The Wire

Kava is a plant that is traditionally used by Pacific Island communities to promote calmness and well being. And while people from across the world have also enjoyed the therapeutic effects of Kava, a cloud has been cast over its safety due to claims of high liver toxicity. Due to this Kava is now banned Europe, the UK and Canada. But new research from the University of Queensland is adding to a growing chorus of voices suggesting that, if it is prepared correctly, Kava is non toxic and very effective at alleviating symptoms of anxiety and depression.