Kava for Generalized Anxiety Disorder: A Review of Current Evidence

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#anxiety-disorders #female #humans #kava #male

Kava for Generalized Anxiety Disorder: A Review of Current Evidence

Ooi et al., 2018 | J Altern Complement Med | Meta Analysis

Citation

Ooi Soo Liang, Henderson Penny, Pak Sok Cheon. Kava for Generalized Anxiety Disorder: A Review of Current Evidence. J Altern Complement Med. 2018-Aug;24(8):770-780. doi:10.1089/acm.2018.0001

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) is a chronic and debilitating condition characterized by persistent and overpowering anxiety. Treatment of GAD with antidepressants and benzodiazepines is only moderately effective and not free from side effects. Kava (Piper methysticum) has been explored as a potential phytotherapeutic option for GAD. OBJECTIVES: To perform a systematic review and meta-analysis of the available evidence on Kava as a treatment for GAD. METHODS: Systematic search of English-language publications from major databases for clinical trials reporting the effects of Kava for the treatment of GAD. RESULTS: Twelve articles were included in this review. Evidence supporting Kava as an effective treatment for GAD was found in two placebo-controlled trials and a reference-controlled trial. One negative trial demonstrated that Kava was not more effective than placebo. Meta-analyses of the results of three placebo-controlled trials (n = 130) favored Kava for GAD treatment with effect sizes between 0.59 and 0.99 (standard mean difference) without reaching statistical significance. Kava is an appealing treatment option to GAD patients who are more attune to natural remedies or lifestyle approaches to reduce stress. Positive patient experiences and improvement of vagal cardiac control due to Kava treatment were also reported in the literature. Kava is safe and well tolerated for short-term (4-8 weeks) therapeutic use at a dosage of 120-280 mg per day of Kavalactones, regardless of dosage schedule. CONCLUSIONS: Current evidence, although promising, is insufficient to confirm the effect of Kava for GAD treatment beyond placebo. New evidence is expected from a large, multisite ongoing trial.

Key Findings

Twelve articles were included in this review. Evidence supporting Kava as an effective treatment for GAD was found in two placebo-controlled trials and a reference-controlled trial. One negative trial demonstrated that Kava was not more effective than placebo. Meta-analyses of the results of three placebo-controlled trials (n = 130) favored Kava for GAD treatment with effect sizes between 0.59 and 0.99 (standard mean difference) without reaching statistical significance. Kava is an appealing tre

Outcomes Measured

  • anxiety

Population

Field Value
Population See abstract
Sample Size 130
Age Range See abstract
Condition anxiety

MeSH Terms

  • Anxiety Disorders
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Kava
  • Male
  • Phytotherapy
  • Plant Extracts

Evidence Classification

  • Level: Meta Analysis
  • Publication Types: Journal Article, Meta-Analysis, Systematic Review
  • Vertical: kava-anxiety

Provenance

Source extracted via PubMed E-utilities API on 2026-04-09