Kava, or Kava Kava is the traditional sacramental brew of Polynesia, and has been shown to medically effective in elevating mood and reducing stress. It comes from a root and can be made into a drink form, or “kava tea”.

Kava is mildly narcotic and produces mild euphoric changes characterized by elevated mood, fluent and lively speech and increased sense of sound. And it is legal (except in Canada and France). Kava is a relaxing botanical herb. Pharmacological studies show kava kava’s active ingredients, kavalactones, produce physical and mental relaxation and a feeling of well being. It has also been used in the treatment of ailments of the genitourinary tract including vaginitis, gonorrhea and menstrual cramps. Kava is a diuretic and an anti-inflammatory, thus useful for gout, rheumatism, bronchial congestion, cystitis and prostatis. It is an effective local anesthetic and pain reliever when applied externally as a liniment. The relaxed state and sharpening of senses also contribute to aphrodisiac effect.

Kava beverages are usually made from Kava root powder. The root powder is soaked in water, then blended to release the kavalactones, then the pulp is strained and discarded. Often coconut water, coconut milk, lemongrass, cocoa, sugar, or soy milk is added to improve flavor. To make a stronger kava drink, add 4 tablespoons of olive oil and two tablespoons of liquid lecithin or coconut milk to the original blend of powder and liquid. Some of the kavalactones are more oil-soluble than water-soluble. Milk, with natural fats, is actually a better medium for kava than water.

Kava is a first-rate sedative, muscle relaxant, analgesic and mood enhancer – but don’t be surprised if your lips and tongue go numb! Kava is a powerful local anesthetic with potency similar to that of cocaine and procaine, so drink with caution. 

Kava Kava Root Powder Kava powder is often used in modern preparation of Kava tea. 1 lb. of Kava root powder for $20.76.

Kava Kava Root Cut & Sifted Kava is the traditional sacramental brew of Polynesia, and has been shown to medically effective in elevating mood and reducing stress. 1 lb. of cut and sifted Kava for $20.16.