What is Kavalactones?

Kavalactones are a class of compounds that are found in the root of the kava plant. These compounds are believed to be responsible for the psychoactive effects of kava, and they are considered to be the active ingredients in kava.

There are 18 different types of kavalactones, with kavain, dihydrokavain (DHK), methysticin, and dihydromethysticin (DHM) being the most well-known and well-studied. Each kavalactone has different effects on the body and mind, but they all seem to contribute to the overall relaxing and anxiolytic effects of kava.

Kavalactones work by interacting with the GABA receptors in the brain which is responsible for regulating anxiety and tension, They enhance the activity of GABA, promoting a sense of calm and relaxation. This is why kava is considered as a natural alternative to anxiety medication and it's used to reduce stress and anxiety, promoting sleep and relaxation.

It is important to note that kavalactones are not psychoactive in the same way as THC or CBD, but kava is classified as a depressant drug, which means it slows down the function of the central nervous system. This makes it different than alcohol, for example, that affects the neurotransmitters of the brain in a different way.