What is Kava?

Kava is a well-traveled plant of Oceania, where it is known in Hawai’i as ‘Awa. The words kava and ‘awa both roughly translate to bitter, and the drink made from this plant is indeed bitter. From the Kava shrub, the roots are grounded and squeezed in with water to create a drink similar to tea, which is also called kava. The kava’s earthy, bitter taste is an indication of good, natural medicine in our culture.

What are the Effects of Kava?

The botanical name of kava is piper methysticum, and it is part of the pepper family. Its natural, active ingredients are called Kavalactones, and the combination of the kavalactone compounds are what create the physiological and medicinal effects of kava. The effects of which are most generally a physical relaxation and mental clarity. The kavalactones are shown to interact with the brains limbic system, reducing feelings of anxiety, depression, and fear. This also materializes through the sensation of muscle relaxation and the initial slight numbing of the mouth and tongue. These are some of the effects of kava, but learning more about plant medicine, kava, its history, and use can provide deeper, more meaningful, and long lasting impacts.

How do I to use Kava?

Historically, kava, or ‘awa in Hawaiian culture, is not only considered a medicinal drink but also a ceremonial, sacred offering. It is commonly known as the drink of the gods. It is one of the staple plants brought to Hawai’i on canoes through the Pacific, and thus it is a drink that has served to unite peoples, chiefs, farmers, hula practitioners, and Polynesian cultures. Kava is a cultural link and spiritual unifier.

Like any plant medicine, the best way to use it is intentionally. Kava, like other plant medicines, have the ability to offer mental, physical, and spiritual aid given the proper intention. If the intention isn’t clear, the best way to utilize kava is to simply show awareness to the plant and drink itself as a natural medicine and then keep an open the heart to its healing.

To revere medicine and foods as sacred and to use them intentionally are major steps towards holistic, integrated health and reclaiming indigenous worldviews. The more we learn of the plant, such as its historical use, its effects, and the meaning of its name, the more we are able to connect to its function and the possible impacts it may serve in our lives. Understand that kava has been revered by many cultures for centuries and still is. Simply acknowledging this history is showing recognition to the plant medicine and enables the medicine to work in harmony with your body.

This is the basis of how to use kava. Otherwise, enjoy using kava through tinctures or drinks. Enjoy and use kava with family and friends, by yourself, or with nature. If you understand its sacred offering, you are using kava rightly.