Choosing the best kava kava dosage may require a bit of time, but considering factors such as how the herb should be prepared and exactly what you hope to attain from its use may help. Kava kava is said to produce a strange combination of clarity and relaxation in the person drinking it. If consumed in large doses, kava kava can even produce effects similar to alcohol. If you are simply taking this herb to treat insomnia or anxiety, you may not wish to experience these intoxicating effects and should adjust the dosage accordingly.
Modern science has transformed the kava root into pill supplements. This makes kava kava more readily accessible to areas of the world where it does not grow and is generally more convenient than chewing the root or making a tea. Fresh or dried kava root, however, is typically more potent than a pill form. If possible, buying dried or fresh root is likely to help you find the right kava kava dosage more quickly.
Kava kava is generally made into a tea using anywhere from one to eight tablespoons (about 14 to 113 grams) of root per eight ounces (about 237 ml) of water. If taking this herb to treat temporary social anxiety, it is best to start off with one or two tablespoons per glass of water and drink it as needed. As a treatment for insomnia, two to three tablespoons of kava kava are fine to start with, and it should be consumed about 30 minutes before bed. If these doses do not seem to help, you can then increase the kava kava dosage by one tablespoon until you reach the dosage which works. This root can also be used to treat sore throats, with a mild dose of one tablespoon in eight ounces of water acting as a numbing agent.
Some studies have shown kava kava to have adverse effects if used heavily for a prolonged period of time. These include rash and puffy face. It has also been proven that kava kava may have severe reactions if used with certain medications, either prescribed or not. Speaking with a medical professional is a good idea before taking any kava kava dosage, and it should never be taken in conjunction with alcohol. Generally, it is also recommended that anyone taking more than two tablespoons of kava does not drive or operate any machinery. This root may produce the same effects even in pill form, and proper precautions should be taken.