Here’s a cool fast treat. Try Your Favorite Cookies and Ice Cream with a sprinkling of the Finest Kava Powder that you can find (hint see http://www.betterlivingusa.com). Scoop out a generous portion of Cookies/Ice Cream (either in bowl or glass), then add a 1/2 teaspoon of Kava Powder by sprinkling over. Now Spoon up and Enjoy both a Cool and Relaxing Treat!!

Here’s a Nice Treat for those of you who like to try different Kava Recipes and Drinks.

Start with a glass of milk, add 1/2 teaspoon of the Best Kava Powder (hint: see http://betterlivingusa.com), stir vigorously to blend well, add a dash of Cinnamon spice, stir vigorously and quirt in a bit of Honey.

Stir vigorously or use blender to mix well. Now You’re Ready for an Pleasant Treat for those who might not be quite ready for the raw goodness of traditional Kava drinking.

Here’s to the Lighter Side!!

The Tropical Fruit with
101 Medicinal Uses

NONI
j u i c e

Neil Solomon M.D., Ph.D.
New York Times Best Selling Author
Former CNN-TV Health Commentator
Maryland’s First Secretary of Health
and Mental Hygiene
Johns Hopkins-Trained Physician

Preface

Since 1997 I have researched the scientific evidence and field studies involving the island fruit noni to uncover its secrets as a medicinal agent. I logged many hours digging through case studies and reports from doctors and other experts, and analyzed reports from an array of clinical trials. I also interviewed more than 50 doctors and other health professionals who had compiled data that collectively represented over 10,000 people who had used or were using noni.
As I was collecting these data, one of the questions I continually came back to was: “How can noni possibly help so many people with so many diverse health problems? What was its secret?” I concluded that, indeed, it does not help everyone…and it does not help with all health problems. However, on an average, 78 percent of the more than 10,000 noni users in our survey reported that it helped in some way, including fighting cancer, heart disease, digestive disorders, diabetes, autoimmune disorders, stroke, weight problems, and skin and hair problems. This booklet provides an overview of my findings.

Introduction

Noni (Morinda citrifolia) is a fruit with extraordinary healing properties that most North Americans have never heard of. It’s been successfully used for over 2,000 years in Polynesia, China, India and elsewhere. Noni migrated with the inhabitants to the South Pacific islands, Tahiti, Hawaii, Malaysia…and grows best wherever there is pollution-free volcanic soil. Like aloe vera, kelp, papaya, Pycnogenol and other botanicals, the extract of the noni plant has been demonstrated to improve a wide variety of health conditions.
For use in the United States, the noni fruit is prepared primarily as a food supplement in juice form. Although the fruit is very bitter and has an adverse odor, the noni juice supplement is very palatable in taste and smell because of the addition of natural grape and blueberry juices…a special blend formulated by two prominent food chemists, Stephen Story and John Wadsworth.

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Webmasters comment: Noni fruit powder sold on this web site contains no flavors or preservatives of any kind and is cold processed (no pasteurization) to preserve all the enzymes, vitamins and nutrients.

To perform a meta-analysis, researchers select the best of available clinical trials, then review and combine the results, allowing them to draw conclusions with more confidence than would be possible from isolated studies. For a meta-analysis of trials on kava (Piper methysticum G. Forster., Piperaceae), researchers at the University of Exeter, UK, selected three out of 14 double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trials (Pittler et al., 2000). Their results help confirm the validity of the individual kava studies: Compared with placebo, kava extract is an efficacious treatment for anxiety. The three trials were selected based on their use of the same outcome measurement (the standard Hamilton Rating Scale for Anxiety, or HAM-A) and inclusion criteria (a baseline HAM-A score of 19 or higher), as well as the type and dosage of the kava preparation tested (300 mg/day of extract standardized to deliver a total daily dose of 70 percent kavapyrones, i.e., 210 mg). All three trials utilized the same kava extract, WS 1490 (Laitan®, manufactured by W. Schwabe, Karlsruhe, Germany). Results of the meta-analysis demonstrated a significant reduction in anxiety scores as measured by the HAM-A. The scientists noted that these findings are supported by the results of the largest randomized clinical trial in their database (Volz et al., 1997), and that the results were similar to those of kava clinical research in general. Patients in the three studies took 100 mg three times daily of kava extract for up to 24 weeks, and analysis suggested a “significant reduction in the HAM-A total score of approximately 10 points in favor of kava extract.” In none of the studies did placebo rate higher than kava in reducing anxiety.

According to U.S statistics, around 17 percent of the population experiences anxiety disorders in any one year, and the lifetime prevalence is almost 25 percent. Conventional treatment involves benzodiazepine drugs, which can have serious side effects, including dependence, daytime drowsiness, and memory impairment, among others. Kava, on the other hand, has demonstrated a remarkable safety profile, with side effects of only 1.5 to 2.3 percent reported in studies of more than 3,000 patients. The adverse events reported most often by kava users were gastrointestinal complaints, allergic skin reactions, headache, and photosensitivity. The researchers noted that as patients often prefer natural alternatives, physicians should consider kava extract as a viable treatment option for patients experiencing anxiety disorders.

- Rob McCaleb, Herb Research Foundation [Pittler MH, Ernst E. Efficacy of kava extract for treating anxiety: systematic review and meta-analysis. J Clin Psychopharmacol 2000; 20: 84-89. Volz H-P, Kieser M. Kava-kava extract WS1490 versus placebo in anxiety disorders: a randomized placebo-controlled 25-week outpatient trial. Pharmacopsychiatry 1997; 30: 1-5.] see also http://www.herbs.org/current/kavametaanxi.htm

Kava feeding in rats does not cause liver injury nor enhance galactosamine-induced hepatitis.

DiSilvestro RA, Zhang W, DiSilvestro DJ.

Human Nutrition, The Ohio State University, 345 Campbell Hall, 1787 Neil Avenue, Columbus, OH 43210-1295, United States. disilvestro.1@osu.edu

Kava, like a number of herbals, has been associated with causing liver damage based on limited evidence. In contrast, the present study found that in rats, 3 mo feedings of two types of kava extracts (an acetone extract and an ethanol extract of the Samoan kava cultivar Ava Laau) at three different doses (31.25, 62.5 and 133 mg/kg diet) produced no liver injury based on serum markers of liver damage (sorbitol dehydrogenase activities, bile acid concentrations, and beta-glucuronidase activities) and serum lipid peroxide readings. In fact, for some measurements and some kava doses, the injury marker readings were below control values. Moreover, for these same parameters, kava feeding did not enhance the effects of the hepatotoxin galacatosamine (500 mg/kg ip); some kava doses even showed modest protection against liver injury. Liver histology analysis showed no signs of kava causing or enhancing liver injury. Thus, this study does not support the concept that kava produces or aggravates liver injury.

(Source: ScienceDirect)

Safety of ethanolic kava extract: Results of a study of chronic toxicity in rats.

Sorrentino L, Capasso A, Schmidt M.

Department of Experimental Pharmacology, University Frederico II, Via D Montesano 49, I-80131 Napoli, Italy. ludovico.sorrentino@unina.it

BACKGROUNDS: Recently, potential liver toxicity was discussed with the intake of kava extract preparations (Piper methysticum) as anxiolytic drugs. The aim of this study was to test chronic toxicity in rats by oral application of an ethanolic kava full extract. METHODS: Wistar rats of both sexes were fed 7.3 or 73 mg/kg body weight of ethanolic kava extract for 3 and 6 months. The animals were examined for changes in body weight, hematological and liver parameters, and macroscopical and microscopical histological changes in the major organs. RESULTS: No signs of toxicity could be found. CONCLUSIONS: The results are in accordance with the medical experience regarding the use of kava preparations and the long tradition of kava drinking in the South Pacific island states. Specifically, the results do not back the suspicion of potential liver toxicity.

from source: 1: Phytomedicine. 2006 Sep;13(8):542-9. Epub 2006 Aug 14.

Evaluation of commercial kava extracts and kavalactone standards for mutagenicity and toxicity using the mammalian cell gene mutation assay in L5178Y mouse lymphoma cells

Paul Whittaker^{a, ,} , Jane J. Clarke^b, Richard H.C. San^b, Joseph M. Betz^c, Harold E. Seifried^d, Lowri S. de Jager^a and Virginia C. Dunkel^a
aCenter for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition, Food and Drug Administration, 5100 Paint Branch Parkway, HFS-717, College Park, MD 20740-3835, United States
^bBioReliance, Rockville, MD, United States
^cOffice of Dietary Supplements, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
^dNational Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
Received 11 May 2007; accepted 17 July 2007. Available online 31 July 2007.

Abstract

Kava (Piper methysticum) is a member of the pepper family and has been cultivated by South Pacific islanders for centuries and used as a social and ceremonial drink. Traditionally, kava extracts are prepared by grinding or chewing the rhizome and mixing with water and coconut milk. The active constituents of kava are a group of approximately 18 compounds collectively referred to as kavalactones or kava pyrones. Kawain, dihydrokawain, methysticin, dihydromethysticin, yangonin, and desmethoxyyangonin are the six major kavalactones. Kava beverages and other preparations are known to be anxiolytic and are used for anxiety disorders. Dietary supplements containing the root of the kava shrub have been implicated in several cases of liver toxicity in humans, including several who required liver transplants after using kava supplements. In order to study the toxicity and mutagenicity, two commercial samples of kava, Kaviar and KavaPure, and the six pure kavalactones including both d-kawain and dl-kawain, were evaluated in L5178Y mouse lymphoma cells. Neither the kava samples nor the kavalactones induced a mutagenic response in the L5178Y mouse lymphoma mutation assay with the addition of human liver S9 activation.

Safety of ethanolic kava extract: Results of a study of chronic toxicity in rats

L. Sorrentino^{a, ,} , A. Capasso^b and M. Schmidt^c
aDepartment of Experimental Pharmacology, University Frederico II, Via D. Montesano 49, I-80131 Napoli, Italy
^bDepartment of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Salerno, Via Ponto Don Melillo, I-84084 Fisciano, Salerno, Italy
^cHerbresearch Germany, Wartbergweg 15, D-86874 Tussenhausen, Germany

Abstract

Backgrounds

Recently, potential liver toxicity was discussed with the intake of kava extract preparations (Piper methysticum) as anxiolytic drugs. The aim of this study was to test chronic toxicity in rats by oral application of an ethanolic kava full extract.

Methods

Wistar rats of both sexes were fed 7.3 or 73 mg/kg body weight of ethanolic kava extract for 3 and 6 months. The animals were examined for changes in body weight, hematological and liver parameters, and macroscopical and microscopical histological changes in the major organs.

Results

No signs of toxicity could be found.

Conclusions

The results are in accordance with the medical experience regarding the use of kava preparations and the long tradition of kava drinking in the South Pacific island states. Specifically, the results do not back the suspicion of potential liver toxicity.

Catch the latest KAVA Happenings at the Hawai`i Pacific Islands
Awa Festival hosted at the UH Manoa main campus Honolulu Hawaii on October 11, 2008.   Great Kava enthusiast from around the South Pacific Islands will gather to enjoy live local music, educational programs and participate in a number of cultural venues.

Many of our Customers have enjoyed our Premium Micronized Kava for some time and we would like to hear from you.  Tell the world what you think about our Better Living herb products by posting your testimonial comments to this blog or drop us an e-mail.

Kava Kava or just kava for short has been used as a relaxing, stress relieving drink by the people of the South Pacific for three thousand years. Originally the drink was prepared by virgin girls chewing the root and spitting into the kava bowl. That is not one of the recipes covered on this page. Today kava kava drink is prepared, in the islands, by mixing kava root powder with water, about one tablespoon per cup. Kava is most often served in the islands as a socializing beverage. Micronized kava is extremely fine and requires no filtering. Kava has a distinctive herbal taste. It has been described by first time users as “not bad’ to “awful”, so  the recipes presented here all use flavors. Micronized kava packs during shipment, so you may want to fluff it up with a flour sifter upon receipt. The recipes listed here are starting recipes. You may want to develop your own.

Kava Espresso:

Kava espresso, so named because it uses little water, is for use anytime during the day to quickly relieve stress, anxiety or just to relax. In a cup put one heaping tablespoon of kava powder (more or less), add 1/4 teaspoon of “Crystal Light” lemonade mix (more or less), add 1/3 cup water, stir until smooth, drink immediately after stirring to avoid settling. You will not taste the kava at all. Use more kava  for a stronger sensation.

The Kava Party Recipe:

1 two liter bottle 7-UP or lemon-lime soda.
4 tablespoons of lime juice.
8 tablespoons Micronized Kava Powder.
Mix in bowl large enough to allow room for soda to foam. Stir frequently to prevent settling.

Warm Kava Tea:

For a warm relaxing drink, try one tablespoon of Micronized Kava powder in warm (not hot) double strength coffee tea or chocolate. Use decaffeinated form to promote restful sleep.

For those of us who have been very concerned recently about the purported toxicity of the use of Kava Kava will be relieved to hear that contamination seems to have played a large part in the recent problems with the herb. In herbal medicine (as with most medicines), there is a fine line between medicine and poison. In the case of Kava Kava, there seems to have been contamination of the leaf and stem peelings of the plant in some European pharmaceutical formulations. Traditionally the herb is derived from the root of the plant rather than the toxic leaves and stem. Our recommendation still stands that all herbs should be purchased from reputable HERBAL companied with knowledgeable herbalists in charge of all aspects of productions. Many herbs can be toxic and your naturopathic doctor can help you identify whether an herb is suitable for your use. The health food supplement industry is rarely regulated by the FDA and because of this it is very important to know the source and maker of your health food products and herbs.

Below is a comment from the president of the American Association of Naturopathic Physicians and the recent findings from the University of Hawaii.

“An Associated Press release on April 8, 2003 reveals what may be the answer to the question about the purported toxicity of Kava. The historical, ethnobotanical and medicinal use of Kava has been with the plant’s root alone. Reports from Europe about hepatotoxicity from patients using Kava led to warnings, including one from the FDA in March 2002, which were suspicious, given that the plant has been used throughout the Pacific for 2,000 years without any significant toxicity. University of Hawaii scientists C.S. Tang, Klaus Dragull and W.Y. Yoshida reported that they have found a potentially dangerous alkaloid called pipermethystine in some of the Kava extracts produced by European pharmaceutical companies which made use of the stem peelings and leaves. The researchers have submitted a paper to the journal Phytochemistry which has been accepted for publication”.

–Michael Traub, ND

President, American Association of Naturopathic Physicians

(Link to Naturalhealthcalifornia.com/Kava%20toxicity%20answered.htm)

Kava Tea

	6 tbs. Kava Kava Root
	3 tsp. Cinnamon
	3 tsp. Cardamon
	1 tsp. Nutmeg
	pinch of allspice
	1 gallon pure water
	1 or 2 cups milk, rice milk, or soymilk
	4 tbs. Honey

Bring all ingredients except milk & honey to a boil in a tightly covered non-aluminum pan. Reduce heat and simmer on low for 1 hour. Strain through cheesecloth. Add milk and honey (you can add more milk and honey to desired taste).

The Islanders say Kava is best consumed under circumstances when you are reasonably relaxed and free of the cares of the day. You should not overeat beforehand, nor should you consume vast quantities of alcohol. For more Herb Hints See http://www.herbcorner.net/recipes/r_kava.html