Ñ I'm going
to start with a Nutritional Supplement
called Kava Kava. Eclectic Institute has generously offered a 15% discount
for any CompetitiveHorse visitor placing an order for any of their
Kava products.
Kava Kava-A Bad Rap
Recently, there has been quite a bit of negative news regarding the
potential for liver toxicity when using Kava products, which has led some
countries to institute a ban on all Kava products. However, it is documented
that when processed properly and used properly, Kava is extremely effective
and safe. The Kava Used in Nakamals
Nakamals are juice houses. Found in Vanuatu, the establishments serve
thousands of people fresh Kava juice beverages. These beverages are made by
soaking fresh ground Kava root in water. If fresh Kava is unavailable, the
beverage is made with dried Kava root soaked in water. Dr. Francis Brinker, N.D. points out "It is
important to understand that no association with liver damage has been
reported in the South Pacific islands where consumption of kava as a
beverage is an important aspect of the traditional culture"
The Kava Found to be Toxic
Kava products which are extracted using anything other than water can be
very toxic. Some solvents used include ethanol, alcohol or acetone. These
solvents may, or may not, be listed on the product label. Kava products
which extracted this way usually have the words "standardized" on the label
somewhere.
When Not to Use Kava
- Do not use Kava combined with recreational drugs or alcohol.
- If taking prescribed medicines,
click here to learn about
drug interactions. ALSO! check with a knowledgeable physician
(not necessarily the local emergency room doctor) AND educate yourself on
what can cause problems with your prescription medicines. DO NOT! Use any
herb without educating yourself.
Resources
- Eclectic Institute
- Eclectic Medical Publications
- Herb Contraindications and Drug Interactions, Francis J.
Brinker, N.D.
- Interaction Between Drugs & Natural Medicines, Chris Meletis,
N.D.
Articles
Kava, Historically Safe "As A Water
Extract"
Kava Extracts and Liver Toxicity
Kava Conference Sees Export Opportunities
Fiji Industry Spokesman Says Britain,
Europe Out To Discredit Kava
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In My Opinion
Why Kava Kava Makes Sense
For 10 years, I was the Managing Editor of a company which published independent research of
Botanical Preparations. In this capacity, I was exposed to much
research on the pros and cons of using herbs.
As my lessons were learned by gleaning the original texts used by
physicians in the early 1800's to early 1900 period, I tend to favor the use
of herbs over drugs.
In 1997, my friend, Ed Alstat, R.Ph., N.D the owner of Eclectic
Institute, had traveled to Fiji to experience an indigenous culture's
tradition of drinking a "juice" made from the herb, Kava Kava (Piper
Methysticum).
Many claims were being made about its natural nervine properties...the
ability to calm the effects of anxiety (fear).
The next year, I began the process of learning to Event. My fear would
get in my way of progress. I contacted Dr. Alstat and asked to try his Kava
Kava products.
This is how I became "hooked" on Kava.
Today, I use an Eclectic Institute Kava product 45 minutes prior to every
jump schooling or competition. I do
not use it on a daily basis.
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