What is Kava?

Origins and Tradition

Kava is a traditional beverage made from the roots of the Piper methysticum shrub, a plant native to the islands of the South Pacific. For thousands of years, Pacific Islanders have gathered around a shared kava bowl to celebrate milestones, welcome visitors, resolve community disputes, and unwind at the end of the day.

How Kava Works

The active ingredients in kava root are called kavalactones. These natural compounds interact with receptors in your brain to help soothe your nervous system, relax tight muscles, and ease everyday stress. Unlike other relaxing substances, kava promotes a calm state of mind without clouding your thoughts or impairing your mental focus.

The Kava Experience

When you drink kava, you will notice a mild, temporary numbing sensation on your lips and tongue. This is a normal sign that the active kavalactones are working. The taste is natural, earthy, and slightly peppery. Kava is typically served in a coconut shell (known as a "shell") and gulped rather than sipped.