Kava Coalition Supports Forthcoming Kava Monograph, Therapeutic Compendium

Kava Coalition is pleased to announce its support and funding for an upcoming review by the American Herbal Pharmacopoeia (AHP) focusing on the safety profile and therapeutic potential of traditional aqueous kava and modern kava extracts. This comprehensive review, based on the collaborative research efforts of kava experts globally, will culminate in the production of a monograph and therapeutic compendium. These resources aim to address historical concerns surrounding kava use and provide valuable guidance to kava producers, regulators, healthcare practitioners, and consumers on best practices to ensure quality and minimize risks associated with kava consumption.

Kava (Piper methysticum) is a botanical native to the Pacific Islands, where it has been used for centuries in traditional ceremony and to elevate mood and produce a feeling of relaxation.

"It is unfortunate that misconceptions surrounding kava have impeded its recognition and acceptance despite centuries of safe traditional use and a wealth of contemporary scientific evidence supporting its safety and efficacy," said Matthew Lowe, Executive Director of the Kava Coalition.

Kava faced regulatory challenges in the early 2000’s due to concerns over its safety, particularly regarding liver health which still clouds the facts about traditional aqueous kava and modern kava extracts today. However, emerging research has challenged these assertions, suggesting that any reported instances of adverse effects are either extremely rare or related to other factors such as adulteration or improper use.

"The extensive body of evidence now available unequivocally demonstrates the safety of kava for the general population when used responsibly," said Roy Upton, Founder and President of AHP. "The forthcoming monograph and therapeutic compendium by AHP will provide a valuable resource for dispelling myths and promoting evidence-based understanding of kava’s safety and therapeutic potential."

The Kava Coalition is committed to advocating for the dissemination and utilization of AHP's forthcoming resources upon their release, aiming to foster informed decision-making and responsible use of kava worldwide.

The Kava Coalition is an alliance of kava consumers, experts, and industry leaders committed to advancing kava education, advocacy, and choice. Through educational initiatives and community engagement, KC promotes awareness and appreciation for kava’s traditional practices and cultural significance. Simultaneously, the Kava Coalition advocates for modern regulation that reflects current scientific knowledge, ensuring consumer safety and product integrity.

 

AHP was founded in 1995 to promote the responsible use of herbal medicines and ensure they are used with the highest possible degree of efficacy and safety. This is done primarily through the development of standards of identity, purity, and analysis for botanicals, as well as by critically reviewing traditional and scientific data regarding their efficacy and safety. AHP’s qualitative and therapeutic monographs represent some of the most comprehensive and critically reviewed body of information on herbal medicines in the English language, and serve as a primary reference for academics, health practitioners, manufacturers, and regulators.

Matthew Lowe
Executive Director, Kava Coalition
+1 916-202-1982