Kawa kawa, scientific name Piper methysticum , is a plant native to the islands of Oceania (Polynesia, Indonesia and Melanesia), also known by other names such as cava cava, awa-irai, kawa and others.
It is a plant widely used and consumed in the form of a “milk” extracted from its rhizome, and it contributes a lot to the economy and social life of the Pacific islands. Kawa kawa has several very efficient medicinal properties and, as it is easy to grow, it can be planted in the home garden, as well as other medicinal herbs.
Index
The medicinal properties of kawa kawa
The most common medicinal property of kawa kawa is calming and/or sedative, due to the presence of Waka, a bone and muscle relaxant that calms the entire central nervous system. Among the medicinal properties of this plant, we can highlight the following:
- Anxiolytic;
- Spasmolytic;
- Soothing;
- Anticonvulsant;
- Analgesic;
- Antiseptic;
- Sedative;
- Tranquilizer.
Benefits and indications for use
The kawa kawa plant is indicated for the treatment of anxiety (generalized anxiety disorder), stress, sleep disorders (insomnia), epilepsy, menopause, premenstrual syndromes and arthritis, in addition to acting as a muscle relaxant.
The plant is excellent in the treatment of insomnia, as it improves the quality of sleep, with an increase in the phases of deep sleep and tends to reduce the phase of falling asleep and light sleep.
How to prepare kawa kawa tea?
First, separate the cut, ground, dry or fresh root or stem, depending on your preference. The most suitable is in powder form, because it absorbs directly in water.
Add two tablespoons of kawa kawa powder to a coffee strainer or similar filter. Then immerse this filter in a full cup of cold water, letting the water absorb all the powder. After that, remove the filter. The indication for consumption of this tea is a maximum of three times a day.
Precautions and contraindications
It is necessary to be very careful with the correct dosage of the plant, because in excess, it can cause some disturbance by moving the entire central nervous system. The use of the plant is contraindicated during pregnancy, breastfeeding, depression and liver disease. Always remember the importance of consulting a doctor before starting any type of treatment.
