Kavain

Kavain is a major component of the kava plant, which is used as a dietary supplement to treat anxiety, insomnia, and stress. Kavain is found mostly in the roots of the kava plant. It's a crystalline solid with the IUPAC name 4-Methoxy-6-[(E)-2-phenylethenyl]-5,6-dihydro-2H-pyran-2-one.

Kavain blocks various cationic voltage-gated channels. It also potentiates GABAA receptors, similar to benzodiazepines.

Kava-containing products can cause liver toxicity. Kava is heavily regulated in the United Kingdom, Australia, and Canada. It's legal in the U.S., but it comes with significant risks, especially if you're taking medication to treat depression and/or anxiety, or if you have other medical conditions.

You should discuss kava use with any prescribing physician. Taking kava with alcohol, other sedatives, or muscle relaxants can result in additive effects up to and including coma.