Piper methysticum leaf/root/stem extract is the cosmetic
ingredient name for a material derived from the leaves, roots, and stems of the
Piper methysticum G. Forster plant, commonly known as kava
kava. This and other kava-derived ingredients are used as skin-conditioning
agents at concentrations from 0.0001% to 0.1%. The Food and Drug Administration
issued a consumer advisory in 2002 expressing concern about liver damage in
individuals who have ingested kava products. The available oral toxicity data
support the concern about liver damage on ingestion but do not resolve the
question, for example, whether these ingredients would be substantially absorbed
through the skin. Other data needs are described, including toxicology data for
yangonin, methysticin, and kavain, which may be present in kava-derived
ingredients. Accordingly, the available data are insufficient to support the
safety of these ingredients in cosmetics.
FDA. Consumer advisory:
Kava-containing dietary supplements may be associated with severe liver injury.
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