Can kava replace alcohol?

Could you elaborate on the potential for Kava, a traditional South Pacific plant extract, to serve as a substitute for alcohol? Specifically, I'm interested in its effectiveness as a mood enhancer and stress reliever, compared to alcohol. How do the mechanisms of Kava compare to alcohol, in terms of the physiological and psychological effects they induce? Also, is there scientific evidence supporting Kava's use as an alternative to alcohol, particularly in social settings where alcohol consumption is common? Lastly, what are the potential risks or side effects associated with regular Kava use, and how do they compare to those of alcohol?