Kava is often prescribed to treat stiffness, insomnia, pain, jet lag, uncontrolled epilepsy and anxiety. Scientists have found that kava contains chemicals called kavapyrones. They reduce convulsions and enable muscle relaxation. The scientists have also found that kavapyrones cause in the brain reactions similar to the reactions cause by medications used for treatment of anxiety and depression. Unlike those medicines, the compounds found in kava do not cause negative side effects on heart rating, thinking ability, breathing and blood pressure.

Kava changes the amount of neurotransmitters in the blood because the plant stops the absorption of the neurotransmitter norepinephrine. High levels of norepinephrine in the blood can help for relaxation and can reduce anxiety. Also, kava increases the number of attachment sited for gamma aminobutyric acid (GABA) which is another neurotransmitter. The increased number of GABA sites may enhance GABA activity and this may cause sedation.

In addition, kava contains chemicals that prevent the enzyme monoamine oxidase-B (MAO-B) from affecting the level of dopamine, which is also neurotransmitter. MAO-B and dopamine have both affect the body’s emotional stability. However, the effects of kava in this direction are not very well-known.

Standardized kava extract can be taken three times per day. The total daily amount of kava should not be more than 210 mg. One dose of 210 mg can be used to treat insomnia. Doses of 2-4 g can be taken three times per day to treat stress, insomnia and anxiety.

Kava can cause liver damage, so people who suffer from liver disease and take liver-compromising medicine should consult a doctor before they take kava.

Ginseng root and herb is an ingredient in thousand of formulas used by people to provide energy and health. This is most frequently used herb.

This herb is not easy to produce and it takes six years to reach maturity. Ginseng contains vitamins, minerals, fat-soluble compounds, carbohydrate compounds and nitrogenous compounds. Scientists say this herb can enhance the immune system and can affect the whole body.

There are a few types of ginseng: Japanese ginseng (Panax japonicum), Asian ginseng (panax ginseng), Siberian ginseng (Eleutherococcus senticosus), and American ginseng. Asian ginseng is the most popular type. It is found in China, Korea and Japan. Siberian ginseng grows in Korea, China, Japan and Russia. American ginseng can be found from Quebec to Minnesota, in Georgia and Oklahoma.

American and Asian ginsengs both have similar chemical composition and are known to have healing potentials. The herb grown in North America is most desired and most expensive, as it is believed to have stronger properties.