Common kava side effects
- Numb or tingly mouth (normal, and fades quickly)
- Mild nausea or upset stomach, especially on an empty stomach
- Drowsiness
- With heavy long-term use: dry, scaly skin known as kava dermopathy, which usually goes away after cutting back
Kava and the liver
In the early 2000s, reports of liver injury, mostly tied to concentrated kava supplements, led the FDA to issue a consumer advisory in 2002 and some countries to restrict kava for a while. Later reviews, including a World Health Organization report, recommended noble kava root prepared with water. Serious problems are considered rare, but they're why we always say: if you have a liver condition, ask your doctor first. More in kava vs alcohol.
Why kava was banned in some places
Germany and a few other countries restricted kava sales in the early 2000s after the liver reports. Germany's ban was later overturned in court. Kava is legal in the US.
Who should avoid kava
- Pregnant or breastfeeding people
- Anyone with liver disease or who drinks alcohol heavily
- People taking medications that affect the liver or cause drowsiness (ask your doctor)
- Anyone under 18 (our house rule)
Tips if you drink kava often
Take breaks, keep it moderate, drink water, eat well, and pay attention to your skin and energy. If something feels off, stop and see your doctor.
People also ask
Is it safe to drink kava every day?
Many people drink kava regularly, but heavy daily use can cause side effects like dry skin and fatigue. Moderation and breaks are smart. Ask your doctor about your situation.
Can kava cause nausea?
Yes, some people feel mild nausea, especially on an empty stomach or with strong kava.
Is kava bad for your liver?
Serious liver injury is considered rare and was mostly linked to supplements and extracts. If you have liver problems, talk to your doctor first.
Why is kava banned in some countries?
Several countries restricted kava in the early 2000s after liver injury reports. Some, like Germany, later reversed it. Kava is legal in the US.
Visit us in Jacksonville
Questions about what's in your shell? Our kava is lab-tested. Ask any kava tender at San Marco, Mandarin or Jax Beach.
Kava & Company San Marco
1224 Kings Ave
Jacksonville, FL 32207
(904) 551-3809
Sun-Tue 9am-12am · Wed-Sat 9am-2am
Kava & Company Mandarin
11018 Old St Augustine Rd, Ste 123
Jacksonville, FL 32257
(904) 900-3606
Daily 10am-10pm
Kava & Company Jax Beach
223 9th Ave S
Jacksonville Beach, FL 32250
(904) 595-5150
Sun-Wed 9am-12am · Thu-Sat 9am-2am
This article is for general education only and isn't medical or legal advice. Statements about kava, kratom and kanna have not been evaluated by the FDA, and these products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. Kava & Company serves kava to guests 18+. Florida law requires buyers of kratom to be 21+.