Kava Kava, Our Favorite Pepper: Re: Kava kava

» mastiffs2005 - Re: Kava kava

In response to message posted by Goodelyfe:

Thank you for sharing your valuable and informative insight into this herb. I do agree that in the case of tradition, it would be a sad loss to the people who use this the way you describe. It would be horrible for it to be lost to them.

For those of us who are not native to Fiji, I do not feel that we lose anything in the translation to the way we use the herb. It is not a part of most of our own traditions, and we shouldn't feel that it has to be if we have found a place to use it effectively for our own benefits... sleep is vital to all of us, after all... and I myself have seen the benefits for relaxation and would not feel comfortable using it in ceremony on a regular basis. To me to do that, without being from Fiji and knowing its culture and traditions, it would be wrong for me to consume it that way.

I have read about the snake skin, and I have not had any experience with that in the form of tablets. I agree that the tablet form is a lot less potent, and that is probably a good thing I have heard that the "tea" concoction of kava kava is quite strong. Its benefits should not be lost to us simply because we use it differently than those in Fiji.

Also, ANY herbs OR synthetic medicines used for relaxation can cause impotence or lack of sexual drive in men. The same goes for depressants like alcohol. It does sound to me a little like the Fijians enjoy the kava drink much like we enjoy a nice, cold beer LOL Though I may be wrong not being as familiar as you about the culture.

And of course, ANYthing that is used for its healing qualities should be taken under the direction of a physician or certified herbalist, along with a good dose of common sense and knowledge of self. Just because I have had a wonderful experience with this herb doesn't mean that it will be as effective with everyone.

Thanks again for your input! Your shared information will certainly help make us all better-informed should we decide to use this herb in our individual healing.

Love & Hugs,
Darlene

-- posted by mastiffs2005