KAVA
Botanical and Cultural Origin
Kava (Piper methysticum) is a perennial shrub native to the South Pacific, traditionally prepared as a cold-water infusion from the peeled and ground rootstock. With over 3,000 years of documented ceremonial and therapeutic use, kava has played a central role in Pacific Island cultures, valued for its ability to enhance social connection and promote both physical and mental relaxation. Its longstanding traditional use forms the basis for inclusion in modern clinical practice.
Material Selection and Extraction
The kava extract featured in this product is derived exclusively from the fresh rhizome of the Noble variety of P. methysticum — the only kava type traditionally and consistently consumed in Pacific Island cultures. Cultivars such as Borogu, Eva, and Namabawan are favoured for their balanced chemotypes, desirable sensory profile, and lower concentrations of undesirable constituents.
The extract is:
- Standardised to ≥10% total kavalactones, the key lipophilic compounds associated with kava’s clinical effects.
- Prepared using traditional water extraction, avoiding organic solvents residues and preserving the full spectrum of native kavalactones.
- Sourced from rhizome-only material, with stem peelings and aerial parts excluded to reduce levels of Flavokawain B (FKB) — a chalcone compound associated with hepatotoxicity when co-administered with paracetamol.
This careful sourcing and processing approach supports a clinically responsible kava profile, aligned with both traditional preparation methods and contemporary safety considerations
Neurophysiological Pathways
The central nervous system activity of kava is attributed to its kavalactones, which modulate multiple neurochemical targets. These include:
- GABAergic pathway interaction.
- Modulation of voltage-gated ion channels.
- Influence on monoamine neurotransmission.
- Effects on noradrenaline transport
ALPHAWAVE® L-THEANINE
L-theanine is a non-proteinogenic amino acid that modulates several neurophysiological pathways involved in stress response and mind relaxation, via;
- GABAergic modulation: L-theanine has been shown to increase GABA levels and support GABA-A receptor expression, enhancing inhibitory neurotransmission without causing sedation
- Glutamatergic regulation: It modulates the glutamatergic system by attenuating glutamate-induced excitotoxicity and supporting excitatory-inhibitory balance.
- Alpha brainwave activity: L-theanine increases alpha brainwave activity, particularly in the frontal cortex, as measured via EEG. This brainwave pattern is associated with a state of relaxed wakefulness, typically observed when an individual is calm yet alert, such as during meditation.
These mechanisms support L-theanine’s observed clinical benefits, including its ability to calm the mind and reduce the physiological response to stress — without sedation or cognitive impairment.
AlphaWave® is a high-purity, clinically studied form of L-theanine, produced via a proprietary fermentation and purification process and standardised to ≥98% purity. Known for promoting a state of calm without sedation, AlphaWave® L-theanine offers a concentrated and consistent source of this neuroactive amino acid.
AlphaWave® L-theanine has been evaluated in multiple clinical studies demonstrating its ability to support a healthy stress response, calm the mind, and promote mind relaxation. Its evidence base supports both acute and ongoing use in stress-related presentations, consistent with its role as a non-sedating, well-tolerated compound.
Directions to use:
Adults: Chew 2 tablets daily to calm the mind. Chew 2–4 tablets daily to relieve symptoms of mild anxiety and support a healthy stress response in the body, or as directed by your health professional.
Allergen Information:
- No Added: gluten, dairy, soy or nuts.
Prescribing Information:
- Use with caution alongside CNS depressants (e.g., benzodiazepines, some antidepressants), as concurrent use may enhance sedative effects
- Use caution with concurrent intake of alcohol, sedatives, or hepatotoxic medications due to potential additive effects
- Patients with liver disease or a history of hepatic impairment should only use kava-containing products under the guidance of a healthcare professional
- Consult a healthcare professional prior to use if taking GABAergic or glutamatergic agents, due to potential pharmacodynamic interactions
- Avoid high doses prior to driving or operating machinery due to the potential for mild sedation in sensitive individuals.
Warnings
- Not for prolonged use
- If symptoms persist, seek advice from a health care practitioner
- Not recommended for use by pregnant or lactating women
- Adults only
- May harm the liver
