Kava, also known as Piper Methysticum, is a plant native to the South Pacific islands. It has been used for centuries in traditional medicine practices by indigenous cultures in the South Pacific for its calming and relaxing effects. In recent years, kava has gained popularity in the Western world for its potential medicinal properties, leading to increased research into its potential health benefits. Kava contains several active compounds, including kavalactones, which are thought to be responsible for its potential medicinal properties.
Kava is a shrub that can grow up to six meters in height. It has large, heart-shaped leaves and small, green or yellow flowers. The plant is native to humid, tropical climates and grows best in well draining, nutrient dense soil with plenty of air flow and rain. It favors temperatures of 70–95 °F (21–35 °C) and 70–100% humidity. Kava shrubs tend to produce approximately 50 kg (110 lb) of root material that is able to be harvested.
The kava root has two distinct sections. First is the lateral root, which are slender roots that are similar to common plant roots. Lateral roots contain the largest concentration of the bioactive compounds. The other section is known as the crown/basal root, which is a thick mass that resides at the base of the plant. Traditionally, plants are harvested around four years of age, as older plants have higher concentrations of Kavalactones.
Kava has a long history of use for medicinal, religious, cultural, and social practices in the Pacific Islands, particularly in Hawaiʻi, Vanuatu, Fiji, and other places within Polynesia and Melanesia. Indigenous groups have great respect for the plant.
Kava is commonly used in traditional ceremonies and social gatherings. It is consumed in drink form, made from the ground kava root that is worked into water. The milky liquid is served in a coconut shell or other vessel. Kava drinking ceremonies were often accompanied by chanting, music, and dancing.
The largest number of Kava cultivars are grown in the Republic of Vanuatu, which is recognized as the “home” of kava. Historically, Kava was only found to be grown in the Pacific islands of Hawaii, Federated States of Micronesia, Vanuatu, Fiji, the Samoas and Tonga.
You can buy kava as an instant powder, traditional kava powder, root, or extract form. Preparation is dependent on its purchased form.
Kava use can have side effects, including dizziness, drowsiness, and headache. Long-term use of kava may also cause liver damage, so individuals with liver problems should avoid using kava. It is very important to prepare kava correctly to avoid liver damage. Kava may also interact with medications, such as antidepressants, anti-anxiety medications, and sedatives.
This product has not been approved by the Food and Drug Administration and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any diseases. We recommend that you consult with a qualified healthcare practitioner before using any herbal products, particularly if you are pregnant, nursing, or on any medications.
