While kava tea is a popular drink in certain cultures, it may be better to stick to products that have been proven to improve well-being, like green tea, ginseng and herbal supplements. Researchers at the University of Rochester Medical Center recently reported that kava-based beverages may cause kidney damage.

In a case report published in the American Journal of Emergency Medicine, a team of medical specialists stated that they were initially baffled when they were called in to examine a 34-year-old bicyclist who had collapsed at the roadside.

After analyzing the patient’s blood and taking his medical history, the team determined that the cause of his ills was the regular use of kava tea, which is a brew made using Piper methysticum, a plant found on West Pacific islands.

Kava is traditionally taken by Pacific Islanders as a way to relax. However, researchers said extracts from the plant may be harmful, and they cautioned against its use.

Rather than taking an untested plant extract, or one that has debatable effects, it may be better to consider trying herbal and vitamin supplements that have been proven to contribute to overall health and wellness.