The American Herbal Products Association (AHPA) yesterday adopted new cautionary language to appear on food or dietary supplement products containing the popular herb kava (Piper methysticum), commonly used for anxiety and stress.

Earlier this year, the Association outlined specific health information that consumers should take into consideration prior to taking kava and provided this information to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

The safety of the South Pacific herb began to be reexamined when rare case reports in the United States and Europe suggested a potential relationship between the use of kava-containing dietary supplements and liver injury.

"Although no actual relationship between the use of kava and any liver problem has been established by the FDA or any scientific reviewers, it is sensible that consumers of kava are informed in the light of the recent case reports," said Michael McGuffin, president of the American Herbal Products Association.

AHPA originally adopted a label for kava products in 1997 to restrict against use by children or by pregnant or nursing women, and to caution against use with alcohol or when driving. The new policy retains that and adds the following: "Caution: Ask a healthcare professional before use if you have or have had liver problems, frequently use alcoholic beverages, or are taking any medication. Stop use and see a doctor if you develop symptoms that may signal liver problems (e.g., unexplained fatigue, abdominal pain, loss of appetite, fever, vomiting, dark urine, pale stools, yellow eyes or skin." This article was prepared by Pain & Central Nervous System Week editors from staff and other reports.

　　From Newsrx.com