellent natural alternative to prescription anti-anxiety medication without having the negative side effects that alcohol or tobacco do.
However, it should be remembered that kava can cause liver damage in some individuals. A case series in Germany reported 29 patients experiencing hepatotoxicity from using kava between 1990 and 2002 ranging from mild cytolytic or cholestatic hepatitis to full-blown liver failure leading to death – three patients passed away and eight needed liver transplants, but most recovered fully once withdrawal took effect [20].
Reasons for Kava’s Hepatotoxicity appear to stem from how it is prepared; modern commercial preparations utilize alcohol or acetone extraction methods which may leave toxic substances behind. Poor-metabolizer genotypes of CYP2D6 could also contribute to its toxicity. Furthermore, some people who regularly consume kava may develop kava dermopathy – similar to psoriasis but reversible upon discontinuing use – which results in scaly skin lesions called Kava Dermopathy which regress after discontinuing consumption of Kava. This link between kava consumption and liver damage isn’t strong enough to warrant banning it altogether, but should serve as a reminder that herbal remedies should be monitored closely for safety concerns – particularly among older adults who may have reduced capacity to process drugs and supplements properly.
Immunomodulatory
Kava has been found to possess immunomodulatory properties and may help regulate immune responses. This may be the result of flavokawains and chalcones found in kava that interact with cytokines and immune cells to maintain overall body health and possibly decrease disease incidence in individuals.
Kava can provide a natural way of relieving anxiety, thanks to the presence of kavalactones that bind with neurotransmitter gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA). GABA blocks the release of acetylcholine which reduces anxiety levels significantly. Kava may also have sedative properties due to inhibition of GABA activity.
Kava has long been used in the Pacific islands for cultural and medicinal purposes. A member of Piper methysticum family, its effects can be found within its rhizomes; since becoming popular in Western countries as well as clinical research showing its efficacy for anxiety disorders.
Kava can offer more than anxiolytic and sedative properties; recent studies have also demonstrated its immunomodulatory capabilities to help prevent diseases. This makes kava an attractive alternative to conventional medicines that often come with harmful side effects or cause toxicity; plus its immune-enhancing capabilities are an alternative solution to antibiotics which have been linked with resistance among certain bacteria strains.
Sedative
Kava, an indigenous plant to the South Pacific region, has long been utilized as both a medicinal beverage and sedative. It is used to treat anxiety, insomnia, premenstrual syndrome and stress; and is available as both herbal remedy. A member of Piperaceae family containing pipermethystine alkaloid pipermethystine; flavokavain chalcone; norsesquiterpenoid dihydrokavain; and pyran tetrahydroyangonin are present – these chemicals interact with voltage-gated ion channels potentiate GABAA receptors potentiate GABAA receptors to modulate GABAA receptors. Reports indicate hepatotoxicity associated with using Kava.
An acute dose of Kava can produce noticeable sedation and increases monoamine concentrations in the brain while also decreasing whole-body cortisol levels. Studies using Danielio rerio as a model system demonstrate that Kavalactones exert strong neuroactive properties; however, their exact molecular targets remain unknown.
Kava may provide its sedative effects by binding to GABAA receptors, which inhibit neural excitation and prevent norepinephrine (fight or flight hormone) reuptake. A number of clinical trials have demonstrated its anxiolytic properties. However, some patients have experienced hepatotoxicity due to polypharmacy and poor-metabolizer phenotype of CYP2D6. One case involved a 33-year-old woman experiencing malaise, weight loss, jaundice and elevated liver enzymes after taking Kava extract for three weeks. She received hepatoprotective drugs and made a full recovery. According to the author, her symptoms could have been due to immunoallergic reactions caused by Kava extracts containing Tetrahydroyangonin. Other researchers suggest aqueous extracts may have less of an impact due to being extracted without organic solvents.
Muscle Relaxant
Kava, a non-alcoholic plant from the Pacific Islands, can be used to promote relaxation and alleviate stress. Its anxiolytic effects have been attributed to its ability to block GABA receptor activity in the brain, producing feelings of calmness and relaxation. Kavain, yangonin, dimethoxyyangonin and methysticin are all constituents of Kava that contribute anxiolytic properties – together they make Kava more effective at relieving anxiety than even the benzodiazepine diazepam!
Kava’s sedative effect can be attributed to its primary bioactive alkaloids, known as kavalactones. These bioactive alkaloids pass the blood-brain barrier and bind directly with GABA receptors in micromolar concentrations; furthermore they reduce action potential conductance in muscle cells thus decreasing muscle contractions and could even act as neuroprotective agents against oxidative damage to neurons.
Kava stands out as an alternative medicine that provides both pain relief and stimulation, but with more soothing effects. This may be attributed to its effect on GABA receptors instead of opioid ones; furthermore it regulates neurotransmitters like serotonin which is responsible for mood enhancing properties.
Kava has the unique ability to induce relaxation without interfering with mental clarity, which makes it a popular plant choice for managing stress and anxiety. Furthermore, its neuronal activity-suppressing qualities result in feelings of contentment and well-being; making kava an excellent option for people suffering from chronic stress or experiencing difficulty sleeping at night.
Mood Booster
Kava is an effective mood enhancer that promotes peace and tranquility, relieving tension in both body and mind. Derived from Piper methysticum roots, its use has long been utilized as an elixir throughout Pacific Islands society for centuries. Kavalactones found in Kava are responsible for its effects, binding with neurotransmitters such as GABA to calm brain activity and nervous systems alike.
Each Hempy Longstocking Mood Food gummy contains 30mg of an organic and fair trade kava kwik relaxation formula infused with natural mood-lifting ingredients like Damiana Leaf Extract. You can further boost its effects by mixing in one teaspoon of KAVAPLEX PREMIUM Kava oil into any Mood Food beverage; or adding a teaspoon to any beverage made using Hempy Longstockings that has an organic or fair trade component. These treats are certified Kosher for Kosher Kosher certification while being made organic & fair trade ingredients!