The Addiction Should Be Defined

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People have used kava kava kava for short for thousands of years to relieve issues like anxiety, stress, and insomnia, and to promote relaxation. It is a natural substance, derived from the roots and stems of a small shrub native to regions of the South Pacific.

Some kava users report psychoactive, hallucinogenic, and even euphoric effects. Studies find kava contains substances that affect the brain similarly to alcohol, although it does not seem to impair cognitive functions. Although kava is legal in the United States for personal use, there are troubling reports it may cause liver damage. Is kava addictive?

Is kava safe to consume? Does Kava Fit the Definition of Addiction? Although the United States Food and Drug Administration FDA does not classify kava as an addictive substance, some studies find its effects on the brain are similar to those of addictive drugs and alcohol.

Addictive substances cause a surge of neurotransmitters in the pleasure and reward centers of the brain. The result is an increase in levels of chemicals like dopamine and endorphins that affect mood and other emotions.

Is Kava Safe to Consume?

This surge of natural chemicals elevates the mood while decreasing stress, anxiety, and pain. Although the effect on the pleasure and reward center of the brain is triggered naturally by such things as eating a favorite food or spending time with loved ones, addictive substances cause unnaturally high spikes in chemical levels, which powerfully reinforce the desire to repeat the behavior.

Although there is limited research on kava and its active compound, kava pyrones, at least one study found it increased dopamine levels and triggered a relaxing, slightly euphoric effect in study subjects.

GABA blocks nervous system activity and helps regulate mood. Because kava interacts with brain receptors to elevate mood and promote relaxation, it may lead to dependence. With addictive substances, dependence often leads to addiction. Is Kava Safe to Consume? Side Effects and Safety Issues Kava users have reported uncomfortable side effects, including digestive issues, dizziness, headache, lethargy, and allergic skin reactions.

Other experts advise consumers to limit regular consumption of kava to less than three months unless a doctor approves longer use. Potential Liver Injury is the Biggest Area of Controversy As mentioned above, one of the biggest concerns over the use of kava is the potential for serious liver injury. In the early s, many health experts claimed kava was causing liver damage, sometimes fatal, in users.]

The Addiction Should Be Defined - agree with

People use them for recreation but most end up having addiction problems that become hard to personally solve. From until today, deaths from drug overdose has almost tripled and we would like to reduce the numbers if not eliminate them entirely. Drugs also affect people who live with addicts — family, friends, and others. Looking at the statistics should be enough for us to realize that we have to act against abuse and addiction. And seeing the countless lives wasted to substances should lead us to act urgently. The problem is that drug problems are not easy to solve, and situations are different between people suffering. Some people think they are okay but are, in fact, in danger of themselves. So how do you know if someone needs help? And how can we help someone who has a drug abuse or drug addiction?