Modern life is often fast-paced and riddled with stressors—a nagging boss or pressures at work, traffic and noise, busy schedules, the high cost of living, just to name a few. With the demand for natural wellness solutions, kava kava has become a go-to remedy for millions of Americans due to its effective relaxing and calming properties and low-risk profile.
So we had our plant wellness experts here at Real Botanicals gather some common questions, misconceptions, tips, and guidance on this unique botanical substance.
We'll answer:
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What is Kava, or Kava Kava? Where it comes from and how it is used.
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The best Kava Kava products to use, and how.
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Optimal doses for pleasure and health.
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Modern trends for this ancient remedy.
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And more in this complete Kava guide.
What is Kava Kava?
Kava kava, scientifically known as Piper methysticum, is a tropical, herbal plant native to the South Pacific Islands. The Kava plant requires specific growing conditions like volcanic nutrient-rich soils, plenty of water, and partial shading. The plants are carefully cultivated so their root systems are healthy and full of active compounds called kavalactones.
The active kavalactones are responsible for the calming, social, and mood-boosting effects that people feel when they drink prepared kava drinks. Traditionally, kava drinks enhanced social gatherings or ceremonial practices in the Pacific Islands. Kava root was given as a gift to people who traveled to the Pacific islands as a way to extend friendliness and welcome. That same welcoming spirit still inspires kava plant use today.
What is Kava Drink?
Most people take kava in drink form. Making kava drink started many years ago. The South Pacific locals either masticated (chewed) the kava root, or sun-dried the kava roots and ground them into a fine powder. The powder was mixed with water, kneaded, then strained to produce a milky liquid ripe with active kavalactones. The cup was passed around as the most respected elders drank first.
Modern Use of Kava Kava Root
In recent decades, the Western world has become more interested in kava's potential therapeutic effects. Today, kava use still inspires relaxation, meditativeness, social connection, and a sense of earthy healing and is made into kava drinks—kava milk, kava tea, or kava "mocktails.
Western kava consumption is less ceremonial and more taste-oriented, with many kava drinks being made with sweeteners or juice. In the West, kava is embraced as a plant-based alternative to conventional stress-relieving options. Although kava is not approved for the treatment of specific conditions or other social disorders, some people may find it appealing as a way to feel more socially relaxed.
Kava is also enjoyed in place of alcoholic beverages at home, with friends, or at a kava bar. Be sure to read our list of the best kava drink recipes!
How Does Kava Kava Make You Feel?
Six main kavalactones contribute to its varying properties and benefits. The concentration of these active compounds in a kava strain determines its overall effects. Kava's effects are fairly predictable and consistent, and increase with the amount of kava that you consume:
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Initial sensations are a tingling of the lips, tongue, and throat. (This is normal and not harmful.)
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A sense of relaxation & comfort.
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A pleasurable social feeling. Many people enjoy taking kava with friends.
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Kava may also help you unwind for bed.
Kava belongs to the pepper family, and its roots absorb minerals and nutrients from underground, making its raw powder have a bitter, earthy taste. Experienced users enjoy kava's natural, unique flavor, while others mix the powder with other ingredients like honey or coconut milk to make it more palatable.
Take caution after drinking kava when driving a motor vehicle or operating machinery as kava may produce sleepiness or grogginess, depending on how much of it you consume.
Use of Kava: Effects on the Body and Mind
Kava influences specific neurotransmitters in the brain to manage stress, mood, alertness, and overall cognitive function. Kavalactones interact with GABA receptors to lower stress and tension levels while working to promote a peaceful, balanced state. These kavalactones also regulate the release of dopamine, a neurotransmitter linked to mood, pleasure, and motivation.
Kava may also have natural muscle-relaxing properties—and may reduce muscle tightness or aches, leaving you relaxed and happy. You can also use kava to lower physical and mental discomfort and enhance better sleep. Overall, kava's effects on the mind and body result in an elevated sense of well-being.
Applications & Benefits of Kava Kava
Because of the benefits associated with kava, there are many ways you can use it. Whether kava appeals to you for its calming properties or simply because you like the way it makes you feel, it's good to know the herbal remedy drink can be used at any time of the day for smooth effects and calming benefits.
Let's take a closer look at the possible perks you may find in this tropical-inspired drink.
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Kava Kava for Relaxation: Kava's powerful relaxing properties lie in its kavalactones. These compounds interact with specific brain receptors to promote relaxation, raise mood, and support cognitive function.
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Kava for Stress: Kava may make you feel more relaxed and calm, the perfect ending to a stressful day. Calming kavalactones may promote a sense of contentment and cheerfulness.
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Kava for Discomfort: When you suffer stress and tension, it makes sense that a soothing kava drink may help you relax, thereby releasing the tension and discomfort that keeps you from getting things done or enjoying a restorative night's rest..
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Kava to Boost Sociability: Say yes to social fun, knowing kava won't give you the awful hangovers that alcohol does. Just good, clean, calming effects for hours. Try our 150mg kratom kava shot for the perfect on-the-go social solution!
Curious about kratom vs kava? Both botanicals have their place in your holistic wellness routine and are even more effective when paired.
Is Kava Safe?
Kava has been used for centuries and is generally considered safe in moderation and is typically well-tolerated by the body. Responsible use and moderation are advised since kava, like other botanical supplements, medications or herbs, must be metabolized by the liver and liver enzymes.
Kava may increase the effects of other central nervous system depressants, so be mindful of what you take when you are consuming kava kava products or extracts of kava.
Many people compare kava and alcohol, and choose kava as a less problematic way to relax and gather with others. It's important to note that the liver hepatotoxicity of kava is unknown as compared to the known liver damage that can come with repeated or long-term use of alcoholic beverages. If liver damage is of concern, speak with your medical professional before consuming kava or any other botanical wellness supplement.
The Food and Drug Administration has expressed its concerns and cites limited scientific evidence supporting its safety profile. But with so much long-standing and trusted anecdotal testimony, it's clear that kava use is well-trusted.
How to Use for the Best Kava Effects
You can consume kava in several ways depending on your preferences and lifestyle. In fact, kava comes in a versatile selection of types:
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Traditional kava drinks (called kava tea): Made from raw, ground kava kava root powder and water (strained). These can also come pre-packaged—like our kratom and kava shot available here!
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Kava kava micronized powders or instant kava powders: These suspend well in water and do not need to be strained out.
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Kava kava capsules or pill supplements: Powders, encapsulated or pressed into pill or tablet form).
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Kava extracts and tinctures: Highly concentrated liquids without the powdered parts of the plant.
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Pre-packaged Kava tea bags: Popular, easy, and convenient but often weaker. Often these are labeled as stress-reducing teas.
Want an even more exciting way to take kava? Try pairing it with kratom in these Kratom and Kava Shots for more pronounced effects.
Exploring Kava Drink Effects & Kava Dosage
Does kava affect people differently? You bet. Like other botanicals, our bodies interact differently based on many factors in our physiology. The quality of your kava also affects your experience. Be sure to buy kava called "noble kava" which means it is of high quality.
Whether you want deep relaxation, improved sociability or a better night's rest, you can tailor your experience to match your unique needs. To find your perfect kava dosage:
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Thoroughly read the package instructions on your kava product.
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If you are working with raw kava root powders, one dose may range from one teaspoon to one tablespoon per 8-oz beverage, depending on the strength you want.
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Consider your body's sensitivity and err on the side of the strength you want.
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After you drink your kava beverage, note how you feel and about how long it lasts for you.
Kava is more effective and may kick in quicker if you take kava on an empty stomach. The effects of kava begin with that first tingly sensation on your palate to the soothing properties which kick in around 30-45 minutes.
Kava Kava Information: Side Effects & Risks
You can have an enjoyable and beneficial kava journey when you know how to use it like a pro. Most undesirable reactions or risks manifest because of unawareness of kava effects, proper dosage, potential drug interaction, or simply irresponsible consumption. You may have side effects if you take too much kava or if you just happen to be sensitive to the effects of the kavalactones. Either way, watch out for these possible side effects:
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Drowsiness or fatigue
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Dry mouth
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Dizziness
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Nausea or stomach discomfort
More serious effects are possible with heavy, chronic, or long-term use:
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Dry skin with dark patches or scaliness
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Possible tolerance
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Potential for liver damage or liver toxicity
Avoid these unwanted effects by sticking to informed kava usage. The most critical aspects are accurate dosage and sourcing products from premium brands.
Due to possible effects, kava is not for everyone. Consider skipping on this botanical if you have liver disease, a history of liver or kidney issues, are pregnant or breastfeeding, or have other health complications like Parkinson's, low blood pressure, heart disease, or take prescribed drugs for any of these conditions. If you have these conditions, it's best not to take kava unless your doctor says it's ok for you. Try these kratom capsules instead!
Is Kava Addictive?
Kava is not addictive since it does not change the brain chemistry in ways that lead to irresistible consumption or withdrawal symptoms. In rare cases, people may develop psychological dependence due to frequent use that's become a habit.
How Long Does Kava Stay in Your System?
The active effects of kava generally last a few hours with peak effects experienced in 1-2 hours. Because it is believed the half-life of kava is about 9 hours, it's generally considered "out of your system" in about a day. Your metabolism and health are also factors in how quickly your body processes kava.
Where to Buy Kava
You've probably seen kava in a store near you since it's legal in all 50 US states, but you may want to find a reputable online kava provider. This is because many store owners who sell kava may not necessarily know much about it. A good kava vendor will be able to answer any questions you may have about how to use kava for the best results – check out where you can find kava near me here.
Real Botanicals sources its kava directly from the South Pacific Islands, where it is sustainably and organically grown. We perform in-house production from testing, manufacturing, and labeling to packaging. This promises top-shelf kava!
Check out all the Real Botanicals products for the best kava, 7 hydroxy shots, and other herbal supplements.
Kava Bars: A Growing Trend
The growing interest in natural-based wellness, relaxation, and healthier lifestyles fueled the emergence of kava bars. These kava bars are an Americanized extension of traditional South Pacific gatherings and ceremonies for kava consumption. These establishments offer a unique way to unwind and an alternative to alcohol-focused evenings and nightlife.
What is a Kava Bar?
A kava bar is a specialized social venue that sells kava-based beverages. Kava bars may sell traditional kava drinks, kava mocktails, shots made with kava drops, kava teas, kava smoothies, and flavored kava drinks, or fancy drinks called kava nectar.
Many kava bars incorporate Pacific Island-inspired décor, comfortable seats, dim lighting, and soothing music to promote relaxation and social bonding. Kava bars flourish in cities across the world, beach towns, and in other social scenes.
In kava bars, the botanical is consumed in comfy, lounge-like settings designed to mimic a casual bar or coffee shop. This allows consumers to enjoy and experience kava in a friendly, relaxed, social atmosphere. While traditional kava was used for social bonding, spiritual rituals, and other ceremonies under strict cultural traditions, modern kava bars embrace a variety of kava users to connect through their shared interest in the relaxing herb.
Our Final Thoughts on Kava Kava
Kava is a long-used herbal supplement with modern day applications like relaxation, social ease, and as a great way to unwind down without drinking alcohol. Relaxing after a busy day is made easy with a refreshing, soothing kava beverage in your own home or out at a kava bar with friends. Incorporate kava kava into your wellness routine and enjoy kava's smooth appeal without feeling overly intoxicated or suffering from the hangovers of alcoholic beverages.
If you are new to this herbal supplement, start with a small dose and build up gradually until you find your sweet spot. The best time to drink kava is anytime you're ready to relax, enjoy some time communing with nature (or friends!) or during your wind down time before bed. Be sure to check out how kratom and kava can work together for a smooth blend of wellness perfection!
Real Botanicals guarantees high-quality kava and other botanical solutions like our line of 7-hydroxymitragynine products. All our plant-based products are made with care in our GMP-certified facility, third-party tested for purity, and packaged to protect their freshness. When you're ready to expand your botanical care at home or on the go, we're here with the clean and effective products you need.