Hawaiian potion has side effects

Your article about awa [“Relax, It’s Awa,” Special Issue, March 18] was quite interesting, especially with regard to the increase in awa bars in vacation spots. Although the historical information was accurate, I am concerned that there was no mention of potential serious side effects. The Food and Drug Administration as well as the Centers for Disease Control have published warnings about potential links of kava to liver failure. Also, many evidence-based herbal references state that kava has depressant, muscle-relaxing, intoxicating effects that could impair driving.

VICKI SWEET

Capistrano Beach

The writer is a registered nurse.