With all the different plant medicines out there today, it can be hard to tell them all apart. This is especially true for those that have different names for the same thing. And then, of course, different plants are used for similar things. This is the case with ashwagandha and kava.
While the two are both roots and used for similar things, they are definitely different and should be taken with that in mind.
What is kava?
Kava comes from the pepper plant, Piper methysticum, grown in the Pacific islands. It’s known for its relaxing, social, and clarifying effects. First discovered in Vanuatu it’s also grown in Fiji, Tonga, Hawa’ii, Samoa, Papua New Guinea, Micronesia, and French Polynesia. While the kava itself is the same, the active ingredients called kavalactones differ, giving each plant slightly different effects. The kavalactones are responsible for kava’s effects and strength. Different kavalactones have varied effects; some give off mental sensations like relaxation, calmness, and sociability, while others primarily affect the body, causing heaviness and tiredness.
Kava is traditionally drunk as a tea-like drink made from the root of the plant. Once grown to maturity, the kava plant is harvested and the roots separated and dried. The dried roots are ground into a fine power that is steeped in water to make the earthy beverage.
Kava has a long history that goes back more than 3000 years and is one of the most coveted traditions in Pacific islander culture. In ancient times, kava was used for medical treatments for pain, relaxing muscles, calming nerves, reducing anxiety, and helping with sleep disorders. More importantly, to island cultures, kava is a critical aspect in a variety of ceremonies and rituals to honor chiefs, guests, and other community members.
Nowadays, kava can be found all over the world, however some countries still monitor its use due to a false accusation that it causes liver damage that is just now being cleared. Kava bars have popped up in parts of the US to spread the benefits of kava to those outside of the Pacific islands. You can even find it as tinctures and supplements in many health food stores. However, these should be taken with caution as their added ingredients can have potentially negative side effects and impact your experience.
What is ashwagandha?
Ashwagandha is an evergreen shrub that grows in parts of India, Africa, and the Middle East. Scientifically called Withania somnifera, it also goes by the names Indian ginseng and winter cherry. Ashwagandha has been used in traditional Indian Ayurvedic medicine for over 6,000 years. Its primary role has been as a Rasayana, or an approach to lengthening lifespans and invigorating the body.
The plant’s root is said to hold the most medicinal power. However, the flowers, leaves, and seeds all also have medicinal properties. The most common use is taking the dried root powder mixed in water, honey or ghee (clarified butter is common in India) or in a capsule. It can also be taken as an extract or tincture.
Traditionally, it’s been used for a variety of conditions, including increasing libido, sleep aid, boosting energy, rheumatism, nervousness, releasing fluid buildup, and constipation. When mixed with milk, it’s an essential tonic for undernourished children. It can also be used topically to reduce swelling, skin ulcers, and carbuncles.
Recently, ashwagandha has been used for mental health-related conditions like anxiety, stress, sleep, and cognition. It’s used as an adaptogen, which helps support the body in managing different forms of stress. It’s rich in phytochemicals, such as anolides and alkaloids, which are linked to many anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. This is why ashwagandha and kava are often confused; they can help with similar things like anxiety.
The takeaway of ashwagandha and kava
As you can see, it’s easy to get these two plants confused. Their similar medicinal uses, ancient traditions and even preparations are uncanny. When choosing between them, it’s crucial to consider your specific health needs and goals.
The biggest difference between these two is that kava is psychoactive, whereas ashwagandha is not. You don’t get the same uplifting, social feelings nor the tingling sensation in your mouth when you take ashwagandha.
Both Ashwagandha and kava help support anxiety by reducing symptoms through the GABA neurotransmitter system, but the approach is different. Kava is typically enjoyed as a social beverage, often taken with friends and family due to its significant cultural meaning in the islands. Ashwagandha is typically used for medicinal purposes, being taken at the same time every day to manage stress, anxiety and other symptoms.
Remember, the journey to wellness is personal, and what works for one may not work for another—understanding how Ashwagandha and kava work can enhance your health and overall experience. Embrace the journey and choose the path that aligns best with your health journey.
* Please note that the majority of kava research pertains to kava extracts, which often undergo significant processing and may contain additional ingredients and fillers that can influence their efficacy. It is crucial to consider this distinction when reading about kava studies. To draw an analogy, enjoying natural kava as a beverage can be likened to experiencing a freshly brewed cappuccino, whereas kava extracts are akin in functionality to a caffeine pill. Both forms have their unique benefits and can cater to different preferences and needs. While it’s helpful to understand research on kava extracts, please view it critically and remember that natural kava offers a uniquely holistic experience.
