Piper methysticum
Piper methysticum
Piper methysticum is a plant central to various Pacific Island traditions. It is traditionally utilized as a diuretic, stimulant, anodyne, sedative, and expectorant, as well as for infections, sudorific purposes, and urogenital complaints. Scientific evidence suggests that kavain shows diverse biological activities, though findings are primarily based on preclinical studies. Some research indicates potential as a multi-targeted therapeutic for rheumatoid arthritis by modulating inflammatory mediators. Reports of kava product exposures to poison centers increased from 2011 to 2025. No major safety issues or notable drug interactions are currently recorded.
- Traditionally for
- diuretic · infections
- Traditions
- traditional
- Best evidence
- D
- Cautions
- —
Informational only. Traditional use does not mean proven effectiveness. Evidence and safety vary — check the cited sources.
Traditional use
- diuretic
- infections
- stimulant
- anodyne
- expectorant
- sedative
- sudorific
- urogenital complaints
What the science says
- Kavain from Piper methysticum shows diverse biological activities across various pathological conditions but findings are primarily based on preclinical studies.
- Kratom-containing kava product exposures reported to poison centers increased steadily from 2011 to 2025.
- The survey found that among participants, kava was used infrequently and was perceived to have mild effects such as reduced anxiety and sedation.
- FKA from Piper methysticum shows potential as a multi-targeted therapeutic for rheumatoid arthritis by modulating several key signaling pathways and inflammatory mediators.
Frequently asked questions
What is Piper methysticum?
Piper methysticum (Piper methysticum) is a plant documented in FolkKB's traditional-medicine reference, drawn from sourced literature and cross-checked against the evidence.
What is Piper methysticum traditionally used for?
Traditional sources record Piper methysticum for: diuretic, infections, stimulant, anodyne, expectorant, sedative. This reflects traditional use, not a proven medical treatment.
Which traditions use Piper methysticum?
Piper methysticum appears in these traditions in our sources: traditional.
What does the scientific evidence say about Piper methysticum?
4 sourced findings are recorded for Piper methysticum; the strongest carries evidence grade D. For example: Kavain from Piper methysticum shows diverse biological activities across various pathological conditions but findings are primarily based on preclinical studies.
How strong is the evidence for Piper methysticum?
The strongest finding for Piper methysticum carries evidence grade D — preliminary or traditional. Grades run A (strongest) to D (preliminary or traditional).
Is Piper methysticum safe? What are the side effects?
No major safety issues are recorded for Piper methysticum in our sources, but the data may be incomplete. Consult a qualified professional before use.
Does Piper methysticum interact with medications?
No drug interactions are recorded for Piper methysticum in our sources. This does not rule them out — check with a pharmacist.
What are the common names of Piper methysticum?
Piper methysticum is also known as: Перец опьяняющий, kava.
Is Piper methysticum a proven treatment?
No. FolkKB is informational only. Traditional use and early findings are not proof of efficacy or safety — consult a qualified professional and never self-treat.
Sources
- T3 Dr. Duke's Ethnobotanical Database public domain (USDA ARS — attribute Dr. Duke's)
- T2 Increase in Poison Center Reports Linked to Kratom-Containing Kava Products - National Poison Data System, United States, 2000-2025. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Kavain for health promotion and disease mitigation: Pharmacological promise and therapeutic perspectives. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Kava (Piper methysticum) consumption patterns and conceptualizations: results from an online survey. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Multi-target therapeutic potential of Flavokawain A in rheumatoid arthritis: A mechanistic and translational perspective. literature abstract metadata