With anxiety on the rise many people are looking for natural treatments to help alleviate symptoms. L-Theanine and Kava Kava are two supplements that show a lot of promise in giving sufferers relief without pharmaceutical intervention. Not only are these used for home use, they are also gaining headway in the social scene on the west coast.
L-Theanine: The Relaxation Amino Acid
Black tea is rich in L-theanine, an amino acid that helps promote the release of alpha brain waves which are linked to both physical and emotional relaxation. Research studies have associated L-theanine with a reduction in both psychologically and physiologically stress responses, easing the symptoms of anxiety. How can you enjoy these benefits today? Enjoy brewing up your favorite green or black tea. A longer brew time of black tea can yield about 27mg of L-theanine and green tea about 7mg. A therapeutic dose is about 200mg daily and can be taken as a supplement away from food for the best result.
Kava Kava: An ancient root that promotes euphoria
Known as the “root of happiness” Kava Kava is a root used ceremonially in Pacific Ocean cultures. Traditionally it’s prepared by grinding the root and mixing with water. Kava has sedative, euphoriant, and entheogenic properties when ingested and anesthetic properties when applied topically. Typically kava is prepared as tea, and also comes as a powder, capsule or paste. Studies have shown it can provide significant relief from anxiety .
Kava usage guidelines
- Liver toxicity – there has been some debate over the years of the safety of Kava and liver toxicity. However the root has been ingested in indigenous communities for over 1500 years with no indication of liver toxicity and recent review and research has established that ingestion of Kava is not linked to liver toxicity or long term liver damage. I recommend consuming Kava in the traditional prepared form- as tea, powder or capsule, not as a tincture or alcohol extraction.
- Alcohol – Kava kava should not be used with alcohol. It also should not be taken by individuals with a history of alcoholism.
- Purity – Be sure the kava product you are taking contains only kava root.
- Other medications – Let your healthcare provider know about all medications you are taking to ensure there are no drug interaction risks.
Kava Bars: The New West Coast Craze
Kava Kava has become extremely trendy on the west coast – so much so that “kava bars” are popping up everywhere. MeloMelo in Berkeley is the bay area’s first exclusive kava kava bar and provides its patrons a place to get together and enjoy the incredible effects of the miracle root. Kava Lounge SF is a kava bar in the San Francisco area offering the same euphoric effects. Instead of hitting the club, skip the alcohol and try a Kava lounge for an amazing time.
It is important to work with a healthcare provider who can give you proper dosage and usage instructions when using any type of supplement. Contact Dr. Escobedo at Wild Women Wellness to discuss your health needs.