What is Kava? Benefits, Uses, and How It Works

Kava is a tropical shrub native to the South Pacific islands like Fiji, Vanuatu, Tonga and Samoa. Scientifically known as Piper Methysticum, this plant has been used in many cultural ceremonies for centuries. The roots of the Kava plant are dried and ground into a fine powder, which is mixed with water to prepare a Kava drink. 

The plant consists of Kavalactones, which are active compounds and are responsible for the effects you may feel after taking Kava drinks. Earlier, people used to make Kava tea with the roots of the Kava plant, but now they have discovered many interesting recipes to use Kava in their day-to-day lives. 

Kava has spread from the Pacific Islands to many parts of the world. While some people value traditional methods, others embrace modern twists on this plant. From powders to shots, take a look at some of the most popular kava products you can find in the market: 

• Kava Powders

• Kava Extracts

• Kava Shots

• Kava Tea

Many of you must be unaware of the fact that Kava actually stands for “bitter” in the Tongan and Marquesan languages. This magical plant has been cultivated in Fiji, Vanuatu, Tonga, and the Samoa Islands for thousands of years. Kava grows best in the warm and humid climate of the South Pacific islands. 

It thrives best in rich, well-drained volcanic soils, where steady rainfall and mild temperatures help its roots develop unique potency and flavors. Initially, the roots were ground, soaked, and strained to make a traditional drink, which was often used in cultural ceremonies and as a healing ritual. Kava is not just a simple beverage; it’s an integral part of our culture.

Although Kava has made its place in the modern world through new recipes, did you know it played a significant role in the cultural ceremonies of the Pacific Islands? Yes, it did! Earlier, Kava was offered to guests as a welcome drink during ceremonies and during important events. People used Kava drinks as a sign to show harmony and connection amongst themselves. Even today, after so many years, it has not lost its cultural significance and continues to remain a tradition amongst South Pacific Islanders. 

When people search for “what is kava?” on the internet, they also search “what makes Kava so effective?” The answer lies in its compounds, known as Kavalactones. Kavalactones are the active ingredients found in the Kava root, which is responsible for the effect you may feel in your body. 

These compounds basically work by interacting with neurotransmitters in our brain and might help relax the nervous system [1], and you may feel calming [2] effects. Kavalactones increase the activity of GABA, a natural calming chemical in our brain, and slightly boost the dopamine levels. 

According to some scientists, the Kava plant contains various kavalactones. Amongst all, there are a few of them that make up the majority of Kava’s profile: kavain, dihydrokavain, methysticin, dihydromethysticin, yangonin, and desmethoxyyangonin.Each of these is responsible for shaping Kava’s properties and how you feel after taking it. 

Kava has made its way into the world of botanicals, with both traditional and modern forms. Today, people love how convenient it is to drink Kava in various forms:

• Kava root powder: This is the most traditional form, which is used for brewing soothing [3] Kava teas. 

• Kava shots: They are basically concentrated drinks meant for people who like mild euphoric [4] effects. These easy-to-drink Kava shots have become popular among people for their fast-absorbing formula and incredible flavors. 

• Instant Kava drinks: These drinks are a modern twist to traditional Kava. They are made by mixing water and might be the perfect drink when you need a quick relaxation [5] fix. 

• Kava capsules and tablets: These tablets and capsules are great for beginners who don’t want the hassle of mixing and preparing Kava powder. You can simply take one and enjoy the consistent effects. 

After you have an answer for “what is kava?” knowing its legal status is equally important. Just like other botanicals in the market, Kava’s legal status also depends on the state where you live. Kava is legal in many countries, like the U.S., Australia, and parts of Europe, but with few restrictions. On the other hand, the U.K. and Canada have much stricter laws on the sale and import of Kava due to safety concerns. Therefore, if you are planning to purchase Kava, don’t forget to go through all the rules and regulations thoroughly. 

Now that you know the basics of Kava, let’s take you through the key benefits of Kava so that you know what to expect: 

• Quick fix for sleep: Feeling tired after a long day at work? We might just have the perfect fix to help you sleep [6] peacefully after a long day. Kava might help all our fellow work professionals to get rid of insomnia and get refreshed for the next day. 

• Reduces anxiety and stress: People who often suffer from anxiety [7] and want to relieve stress [8], then Kava might be a good option for you. It might relax your muscles [9] after a tiring day. 

• Improves mood: Kava might not only boost your mood [10], but it may also release a sense of happiness [11] on days when you are feeling extremely low. 

• Enhanced focus: If you also struggle to focus [12] during important tasks and want something non-addictive, then Kava might help you save the day. 

We know that Kava has many benefits, it is important to be aware of the potential side effects as well: 

• Kava’s calming and relaxing effects may sometimes make you feel dizzy or drowsy. 

• You may notice dry and yellowish colored skin. 

• If you mistakenly take synthetic Kava with additives and harmful ingredients, then it may cause digestive problems like indigestion or nausea. 

• Lastly, if not used in moderation, then you may face liver problems as well. 

To wrap it up, Kava is not like your other usual botanicals; it has been a part of the tradition for centuries now. But now it has found its way into the modern world as well. From natural calming effects to relaxing properties, Kava has now become a go-to for many people around the world. It is more than just a herbal drink; it is a modern take on a traditional plant. This century-old tradition is still loved by people, endlessly, so if you are still asking around people “What is kava?” then you are surely missing out on something flavorful. 

The effects generally start to show around 10-15 minutes after you finish drinking Kava. But it also varies from person to person and the amount of Kava you have taken.

Kava drink is a traditional beverage made from the roots of the kava plant, found in the South Pacific islands. This drink is simply prepared by grinding or pounding the roots into a powdered form. Later, it is mixed with water and strained to produce an earthy and bitter-flavored drink. 

Kava has a natural and earthy taste. It might also taste slightly bitter and have a peppery flavor. But you can always mix Kava with other beverages to make your own favorite Kava drink. 

You should always shop from reputable brands that sell clean and safe products. Don’t forget to check the labeling list for any suspicious ingredients. Avoid products that are not sourced authentically or are synthetically produced. 

Yes, absolutely, you can mix a Kava shot with water, juice, or milk to create your own unique recipe. You can even adjust the flavor and create different Kava teas and smoothies. 

Kava is available in most specialty or convenience stores. But if you are unable to find good options offline, then you may try searching through online vendors like MIT Therapy. You will definitely find your desired products on their website, and that too of excellent quality.