Reddit mentions: The best kava kava herbal supplements

I have similar problems. Anxiety often pulls my production at work down to zero. It's a real struggle...sometimes I'll go weeks without accomplishing anything substantial.

> but I feel like my managers on the cusp of realizing how much I'm behind on

That is an anxiety-driven sentence...just want you to be aware of that. In reality, you don't have any idea whether your manager is aware of your situation. And even if things are backed up for you at the moment and your manager notices, it's likely they'll just come and talk to you about it...not fire you immediately.

Since you just got a promotion, I'm assuming you have a pretty good relationship with your manager. If so, I'd just have a conversation with them as soon as possible and explain your anxiety (as a temporary problem). Even if they don't grasp anxiety, they surely will understand that you're having a rough time at the moment and do what they can to help you.

The alternative is to struggle silently until someone does notice. In my experience (twice in the last 2 years), this is a far worse outcome. Because when someone notices, its because something important was late/wasn't done/etc. Communicating now allows the manager to see the issue and redirect some responsibilities or reprioritize temporarily while you recover - they should be glad you shared because you're looking out for their best interests as well.

As far as productivity goes, I don't have a lot of advice. I've tried a lot of things, but my anxiety seems to work at its own pace. Counseling has helped me in the past, though not with this particular issue. I've found that taking 10 minute breaks during the day can really help me focus on starting a particular task when I get back to my desk.

A strategy I'm attempting this week is to start each day by writing a list of the 3 simplest things I can do (send an email, check the status of something, etc) to make progress. A longer list might intimidate me, but three quick and easy tasks hopefully aren't anxiety bearing. Then I just white knuckle my way through the list, encouraging myself and praising how good of a job I'm doing (which sounds really dumb, I know).

Then try to use your productivity on the 3 items as a springboard to something else that's easy to do. This part can be super tricky, so explicitly tell yourself how great of a job you're doing when making progress on your list. A positive mindset can ward off the negative thinking/anxiety spiral if you can keep your mind focused on doing, rather than thinking.

Then lastly, I know you said "other than medication" and I usually feel the same way. I took various prescription drugs when I was in college and hated all of them. They would solve one problem by ruining the rest of my life.

Last week, I was reading through "The Anxiety & Phobia Workbook" given to me by a psychologist friend, and it had a section on supplements...which I'm not normally into, but I thought 'why not, if one of them can let me actually accomplish things without knocking me for a loop, then it's probably worth a shot.' So I ordered some Kava pills (I ordered these ) and took one yesterday as a first test.

Anecdotal, I know, but one pill did wonders for me. My mind was super clear and I was able to just see something that needed to be done and do it without analyzing the ever loving crap out of it. I watered my plants for the first time in months and cleaned out my microwave for the first time since I moved here (gross, I know). Anyway, if you'd like, I'll report back after a few more days of taking them and see if the change is maintained or not.

I'm not saying run out and buy the same thing, just that you should research some things and see if they might be helpful. The supplements aren't nearly as harsh as prescription meds, but also don't have the same strength of results. The book recommended Kava or Valerian for anxiety (they're both mild sedatives) and St. John's Wart for depression/anxiety.

Happy to discuss more if you have questions or just want to discuss some strategies. Feel free to PM me if you need to go into specifics. I hope things get better for you. Keep working at it!

This stuff helps me these days for anxiety and sleep: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B015NLOMJK/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o04_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

It's important to remember that this is temporary and you are kinda-sorta insane right now. heh. It's totally normal. It's really hard to work on anything too hardcore right now but you'll eventually feel a little better than the day before and that will keep repeating. Besides that kava, I like Skullcap and Lemon Balm a lot for anxiety but best to spend a little more and get the highest quality you can find. The subreddits "supplements" and "nootropics" may have some useful posts.

Well I was on sub for like 4 years and started at 24MG. I don't know what your situation was but I was super jacked after that. It took a solid 2 weeks before the worst of my RLS and aches left and several months later before I really felt that I was getting better each day.

If you can muster doing even a little bit of cardio somehow, I think it could help a lot. It's understandable that it's a struggle now but even just walking fast and breathing. LOTS of hydration is crucial! Drink water until your pee is barely yellow at all. And greens. Do you like smoothies? There are cool green powders that have helped me a lot, like "Capra Greens". You feel an infusion of nutrition shorty after drinking it! Nutrition will help your healing for sure. Also, some of our mood juice is actually created within our gut, so getting some of those GT's kombucha drinks could help as well as taking something like this: https://www.amazon.com/Jarrow-Formulas-Jarro-Dophilus-Supports-Intestinal/dp/B0013OUKTS/ref=sr_1_1_s_it?s=hpc&ie=UTF8&qid=1527368806&sr=1-1&keywords=jarrowdophilus

Do you have access to any sort of therapy? If you aren't down with the whole NA/AA thing that is OK but starting to talk to a professional of some kind when you are up to it can really help a great deal. I had to learn a lot of my coping from others. Look to others for help now when you can push yourself, please!!

Wising you the best!

First off, Kava definitely works, and it will be very helpful in your scenario. I've dealt with anxiety related to drug and alcohol withdrawal, and I've found nothing more effective and safe. There is a reverse tolerance that many experience, and I certainly did. I drank it every night for about two week before I felt the effects. Some of this may have been because I was also not really making it quite right, and trying to take shortcuts. It is worth getting over the hump though. This stuff is a miracle.

I tried several shortcuts, and I'm sure others can attest as well, that there is no shortcut to good Kava. You want to brew it yourself, by hand. Some people swear by blenders, but honestly it's easier for me just to knead it myself.

Get some good kava from a reputable vendor. I highly recommend KalmWithKava's Loa Waka, but there are several in the list to chose from.

Then get yourself a bag, like this one.

From there it's simple.

Two tablespoons per cup of water (you may find you want more or less as you become accustomed to it). I usually drink about 3 cups, so that's 6 tablespoons. Hot water (not boiling, but hotter than you'd want to rest your hand in).

1. Measure out the tablespoons into the kava bag.
   
2. Place bag in large mixing bowl. Pour the hot water INTO the bag.
   
3. Let steep for 5-10 minutes
   
4. Knead the Kava for a good 10 minutes or so. Hard. Smoosh it. Wring it.*
   
5. Discard kava from bag, clean up.
   
6. Enjoy. Dosage is typically 4-6 oz every 10 minutes or so until happy. This is called a "shell".
   
   

• Careful not to ruin your bag. The kavalactones are attached to the outside of the root, like glue. You want to rub and grind it off.
  
  Taste: most people find the taste to be pretty foul. I do. I don't really recommend mixing it into something. Just do the shots and take it with a chaser.
  
  Best of luck in your fight for sobriety, it's a long road, but ultimately one of gratitude and peace greater than drugs would have ever let you know.
  Bula!

That's for sure, this is definitely a friendlier place to ask, and there are people like me who are at least somewhat knowledgable about the kava root :)

If you do get some root instead of concentrated liquid or micronized, and you enjoy it but dont wanna take all that time, you can get a blender super cheap like 20 bucks i think, probably less if you hit up a goodwill or salvation army lmao.

There's also the Aluball which is supposedly easy to use, and you dont have to filter your kava through a bag for 10 minutes. Plus I've heard that the company that makes the Aluball has good kava too.

But from what i've read, root is better than micronized and liquid and it's as if they are missing something, but I only have tried root and yogi tea bags lol so I don't have anything to compare to. Could very easily be easily be kava snobbishness, like how people in this sub look down on people who get their kratom at a headshop or gas station or not from one of r/kratom's approved vendors.

>a low dose of Xanax, without the sleepiness or the mind fog

This sounds great. I take Etizolam (an RC benzo / xanax-type-equivalent) and I've found that it's best in low doses for reducing anxiety and relaxing, but it also has a tendency to put me to sleep if I try to pursue any more of a high (drinking, taking more of it etc.) and can give a mind fog / memory gaps that I don't really like. I'd love to get those effects without the sleepiness and mind fog.

>Best bet is just to get some ground kava root, put it in a cheesecloth (I use a paint strainer[1] ) fill a bowl with room temperature water, drop the bag of ground root in the water, let it soak for 5-10 minutes then knead it for 10 minutes. Then just scoop the "tea" into a small cup and slam it back.

How much kava / water do you use for this? I'm guessing this might vary depending on how strong the strain of kava is?

>Kava is unique because it has reverse tolerance. Most drugs (for lack of a better term) require you to use more and more each time to feel the effects. With kava it takes less over time to feel it. It has to be a daily thing, after about 5-7 days, you'll be able to feel it quicker with less tea.

If you build up the reverse tolerance but then stop taking it, how long have you found that it usually takes for you to lose it and return to the point where you have to build it back up again?

>Bula Kava House has a good selection. I like the waka kava and the koniac the best. It's easy just to snag up their starter pack which has 4 or 5 good sized bags of their most popular strains. I've not had their instant kava yet, but I hear good things about it.

I found waka kava on amazon for a considerably cheaper price than Bula Kava House's waka kava. Any idea if that's likely to be a good bang for your buck, or is Bula Kava's stuff stronger?

Your best bet would be chamomile extract with apigenin, as a study came out recently indicating it being pretty damn effective for treating anxiety.

Kava is pretty useless unless you get "real" kava (you need to drink real kava, kava capsules are worthless). Real kava is intoxicating, so this doesn't seem like a nootropic to me, but it may be nice for you after a long day, they even make "mild" kava that you can have during the day, I never tried that kind. I tried micronized kava, as you don't need to prepare it.

Lemon balm is supposed to be good, but I've never felt a damn thing from it. I've tried the type nootropic Depot carries (Cyracos)

Skullcap I also never felt a damn thing from. I tried Herb Pharm non-alcohol brand from Amazon.

Passion flower - never tried it, let me know if you end up testing it out.

All in all, don't expect miracles with these non-FDA approved compounds. If you are having serious anxiety issues, see a medical professional, if you are having mild symptoms, the nootropic route may be a Ok place to start


I'm not pasting links for products that didn't work or I haven't tried.


I use the below chamomile
Nature's Way Chamomile, 60 Capsules (Pack of 2) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B003M63696/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apap_JGMlOmJqZM2se

The below kava is of high quality, I'd go to their actual website for a wealth of information as well as a better selection of "flavors". Again, micronized doesn't require preparation, which is why I tried it first.
Micronized Instant Kava Powder - Vanuatu Borogu (4 oz) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0165A0SOG/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apap_Ts6JuJCUKZjIR

Hi, I've helped many in your current situation.

My best advice is too firstly follow what u/tasweigan89 said.


To minimize withdraw symptoms, I recommend Kava Kava Root capsules. Helps relieve stress, it has a reverse tolerance, gives a very mellow warm feeling to the body, isn't addictive, and it has minimal risks but you should review them yourself independently and not take my word for it.

This has helped many people through addictions, including myself.

https://www.amazon.com/NOW-Kava-250-120-Capsules/dp/B0013OSNA6


I also take a supplement that is scientifically formulated with harmful things like herbs and B vitamins, it's purpose is to increase focus, clarity, memory retention, and restore motivation.
Majority of the ingredients have been proven to stimulant neuron growth and repair, which would help replenish your obstructed reward system from your addiction.
https://www.amazon.com/Premium-Supplement-Memory-Energy-Clarity/dp/B072FH9YDV

Get an Aluball! Great little invention for whipping up a batch of kava.

Another thing about kava...it's an acquired taste. I don't mind it so much any more but at first I found it repulsive. You can hold your breath though and bypass the taste altogether and do a chocolate milk chaser or something like that.

It's a very nice night time relaxer and also helps to get amazing sleep. I really love kava now.

I'm not a medical professional, but I'll help you as much as possible with what I know and my experiences. For insomnia, they'll ask you some questions and have you fill out questionnaires to eliminate sleep apnea and determine what is bothering you. It's usually extremely easy to identify the problem with the doctor (e.g., delayed sleep phase disorder, insomnia, restless leg syndrome, etc.) If it's insomnia, they'll recommend 1) melatonin (and if you've taken a high dose like 3-10 mg, they'll recommend lowering it to 300 mcg). Next, they'll recommend individual therapies for your disorder (i.e., bright light therapy for delayed sleep phase disorder, CBT-I for insomnia) and a referral to a sleep psychologist. CBT-I is cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia, and you can read about it here:

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/insomnia/in-depth/insomnia-treatment/art-20046677

Alongside a sleep psychologist, you'll keep a sleep journal, which records your wake and sleep times and possibly mood and other variables. Your sleep psychologist will tailor a cognitive therapy to you based on your issues, including, but not limited to: stimulus control therapy, sleep restriction, sleep hygiene, sleep environment improvement, relaxation training, biofeedback, etc. I went through all of this, and it wasn't very successful for me, but I hope it works for your fiancée.

Drugs work initially, however, you will quickly develop tolerance to them. Doxylamine succinate (it's what's in Unisom; an antihistamine) is available online (Amazon), and it is very effective. If you do use it (25 mg), break the pill in half. The full dose is way too strong. The drawback is that the half-life (time for your body to break down half of the drug) is very long, and you'll probably be groggy in the morning-afternoon. Over-the-counter, you could also try:

1. Kava kava (https://www.amazon.com/NOW-Kava-250-120-Capsules/dp/B0013OSNA6/ref=sr_1_4_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1538843584&sr=8-4&keywords=kava+kava)
   
2. Valerian extract (https://www.amazon.com/Natures-Answer-Alcohol-Free-Valerian-2-Fluid/dp/B0014ATL8W/ref=sr_1_3_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1538843559&sr=8-3&keywords=valerian+extract)
   
   Prescription-wise, I've tried hydroxyzine (antihistamine), suvoxerant (orexin blocker), low-dose trazadone (antidepressant; off-label), and gabapentin (calcium channel blocker). I discontinued all of them either due to side effects or the develop of tolerance.
   
   I hope this helps. Let me know if you have any other questions!

Update: Dosed just over five grams by putting the powder in a water bottle with lime juice and water and shaking it all up, numbed my tongue with kava candy (highly recommend, after trying their sample pack I bought a full case) and chugged it down.

It's a fairly light effect, but I am pretty tolerant. I'm feeling goooood though, the music I'm listening to definitely took on that nice kratom sheen. I'll post a more detailed review for the site later and I'll probably post it here as well, but so far I'm giving it a solid thumbs up. I'm excited to use the tea bags either tomorrow night or Tuesday during "teacher work day" at my school.

I was diagnosed with Aspergers (for whatever that's worth) and have immense problems with anxiety, but I've been taking one teaspoon of Kava Kava stirred in some juice every night before bed and I could feel the difference literally the next morning. Even just after the first time taking it. Apparently, the results are not the same for everyone but I'm thinking it has something to do with me needing something to calm my nerves down. So it might help you as well. Doing a little research, its a ceremonial drink common in Hawaii that many use as an alternative to alcohol to obtain a "drunk" feeling. I have never tried more than a teaspoon at a time so I don't know much about that aspect. All I can say is that Kava is the best thing I have found to cure my anxiety ever. Far surpasses any doctors prescribed medication I have ever taken. Its all natural and it has a reverse tolerance, meaning you won't have to keep adding more to your dosage at night to keep the same feeling. Just one teaspoon mixed in a small glass of juice (can be any type of juice) each night before bed and that's it. If you miss a dose, it's not going to give you harsh side effects either.

I usually get it from Mountain Rose Herbs. They have excellent quality and prices. BUT, they are sold out right now.

You can find it on Amazon though as well but I can't attest to those brands.

Expensive, but the most potent, convenient form is in these caps:


http://www.amazon.com/Gaia-Herbs-Liquid-Phyto-Capsules-Count/dp/B00F1J7I8C/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1407708663&sr=8-1&keywords=kava+gaia


Kava feels great but don't do it too often or you'll get lethargic and have joint pains. I was warned of this firsthand in Fiji by natives and have felt it first hand. Great for the occasional chill out though.

BTW, the best dose is around 10 caps, after 30 mins or so have a salty, oily snack (tip from the natives). You should get a warm rush of "feel good" in the body that last for an hour or so.

Absolutely, a lot of what you've said has been my focus on the past few years, finding a delicate balance. Also finding tools that help. Meditation is an obvious one, but Kava tea has been helpful too. It is a nervous system depressant sometimes referred to as "nature's xanax". Probably sounds crass, but it's true. It's not like chamomile tea, this stuff has a proven active ingredient that works almost immediately. If you're interested in it this is the batch i just ordered and this is the shaker cup I use(although i don't use the ball it comes with). Use a blender with warm water for 2-3 minutes and pour through a strainer for best results. If you are interested and have questions about it I've become a bit of an aficionado on the topic so let me know.

Interesting Ive always thought of getting the tinctures but never have tell me if you like it. Keep in mind kava has a reverse tolerance so you may not feel it the first few days you try it. This is my go to kava tastes good and is pretty strong.

Thanks, will certainly look into it further. I am also interested in meditation and will be implementing it when this semester closes out and it makes sense to begin practicing. After doing research over the past 24 hours, I've come up with potential ideas for what I may begin using. If anyone can provide feedback or any notes on any of the following and dosage, it would be appreciated:

• Bacopa Monnieri - I wasn't sure if it's important to take the extract or the whole herb in capsule form
  
• L-Citrulline
  
• NAC - I read a recent study suggesting NAC may break down the BBB, but the unhealthy rats used seem faulty
  
• KSM-66
  
• Chelated Magnesium - I read chelated is the best in this case
  
  ​
  
  Each of these listed are all just ideas, I'm not sure what would be necessary and what wouldn't, just what I've gathered from reading. I have also considered Zembrine and I'm not sure if a dopamine supplement would be necessary for any reason, but if so I've looked at L-Theanine and Dopa Mucuna.
  
  ​
  
  In researching all of this, I've also found multivitamins created specifically for anxiety. Something like this seems it could be promising. Am I better off creating my own stack and taking supplements individually, or would the multivitamin option be something worth considering? Does anyone have any experience?

I love melatonin, it helps a lot when you have trouble getting to sleep. After about 4 hours though you might find yourself waking up, it's not meant to help you stay asleep.

I'm not much of a believer in herbal stuff as a general rule, but there's two herbs I think actually work: Kava Kava and Valerian root. This specific kind of Valerian root knocks me the fuck out and I stay out: http://www.gnc.com/GNC-Herbal-Plus-Standardized-Valerian-Root/product.jsp?productId=2133916. It's a really big dose and if I take it all the time I feel tired all day, but I tell you what, it works awesome to get a good night's rest.

Another thing that helps is mixing Valerian + Kava, that makes me feel nice and calm AND knocks me out (great for if you work out late at night). I use this kind (in tincture) http://www.amazon.com/Gaia-Herbs-KAVA-ROOT/dp/B0001THUV2

Hope those help.

Edit: though melatonin, I think, is considered safe I had a buddy of mine take it and say he felt really really depressed the day after. Just wanted to add a quick note to be careful with anything you try and start in small doses when trying something new.

Im super lazy so I dont do all the kneeding and such. I use an Aluball and simply fill it half way up ( something around 1.5-2 tbs ) with Kava and put it in a quart mason jar with warm water, shake for a minute or two and thats it. Im sure its not as efficient for getting all the good stuff but its easy and makes a good strong quart of Kava.

EDIT: Im also going through a taper and am down to 6.25 grams a day. Its been really tough to be honest but its the only way I can still function enough to work.

I feel like I should clarify. I think that talking to your Dr. about your anxiety is a great idea. There are some decent medication options that could help both your anxiety and your migraines. So it would be a good conversation to have.

My point above is that you should state that you are NOT interested in taking any benzos. But be open to other options. My rule is that I always do research on a medication before I start taking it. And I always start by googling [MedicationName Withdrawal] and see what comes up. Some Drs are all to quick to prescribe stuff without giving any thought to the fact that getting off of the medication is going to be painful.

Ok that said, here's my recommendation for some non-prescription stuff you can investigate to reduce your anxiety.

• Magnesium. This can be very calming.
  
• L-Theanine
  
• 5-HTP This may increase your levels of Serotonin. This can possibly make your migraines better or worse. Differs by the individual.
  
• Kava
  
• Valerian Root
  
• GABA I've heard that "PharmaGABA" is much more likely to be effective that plain old GABA. Do some research. I don't really know.
  
• The All-In-One There are a number of these formulations. They just combine a bunch of stuff listed above.
  
  
  So there's some stuff you should do some research on. Some may relieve your anxiety but make your migraines worse. Some may be beneficial for both anxiety and migraines. It'll really be a trial and error to find out what works for your 'migraine brain'.
  
  I've provided Amazon links, but you can honestly get most of these at your local Drug Store (CVS, Walgreens, etc.)
  
  Remember always do your research, whether its a recommendation from your Dr, or some internet stranger. It's all just data points. Digest it, research it, and then make your own decision on what's right for your situation. I wish you the best!!

I used to use a bag like this:

Kavafied Kava Strainer Bag https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0752Y9NFP/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_Tkp3BbDECETC8

I would fill the bag about 1/3 full with leaf. Next, I would let the bag soak in a large mason jar of water for a few days (use hot, but not quite boiling water). Once the leaf is very soft, I'd take the kratom tea out of the refrigerator and pour the tea into a big, stew pot. I'd warm the tea up so it's hot enough that I can touch it still, but just barely. Then, I'd knead the kratom in the bag. I mean knead the hell out of it until all the alkaloids were definitely pressed out. Basically, I squeezed and twisted the bag about 50 times and continually dunked the bag in the warm/hot tea.

When the leaf in the bag doesn't taste very strong anymore, I'd know the tea was ready and strong. That being said, I'd usually do one more step.

After throwing the leaves away, I'd place the stove on medium low and let the steam do its work for an hour or so. The tea gets more and more concentrated as long as the stove is on. Of course, it is possible to over heat it or completely evaporate the whole batch, so keep that in mind.

If you follow these steps, I think you'll be surprised how strong you can make some tea. It's better that you're doing this, than taking the dangerous stuff. Keep doing what you're doing until you know you're 100% ready to be done...it's ok to use kratom, it's truly a life saver for people who've been addicted to opioids.

I've taken each one of these supplements at different times and had success with each one. If I had endless amounts of money I would take all of them every day.

Life Seasons - Anxie-T - Anti Anxiety Support Supplements That Combat Stress - Calm and Stress Supplement - Feel More Relaxed - Contains Kava Kava, GABA, L-Theanine - Regular Size (60 Capsules) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B008KPZN4A/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_cY7RDbMDDDCN1

Gaia Herbs, Mushrooms + Herbs Cordyceps Plus, Energy Support, Organic Ashwagandha, Ginger Root, Cordyceps, Vegan Powder Capsules, 60 Count https://www.amazon.com/dp/B06XPH2YHZ/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_UW7RDbM9DK2JQ

Gaia Herbs Kava Kava Root, Vegan Liquid Capsules, 60 Count - Supports Emotional Balance, Calm & Relaxation, Guaranteed Potency 75mg Active Kavalactones https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00F1J7I8C/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_NY7RDbJ35V9Q3

I've found ashwaghanda to make me very sleepy, but it is good to take in the evening.

I agree that Kava can help immensely, if only to take a dose of something for mental purposes. I did not know they sold it at Walgreens though.

I purchased this from amazon and it was very good stuff. I also have a local place selling 2 pounds for like $40 but got a DUI a few weeks ago and can't drive over there :(

Update: I have since ordered another bag of the cocoa flavor in 8oz size. I know that kona is generally not recommended and that people respond differently to different vendors, I just wanted to share my experience. The cocoa flavor is not bad, I wouldn't say that it makes it taste better but it definitely doesn't make it taste worse. The problem with kona is that they don't really provide a "strain" but I can say that overall this is a pretty balanced Kava--very relaxing but not too "heady". As compared to my KWK Loa Waka that I have tried, the feeling of this is much more pleasurable. KWK Loa left me pretty sick feeling and in a weird sort of emotionless mood. I found it very hard to keep down. Just wanted to share this with anyone who has seen kona on Amazon but has been unsure about purchasing. I would reccommend as a good beginner kava. I am transitioning to medium grind now and just placed an order with Cactus, so I'll see how it compares.

​

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00PFFE3NK/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o01_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Most people find they like the raw, ground up root more than any extracts. I've come up with a few ways of dealing with the flavor that that work pretty well that I'll share with you.

You will want to buy from a reputably potent source; I haven't purchased any kava online as I'm fortunate enough to live near a health-food store that sells high-quality potent kava root by bulk, so I unfortunately can't help as well with that, but your research I'm sure will lead you to the best source.

You will also want to get some sort of Kava straining bag. Filtering the kava in one way or another to remove the sediment-like powder from the drink is imperative if you're planning on ever wanting to drink kava again, haha.

For flavor:
I find mint works pretty well, simply adding mint to the bag when you squoosh the kava around in the water during the steeping process. Going a step further, I'm actually experimenting with adding peppermint oil and organic coconut milk (the kind that separates into 1/2 cream, 1/2 watery coconut-ness) with Soy Lecithin as an emulsifier to help mask the kava flavor, with a little bit of unsweetened cocoa, dark-roast coffee or perhaps just coffee flavoring to give the mint and coconut some full-bodied zing.

Creamy flavored things seem to reduce the bitter, peppery tang that is a particularly potent part of kava's undesirable flavor, even things like Maca powder. After that, it's up to trying to figure out what goes well with "dirt chalk" taste.

Personally, I often find myself drinking concoctions of root powder mixed in water because I don't want to spend the time filtering it... I'm either hardcore or disgusting, up to the beholder

Hey, Sound_rage:

Firs of all, I'm sure that your trigger sounds extend to many beyond people. Is it anything repetitive or annoying that gets you? For me personally, I know that it's ANY piercing, stochastic noise.

Anti-anxiety medicine hasn't done much for me. I've tried a bit of gabapentin for restless legs syndrome, which also kind of helps if I'm triggered at night, but Valium or Ativan didn't do too much for me in a particularly triggering setting (3+ hour meetings with no option to leave with Mach 5 snifflers).

I'd suggest earmuffs over headphones in the short-term: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01DFAK64G/ref=sr_ph_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1481220598&sr=sr-1&keywords=earmuffs These are AMAZING, and I didn't study in a public place really ever before I found them.

Also, I'd maybe suggest giving kava kava (a pacific root-based anxiolytic) a try. It is a little hard to get into because it tastes terrible and is very difficult to dose, but I'd really recommend putting in the time to give it a shot if you're also generally anxious. It lets you study at the same time because it doesn't really dull the mind too much - how great! Here's a good starter brand: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00A7ANUKU/ref=sr_ph_1_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1481220924&sr=sr-1&keywords=kava

Also check out r/kava for this

And best of luck!!!!!

Kalm With Kava is a popular high-end brand.

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They do make medium grind powder, which you would need to strain. Squeezed or strained medium grind is what most people would refer to as traditional kava. In my experience, this is the more affordable way to go, and I end up feeling a cleaner and "fuller" experience. That being said, traditional prep requires a bunch of squeezing and kneading, and 5-15 minutes of your time.

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However, the Kalm With Kava product that you screenshotted is micronized kava.

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Micronized kava is generally more potent, it is an incredibly fine powder, and all you have to do is mix one or two tablespoons into whichever drink you prefer. I like preparing traditional kava with whole milk and I have done it with chocolate milk too, so it should definitely work fine with micronized.

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If convenience is a priority for you, then I would give what you posted a shot.

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If you want to try traditional filtered kava instead, there are quite a few good choices on Amazon, and a muslin strainer bag can be bought from there too.

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https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0752Y9NFP/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o05_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1 - strainer

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https://www.amazon.com/Wakacon-KAVA-Fijian-WAKA-powder/dp/B00A80163M/ref=sr_1_3?keywords=kava&qid=1557633453&s=gateway&sr=8-3

https://www.amazon.com/Dua-Na-Bilo-Premium-Fijian/dp/B01MSS0ATH/ref=sr_1_7?keywords=kava&qid=1557633691&s=gateway&sr=8-7

\^ affordable medium grinds

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https://www.amazon.com/Kava-Root-Farm-Fresh-Noble/dp/B011Z1PFB6/ref=sr_1_11?keywords=kava&qid=1557633715&s=gateway&sr=8-11

\^ medium grind Kalm With Kava

There's a bunch of decent places online. Bula Kava House. Gourmet Hawaiian Kava. Kalm With Kava. Those are higher end and quite pricey. There's a kava on Amazon called Wakacon which is relatively inexpensive and pretty good.

A lot of people use flavored almond milk to help mask the taste. The fats in the milk are also supposed to help extract kavalactones. I've gotten used to the taste myself. Just drink it all at once and chase with cold water.

I have something like this. I take in in a shot glass with a little water and chase it with strong green tea (for the theanine (also a psychoactive)). Sometimes coffee, but that gets interesting.

Recreational legal drug chat on /r/tea. woot.

Awesome, I will have to remeber that next time I order. Thanks!

I ordered http://www.amazon.com/Tongan-Kava-Root-Pouni-Kava-Kava/dp/B00TX2WJUA/ref=sr_1_1_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1457312603&sr=8-1&keywords=Kalm+with+Kava

Hopefully It wont give me nausea.

If you haven't checked it out already, r/kava is a pretty good sub for recommendations. All the kavas I've tried have tasted pretty similar (ie, peppery dirt) and have had similar effects, so when I was drinking it I used to get this stuff. It has its fans (and detractors), it does what kava should, and you can get one-day Prime shipping.

While costing slightly more per oz, Dua Na Bilo is a much better product.

Wakacon is regarded as quality, but weak in potency. Dua Na Bilo is constantly reviewed as one of the strongest kava's available at any price. If you'd like to read more about it, there are certainly posts here if you search and there's a lot on www.kavaforums.com

It's actually sold out very often so I was surprised Amazon even had any in stock right now. There is a limited supply because it all comes from one farm.

Amazon also sells Kava Waka. You get twice the amount for half the price, and the quality isn't too bad. It's not as good as Kalm, but it's worth it to save a few bucks.

Yeah, I just got a pound from amazon a couple weeks ago. It's great stuff. Potent, too.

Link to Kava Waka on Amazon

This is interesting, to say the least. It oddly sounds satisfying. Oh and try Kava Kava root for insomnia.

http://www.amazon.com/KAVA-WAKA-powder-Fijian-Quality/dp/B00A80163M/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1422419824&sr=8-1&keywords=kava+waka&pebp=1422419823458&peasin=B00A80163M

This stuff knocks me out every time. GET THIS!!!

Oh wow I can't believe I even read that wrong your wording is perfect! My bad! But if I remember correctly Walgreens does have kava, although not the one you want. I have tried every single kava item from Whole Foods(I know its not Walgreens) and the only one that works is this http://www.amazon.com/Gaia-Herbs-Liquid-Phyto-Capsules-Count/dp/B00F1J7I8C. The reason I believe that these work is because each capsule contains 225 mg of kavalactones and thats what I believe provides the effects. All the other capsules and tinctures have a fraction of that amount per dose. But the ones in Whole Foods cost $30 so you save a good amount of money if you order it!

I use this system at home. Just fill the ball, shake a minute or so, pour. Works for me! Easy cleanup, travel friendly. https://www.amazon.com/Kavafied-AluBall-Kava-Maker-Green/dp/B01CF5VEJI

Rhodiola Rosea is very similar. I would say almost interchangeable.

Kava Kava and L-Theanine are also great stress relievers. The Kava should be pure root, not leaf.

Ashwaganda never fails to get me sleepy, usually after a couple to 3 hours. Maybe it's just me or the brand I use.

https://www.amazon.com/700mg-Capsules-Methysticum-Extract-Supply/dp/B07B3PLXNY/

Is it noble?

EDIT: Just checked. It is. Here's a link. I'm going to give it a shot.

My go to rn is https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B01MSS0ATH/ref=ya_aw_oh_bia_dp?ie=UTF8&psc=1,lot of ppl on /r/kava were recommending. Definitely been meaning to buy from Bula. Loved GHK's moi but it's just to expensive for me

There's a shaker like a protein shaker on Amazon that works with Kava.
Something to consider. I haven't tried it yet though:

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01CF5VEJI?psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00

This stuff is good! Wakacon

Try kava kava. The easiest way to ingest it is through capsules. https://www.amazon.com/700mg-Capsules-Methysticum-Extract-Supply/dp/B07B3PLXNY/ref=sr_1_3?keywords=kava+capsules&qid=1564594025&s=gateway&sr=8-3

Tbh just looking for something cheap and effective for the withdrawls :p.

What do you think about this for my first try, it's third on your list.

I like Kava King:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00A7ANUKU/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&th=1

Gotta try squeezing fresh root, that other stuff is junk, I did the same thing, kava is LEGIT.

http://gourmethawaiiankava.com

Or even...

https://www.amazon.com/Wakacon-KAVA-Fijian-WAKA-powder/dp/B00A80163M/ref=sr_1_4_s_it?s=hpc&ie=UTF8&qid=1537101733&sr=1-4&keywords=kava

I take these at school to help with my anxiety Kava Stress Relief Candy from Hawaii Orange Flavor - 4 Pack https://www.amazon.com/dp/B008L5RJS2/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_28xJAbY26FGHR

Worth the money? Drink it as tea?

https://www.amazon.com/KAVA-WAKA-powder-Fijian-Quality/dp/B00A80163M

Any recommended brands of Kava? I was thinking about ordering this one https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01MSS0ATH/ref=ox_sc_sfl_title_3?ie=UTF8&psc=1&smid=A1DNAGLAPU6JWC

It's legal and safe, helps with anxiety. Severely helped getting over weed, but downvote away people.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B011Z1PFB6/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o02_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

..Ask the bar?

And get an aluball if you find traditional prep is too time consuming.

Aluball

Here’s the link: https://www.amazon.com/NOW-Kava-250-120-Capsules/dp/B0013OSNA6/ref=mp_s_a_1_5?keywords=kava+kava+capsules&qid=1558892680&s=gateway&sprefix=kava+&sr=8-5
Btw it says 250 mg but that means 250 mg of the kava extract which is composed of 30% kavalactones. And 30% of 250 is 75, so there is 75 mg of kavalactones per capsule.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00A80163M/ref=sxts1_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1474865424&sr=1

Kava Waka. $33 a pound.

Wakacon Fijian Kava

https://www.amazon.com/Kavafied-AluBall-Kava-Maker-Green/dp/B01CF5VEJI/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1498996866&sr=8-1-spons&keywords=aluball+kava+maker&psc=1

Nac-Acetyl Cysteine for nail-biting

http://www.amazon.com/Foods-Nac-Acetyl-Cysteine-600mg-Vcaps/dp/B0013OUQ3S

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23651231

*

Rhodiola for anxiety/stress

http://www.amazon.com/Foods-Rhodiola-Rosea-Capsules-500mg/dp/B005P0U7TY/ref=sr_1_1?s=hpc&ie=UTF8&qid=1412359579&sr=1-1&keywords=rhodiola

*****

Kava also works for anxiety, but made me feel slight dizzy/drunk

http://www.amazon.com/Foods-Extract-Stress-Support-Capsules/dp/B0013OSNA6/ref=sr_1_2?s=hpc&ie=UTF8&qid=1412359615&sr=1-2&keywords=kava

WAKACON PRO Premium KAVA Strainer Bag https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00N1B3RKA/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_MUrYCbEMK5VS7

The only label I can see online is this one: https://www.amazon.com/Kava-King-Vanuatu-Blend/dp/B00A7ANUKU This is supposed to be their unflavoured product, which I assumed is the "pure" one. As per label it contains fillers. I cannot remember if I've tried the lateral root one and I cannot find any pics of the list of ingredients online. In any it's no longer available, apparently.