Kava-kava also shouldn't be used during pregnancy, while nursing, or in cases of major depression, according to the 1998 German Commission E Monographs . And using the herb for long periods has been associated with a temporary yellow discoloration of the skin, hair, and nails. In the South Pacific kava-kava is traditionally consumed as a tea. But it can also be taken as an alcohol tincture, a preparation with glycerol, or in capsule form. Because of the herb's odd taste, the capsule form may be more palatable.
Most people feel a pleasant relaxing effect within a half hour of taking an effective dose.
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