Positive Health Online

Abstract

STEINER, ggsteiner@yahoo.com, supplies preliminary data on Kava as an anti-craving agent .

Background

In the effort to reduce the incidence of drug and alcohol abuse, an important area of research is the chemistry of craving . The active ingredients found in kava, known as kavapyrones, have been shown to bind to many sites in the brain that are associated with craving.

Methodology

Pilot study where cravings for alcohol, tobacco, cocaine, and heroin were surveyed .

Results

Preliminary results suggest that kava may reduce the cravings associated with addiction. Reduced craving for their drug of choice was reported by participants. In another part of the study, a standardized amount of kavapyrones led to a difference in alcohol abstinence between experimental and placebo groups.

Conclusion

If these findings are confirmed in larger and more systematic studies, kava may become a useful component in the treatment of addictions .

References

Steiner GG. Kava as an anticraving agent: preliminary data. Pacific Health Dialog 8(2): 335-339, Sep 2001.