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Head-to-head evidence comparison — which supplement is right for you?
Kava wins 2 of 3 categories. Both are solid choices — the best pick depends on your specific goals.
Verdict
Probably helps
4 of 7 studies with measurable effects showed benefit.
Top outcomes
Verdict
Likely helps
4 of 4 studies with measurable effects showed benefit.
Top outcomes
Shared outcomes (2)
Outcomes where both Kava and Passionflower have evidence — compare verdict strength side-by-side.
150-300mg kavalactones daily
Evening for relaxation, 30-60 minutes before stressful events, Before bed for sleep
Water-extracted root powder or capsules
250-500mg extract (or 2g dried herb)
For anxiety: as needed, For sleep: 30-60 minutes before bed
Standardized extract capsules
30-60 minutes
30-60 minutes
30-60 minutes
1-2 hours
30 min - 2 hours
30-60 minutes
30-60 minutes
Herbal medicines in the treatment of psychiatric disorders: 10-year updated review
Phytotherapy research : PTR (2018) · Systematic review
Other encouraging herbal medicines with preliminary evidence include Curcuma longa (turmeric) in depression, Withania somnifera (ashwagandha) in affective disorders, and Ginkgo biloba (ginkgo) as an adjunctive treatment in Schizophrenia.
GABA-modulating phytomedicines for anxiety: A systematic review of preclinical and clinical evidence
Phytotherapy research : PTR (2018) · Systematic review
An open-ended search to 5 July 2017 was conducted using MEDLINE (PubMed), Scopus, and Cochrane library online databases and performed in a stepped format from preclinical to clinical investigations.
Herbal medicine for insomnia: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Sleep medicine reviews (2015) · Meta analysis · n=1602
There was no statistically significant difference between any herbal medicine and placebo, or any herbal medicine and active control, for any of the thirteen measures of clinical efficacy.
Herbal Remedies and Their Possible Effect on the GABAergic System and Sleep
Nutrients (2021) · Systematic review
Gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) is an inhibitory neurotransmitter that plays a major role in controlling different vigilance states.
Passiflora incarnata in Neuropsychiatric Disorders-A Systematic Review
Nutrients (2020) · Systematic review
Passiflora incarnata may be helpful in treating some symptoms in neuropsychiatric patients.
Herbal medicine for depression and anxiety: A systematic review with assessment of potential psycho-oncologic relevance
Phytotherapy research : PTR (2018) · Systematic review
Overall, 45% of studies reported positive findings with fewer adverse effects compared with conventional medications.
Based on multiple meta-analyses showing efficacy vs placebo with effect size comparable to benzodiazepines for mild-moderate anxiety. WS1490 extract showed OR=3.3 vs placebo. Effectiveness limited to 60% due to mixed results in some GAD populations and study quality limitations.
Based on meta-analysis of 198 subjects noting insufficient RCT data for definitive conclusions. Effectiveness limited by small sample sizes and study quality limitations. Drowsiness is primary dose-limiting side effect.
AI-estimated from published studies. Interpret as directional guidance.
Kava has a higher evidence score (9/10 vs 8/10) and wins in 2 of 3 categories.
For reduce anxiety & stress, Kava has a higher relevance score (90 vs 85).
No known interactions between Kava and Passionflower have been documented in our database. However, always consult a healthcare provider before combining supplements.