What is a common side effect of kava?

Kava, a beverage made from the root of the kava plant, is primarily known for its calming effects. A common side effect associated with kava consumption is dizziness. This can occur as a result of its sedative properties, which may affect balance and coordination. The active compounds in kava, known as kavalactones, interact with neurotransmitter systems in the brain, leading to both anxiolytic (anxiety-reducing) and potentially impairing effects. This is particularly relevant when kava is consumed in higher doses or in combination with other substances that depress the central nervous system.

Other options, while they may pertain to user experiences with different substances, are not prominently tied to kava. Insomnia and excitability, for instance, contradict kava's generally calming effects, and weight gain is not a recognized side effect of kava consumption in scientific literature. Thus, dizziness is the most commonly reported side effect when discussing the implications of kava use.