What Does Kava Taste Like? The Real Truth Behind Kava Taste

What Does Kava Taste Like? The Real Truth Behind Kava Taste

Posted by Real Botanicals on

The secret is out. Yes, for most humans with working taste buds, kava tastes, well...bad.

Like, weird, dirt-like, bitterly bad.

Regardless, we LOVE kava beverages! It's not oxymoronic; it's just a fact. Kava is worth the tingles and bitterness on your tongue. Today, we're explaining why.

We'll share...

  • What to expect when you try kava for the first time.

  • Our best tips for improving your kava experience.

  • How to make your kava drink recipes taste way better.

  • And why this intense beverage is totally worth the hype.

What Does Kava Really Taste Like?

This question is not so easy to answer. For one, taste buds vary from person to person, as well as their interpretation of kava's taste.

We all have a unique experience when tasting kava for the first time. Some kava drinkers revel in its uniqueness, enjoying the kick to their senses. They know that the pleasant kava feeling comes quickly, and they're down for that. They associate the flavors with the feelings and drink their kava teas straight. We tip our hats to them.  

Others feel like they are choking down actual dirt or grass. 

Ask any kava drinker to describe the taste of kava to you. You'll get a variety of answers, like these:

  • Bitter

  • Earthy

  • Muddy or dirt-like

  • Grassy or leaf-like

  • Peppery

  • Spicy

  • Chalky

  • Woody 

  • Nutty

  • Uh, foul.

Why Does Kava Taste So—Uh, Kava-y?

What gives kava such a unique flavor profile? There are a few reasons why your palate lights up when you consume kava.

  • Piper methysticum: Kava is made from the roots of the Piper methysticum plant. Yes, roots. The roots are dried, ground, and then steeped into a "tea" form. Or, they are soaked and kneaded inside of a muslin cloth, draining into a milky liquid. Some of the fibrous root material usually stays suspended in the "tea" and contributes to the textured flavor.

  • Kavalactones: Kava contains active compounds called kavalactones. Kavalactones have a distinct bitterness and can create a numbing sensation on the tongue, which some people find uncomfortable.

  • Terpenes: Terpenes are plant compounds that contribute to flavor and aroma. Some terpenes identified in kava include:

  • Caryophyllene: A spicy, peppery terpene commonly found in black pepper with potential anti-inflammatory properties.

  • Humulene: Found in hops, has a woody, earthy aroma, and may have anti-inflammatory effects.

  • Myrcene: Known for its herbal and musky scent, often found in mangoes and hops, contributes to relaxation effects.

Why Do People Love Kava Drinks?

If it tastes so terrible, then why on Earth do people drink kava?

It's an honest question, and the quick answer is this: Kava makes you feel wonderful. Plus, it has some applications for herbal care—ranging from muscle relaxation to more pleasant social interactions. Plainly put, kava is very useful.

Kava is also relatively comfortable to use, without addictive properties. This makes kava not only helpful but also an attractive option for those who turn, first, toward plant-based care.

There is more to kava, though. Let's take a look at how kava consumption began and why drinking these pungent brews continues today.

Taking Ashwagandha? See how kava and ashwagandha compare.

Historically, Kava Sharing Is a Kindness

Kava is very important to the South Pacific where it's native—places like Fiji, Vanuatu, Tonga, and Samoa. Traditionally, kava roots are dried, ground, and then used in ceremonies or community gatherings. Kava ceremonies are deeply rooted in tradition and are performed to mark significant events like weddings, funerals, political meetings, and welcoming visitors.

Kava traditions are symbolic and meaningful, often synonymous with:

  • Gratitude

  • Appreciation

  • Celebration

  • Respect

  • Unity

  • Hospitality

  • Friendship

  • Community

  • Oneness

Because kava is so meaningful, and the native peoples who cultivate it share it meaningfully with passers-through, the traditions have made their way to the West. Now, we celebrate kava for how it brings people together in unified relaxation and social bonding.

Kava's story is similar to that of kratom if you're already familiar with that botanical supplement. We like this pairing to usher in a perfectly balanced day. See how kava vs kratom compares. 

Different Types of Kava

There are different types of kava.

You might buy a kava powder product from Fiji, for example. And one from Vanuatu, noting different flavors between them. This is because there are differences in the chemical makeup of kava plants that grow in different regions. You might not notice these gentle differences until you have more experience tasting kava. 

The most significant distinction between kavas is quality and experience. Noble vs Non-Noble or Tudei kava.

Noble varieties are the most sought-after because they are higher quality, metabolize in a more predictable way, and offer fewer side effects. Tudei kava is sometimes referred to as "2-day" kava because it's known for slowly metabolizing and imparting side effects that linger. Tudei kavas are not held in the higher esteem as the preferred, high-quality noble kavas.

Kava forms include:

  • Kava powders

  • Micronized kava powders (pulverized smaller for improved solubility)

  • Instant kavas (no need to strain)

  • Kava-infused tea bags (weaker but cleaner)

  • Kava extracts (potent liquid drops you can add to a beverage)

  • Kava tablets, capsules, gummies

  • And our favorite: Kava and Kratom Shots!

Benefits of Kava

If you want to try kava, the benefits are notable.

Looking beyond the bitter taste, we can discover the real attributes of this mysterious plant. First, the kavalactones in the roots make kava a psychoactive plant. This means the plant contains active molecules in the body and can change how we feel as our bodies metabolize them. 

Here's what NOT to expect with kava:

  • Kava getting you high, like with marijuana. (Kava imparts good feelings, but it doesn't put you in orbit, so to speak.)  

  • Kava getting you drunk, like with alcohol. (Kava can make you drowsily relaxed, but not sloppy, so to speak.) 

Here's what you may expect from drinking kava, thanks to those mighty little kavalactones!: 

Kava Benefits 

  • Tingly lips and tongue. (This is initial and fades quickly.)

  • A gentle, relaxing feeling.

  • A sense of openness and social ease.

  • A few hours of feeling calm, relaxed, possibly friendly, chatty, or introspective.

  • Relief for tension and stress—muscle calm and the stress of the day melting away. 

  • And some people sleep better after enjoying kava.

Kava Side Effects

As with any botanical supplement, there are some side effects or adverse effects to be aware of. These range from that initial tingling in the mouth to possible drowsiness or belly issues.

Although kava isn't considered addictive, long-term or heavy kava use may be taxing on your liver. 

For any bothersome or lingering side effects (or to be sure you are a good candidate for kava) speak with a healthcare professional, preferably one with knowledge of plant-based supplements. 

What Can Make Kava Taste Better?

Good news! There are many ways to make kava taste better so you can enjoy the smooth ride without the ick.

If you make your own kava tea drinks at home, try adding your choice of these ingredients. These may help mask or accompany the unique taste of kava powders.

  • Coconut Milk or Coconut Cream: Adds a rich, tropical flavor, complimenting the earthy notes of kava. (Bonus points for drinking it from a coconut bowl.)

  • Almond Milk or Oat Milk: Provides a smooth, nutty taste and softens the bitterness.

  • Greek Yogurt: Thickens & adds a creamy tang.

  • Honey or Agave Syrup: Natural sweetness to balance the bitterness.

  • Maple Syrup: Adds a caramel-like richness. (Yum!)

  • Stevia or Monk Fruit: A sugar-free alternative for sweetness without calories.

  • Pineapple Juice: Bright and tropical, it ushers in an island twist.

  • Orange Juice or Mango Juice: Sweet, tangy, and tasty!

  • Cinnamon or Nutmeg: Provides warmth and complements the natural flavor of kava.

  • Ginger: Adds a spicy kick and aids digestion.

  • Vanilla Extract: Adds a rich undertone.

  • Lavender or Chamomile Tea: Mix brewed tea with kava for a floral aroma and relaxing effect.

  • Peppermint: Adds a refreshing and cooling sensation.

Or, create a kava smoothie with a combination of:

  • Frozen Berries: For sweetness and antioxidants.

  • Banana and Coconut Water: For hydration and flavor.

  • Greek Yogurt and Honey: For creaminess and sweetness.

  • Banana: Creamier texture and sweetness. 

Tips on Drinking Kava for the First Time

We do have some tips for when you're experiencing kava's taste for the first time.

  1. Don't be intimidated, nervous, or hesitant. The bitterness may be unpleasant for some people, and it's ok if you don't love the taste. That first experience is memorable. And it should be. 

  2. Know that kava kicks in quicker if you drink it on an empty stomach.

  3. Don't expect the experience to be like drinking iced tea or European hot teas. Most kava drinks are sipped at room temperature.

  4. Sip the kava, or gulp it down. That's up to you and what you want from your kava experience.

  5. Give it some time, and welcome those dreamy kava feelings! 

Making Kava Tea vs Going to a Kava Bar

There are also kava-drinking establishments called kava bars popping up across the U.S. Florida and California are spearheading the way with the most U.S. kava bars in operation. Use Google Search to see if you have a kava bar in your area.

Not only is it fun to visit one of these kava bars, but you can also make some new friends or pick up some tips for making your own kava mocktails at home.

Try Our Kava Products (They Taste Good!)

We mentioned before that Kava Shots are our favorite way to enjoy kava. Here's a little more about that.

First, we combine kava and kratom—the two complement each other well and provide a well-rounded experience. The taste is more pleasant, and the liquid form means fast absorption. There are different strengths, too, so newbies to kava and kratom are welcome to try them!

Pick your kava + kratom journey right here:

  1. Kratom & Kava Mood Boost Shot: With an impressive 50mg Kratom + 250mg Kava, beginners can sip their serving knowing this is the perfect strength to get started with a kratom and kava combo shot. Feel it. Experience it. Love it!

  2. Maximum Strength Kratom & Kava Shot: Turn up the dial on relief with this power-packed shot. It's got 375mg Kratom + 250mg Kava for long-lasting relief and pleasure. Start slow and savor the experience.

Final Thoughts on the Bitter Herb | Kava Kava

Kava kava has been around for years in the US in capsule form as a "stress relief" supplement. Today's kava is far more like the traditional variety—powdered, versatile, and yes, bitter. Once you've tasted kava for the first time, you'll understand that the earthiness of the powders and that first tingle...well, they're part of the whole kava experience.

Sweeten or spice up your kava with some of the Real Botanicals tips and suggestions above, or simply get a few of our shots, making kava readily available and tasty on the go! For more info on kratom and kava, visit Real Botanicals' wellness supplements blog.

Now, go enjoy some kava—and while you’re here, be sure to check out our other amazing botanical products like:

• Kratom capsules

• New 7-hydroxymitragynine products for sale: 7 hydroxy tablets and 7 hydroxy shots!

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