Kava in the treatment of generalized anxiety disorder: a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled study
Key Finding
Kava extract significantly reduced anxiety symptoms by 26% in generalized anxiety disorder patients over 6 weeks.
Plain-English Summary
This randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial investigated kava extract for generalized anxiety disorder in 75 adults. Participants received standardized kava extract (120-240mg kavalactones) or placebo for 6 weeks.
The kava group showed significant reductions in anxiety symptoms as measured by the Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale. By week 6, anxiety scores had decreased by 26.4% in the kava group compared to 5.8% in placebo. Effects were noticeable from week 2 onwards.
Kava was particularly effective for moderate to severe anxiety. The supplement was well-tolerated with no significant liver enzyme changes, addressing previous safety concerns when pharmaceutical-grade kava is used. Kava appears to work through modulation of GABA receptors and other neurotransmitter systems. The study provides strong evidence for kava as an effective treatment for clinical anxiety without the dependence risks of benzodiazepines.