How Kava Kava Helps Some People Wind Down

The interesting thing about the age in which we live is that people want to get wound up and then need help winding down.

We’re always fighting for extra energy, so we take things to keep us energized.

Then, when our hormones are firing signals to get us to “go, go, go,” bedtime rolls around, and we struggle to get to a place where we can relax.

Many people have a nightcap to fall asleep.

Others try supplements like melatonin, valerian root, 5-HTP, etc. to calm down.

While supplements aren’t a bad thing, I will say a reliance on alcohol to fall asleep is.

Alcohol before bed does not introduce a restful night’s sleep. It disrupts it.

Which is why I’ve been writing more and more about avoiding alcohol.

But people still may need help winding down, so I am writing about kava kava.

I think kava kava may be something some people enjoy using to get themselves ready for bed, and I’ll show you why.

What is Kava Kava Good For (and where did it come from?)

Kava kava isn’t anything new.

In fact, for centuries, the people of the South Pacific have turned to kava kava — a plant native to islands like Vanuatu, Fiji, and Tonga — as a natural way to promote relaxation, connection, and ceremonial unity. 

The aspects of connection and ceremonial unity are interesting, but clearly, they used it because it did something.

The traditional way they prepared it was to take the root of the kava kava plant, grind it, and then brew it so it could be shared in social gatherings and rituals, bringing peace, conversation, and spiritual connection.

And I’d be remiss to tell you that the name “kava” comes from the Polynesian word for "bitter," referring to the earthy taste of its brew.

So this certainly isn’t going to be something that you start to use because it tastes great.

Over the past couple of decades, kava kava has found its way into the mainstream wellness scene in the United States.

Most of that has to do with the growing interest in natural stress-relief alternatives and herbal remedies.

While kava has gained traction not only as a supplement, it really got its start when people in cities started opening kava bars. These relaxed environments mimic the social nature of traditional kava ceremonies, offering an alcohol-free option for people to unwind and socialize.

Today, the mainstream market offers kava in a variety of forms, including capsules, tinctures, teas, and even ready-to-drink beverages.

That means for consumers who are looking for something to replace alcohol, it’s more accessible than ever.

But now let’s get into what it does.

5 Benefits of Kava Kava

Here’s the thing.

If you’re willing to subject yourself to taking a “bitter root,” whether in a tea, tincture, or supplement, there better be some good reasons why, am I right?

There are some good reasons to consider using kava kava, which I discuss below:

1 -  Natural Stress and Anxiety Relief:

Kava is most celebrated for its anxiolytic (anxiety-reducing) effects. Which is probably the #1 reason people turn to it.

Studies have shown that kava extracts can help alleviate symptoms of generalized anxiety disorder without the sedative drawbacks of pharmaceutical options.

Its active compounds, called kavalactones, interact with brain receptors associated with mood regulation, promoting a sense of calm and well-being.

Unlike alcohol, which acts as a general central nervous system depressant, kava selectively promotes relaxation and relief from anxiety without significant impairment of mental clarity or motor function. Studies show that kava can help ease symptoms of generalized anxiety disorder without causing the kind of cognitive fog, slurred speech, or loss of coordination associated with alcohol.

Another benefit is that, unlike alcohol’s sedative effects that often come with unwanted aftereffects like hangovers, dehydration, or irritability, kava is non-addictive and typically does not lead to hangover-like symptoms when used in moderation.

Kava users often report feeling calm and clear-headed, rather than "buzzed" or drowsy.

2 - Supports Better Sleep Quality:

Like I mentioned, a lot of people depend on alcohol to get to sleep.

Which isn’t a great idea since it doesn’t help you get a good night's rest.

Research suggests that kava can improve sleep latency and quality, especially for individuals struggling with anxiety-related insomnia.

Unlike many over-the-counter sleep aids, kava works to relax the mind without heavy grogginess upon waking.

Kava’s kavalactones help calm overactive nervous system activity by interacting with GABA receptors in the brain — the same system targeted by many anti-anxiety medications and sleep aids (source).

And unlike pharmaceutical sedatives, kava doesn’t knock you out or heavily sedate you.

Instead, it gently reduces the mental chatter that can keep you awake at night, making it easier to drift off naturally.

It can also help with relaxation, as it has mild muscle relaxant properties, helping the body unwind physically. This can be particularly helpful if you experience physical restlessness or tightness at bedtime.

3 -  Muscle Relaxation:

Which brings us to the next benefit.

Kava’s kavalactones soothe the mind and help ease physical tension. It has been traditionally used for its muscle-relaxant properties, making it a popular choice among those seeking relief from mild physical discomfort or tension headaches.

I’ve written at length about the danger of other painkillers, so this might help you.

Combine it with some magnesium and turmeric; it may work wonders.

4 - Potential Neuroprotective Effects:

Emerging research suggests that kava's active compounds, particularly kavalactones, may offer neuroprotective benefits by combating oxidative stress and supporting neuronal health.

As you may know, oxidative stress likely plays a role in the aging process and the development of various neurodegenerative conditions, such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease.

By neutralizing harmful free radicals, kava may contribute to the preservation of cognitive function and overall brain health.

While these studies are still in their early stages, they open promising avenues for further exploration into how kava could support long-term cognitive wellness and healthy aging.

5 - Alcohol-Free Social Relaxation:

More and more people are checking out the "sober-curious" lifestyle.

Which means mostly not drinking.

And Kava is a good choice for some of these people.

Unlike alcohol, which impairs cognitive function and can lead to next-day grogginess, kava promotes a sense of calm and sociability without clouding mental clarity.

This makes it especially appealing in social settings, where people want to unwind and connect while maintaining full control of their faculties.

At the beginning of the article, I talked about Kava bars, modeled after traditional Pacific Island gatherings, popping up in cities all over the US.

Part of their appeal is that they offer a laid-back, communal atmosphere where people can enjoy kava together—no hangover required.

Anything Else to Know about Kava

While kava kava offers compelling benefits, it’s important to use it responsibly. Excessive or long-term use has been linked to potential liver health concerns, the same way that alcohol has.

It's also important to choose high-quality, noble kava products (organic, fair-trade, etc.) to ensure you’re getting what you’re paying for.

Of course, before using any supplement, you should consult with a healthcare professional if you have any pre-existing health conditions or concerns.