Combinations - Kava kava (tranquilizer) and Caffeine (stimulant)

[Richi]

Why does it seem that the traditional rule about not mixing 'uppers and downers' does not apply here?

I say this because many sources openly advocate consuming coffee with kava to counter-act the sleepy effects it evokes.

[EDIT] It would appear to be so because Caffeine affects the cAMP pathways, which control the metabolism of sugar and other biochemical processes. Whereas traditional stimulants such as cocaine or methamphetamine affect serotonin and dopamine levels in the brain. If someone could shed more light it would be greatly appreciated. [/EDIT]

[Panthers007]

Kava~Kava's physiological actions are more similar to benzodiazepines (Valium, Xanax, etc.) than to central nervous system depressants such as the barbituates. And, in fact, there were pills manufactured that did combine amphetamines with depressants - Dexamyl (amobarbitol and dexedrine), and Biphetamine-T (dl, and d-amphetamine with methaqualone (Quaalude). These were taken off the market due to abuse potential, and not due to toxicity.

I doubt caffeine with Kava~Kava presents any real danger. Caffeine is not a central nervous system stimulant. It works on the sympathetic nervous system to create it's jangling effects. But I don't know why anyone would want to mix them together in the first place. Yuck.

[enquirewithin]

(Panthers007 beat me too it whilst I was editing!) Yes, some vendors even sell such products, such as kava and gurana. Mixing mild stimulants and narcotics may not be too dangerous? Some sources are irresponsible!

Possibly, in other cases, mixing 'downers' with 'downers is more dangerous-- eg, alcohol and barbiturates.