Important note: Information in this article was accurate in February 2002. The state of the art may have changed since the publication date. 
Health Canada is advising consumers not to use kava-kava (commonly called kava) or kava-containing products until it has completed a safety review of this herb. Kava and its extracts are commonly used to treat the following conditions:
Health Canada has issued this advisory because of reports of severe liver damage among kava users in Germany and Switzerland. In those countries, there have been at least 25 cases of adverse effects possibly related to kava usage. At least one person has required a liver transplant. It is noteworthy that in at least 18 of the 25 cases, kava users were also taking prescription and non-prescription medication with the potential to cause liver damage.
The situation elsewhere is as follows:
Kava has had a relatively good safety profile in Canada with no cases of liver toxicity being reported in this country. Health Canada advises consumers to "consult with their health care practitioner if they have experienced any adverse effects from taking products containing kava." The following signs/symptoms may be associated with liver problems:
Health care practitioners are being asked to report to regulatory authorities any cases of liver toxicity in association with kava-containing products, at the following toll-free numbers:
REFERENCES
1.http://www.hc-sc.gc.ca/english/protection/warnings/2002/2002_02e.htm>
2.http://www.fda.gov/medwatch/SAFETY/2001/Kava_deardoc.PDF
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