Kava extract versus placebo for treating anxiety (Cochrane review)
Pittler MH, Ernst E
Published in Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews
Methodology
Cochrane systematic review and meta-analysis of 12 double-blind randomised placebo-controlled trials of kava extract for anxiety
Key Findings
Kava significantly reduced Hamilton Anxiety scale scores versus placebo (weighted mean difference 3.9 points), with adverse events generally mild and transient in short trials.
Conclusions
Kava extract is superior to placebo for symptomatic treatment of anxiety on short-term data.
Limitations
Short trial durations; rare hepatotoxicity not detectable at this scale.
Supplements Studied
Kava significantly reduced Hamilton Anxiety scale scores versus placebo (weighted mean difference 3.9 points), with adverse events generally mild and transient in short trials.
Outcomes Measured
Kava produced a small but significant reduction in Hamilton anxiety scores versus placebo across seven trials
Kava extract significantly reduced Hamilton Anxiety scores compared with placebo
Kava significantly reduced Hamilton Anxiety scale scores versus placebo (weighted mean difference 3.9 points), with adverse events generally mild and transient in short trials.
Related Health Concerns
Study Details
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