Kava
"Kava is as close to the effects of Valium as one can get from a legal substance. It definitely is a direct muscle relaxant and definitely does it through the GABA receptors. However, there's no lassitude - no real euphoria or feeling of elation either - but to me that's the actual beauty of kava. It's GABAergic effect is most noticeable when taken during a time of discomfort.



Kava has quickly reversed full-blown panic attacks and also markedly reduced pain, probably because of it's direct muscle relaxation. I also sleep like a baby after taking it. But if one is looking for an upfront euphoria (i.e., a recreational drug) then that person is likely to think that kava does nothing."