With the growing popularity and demand of Kava drinks for sale, many people in the West are excited to learn and buy this trendy ingredient online. Here is an excellent informative guide on Kava.
After medical marijuana, cannabis, and Kratom, up next is Kava on the list. The plant is being comprehensively studied and researched to re-evaluate its properties. Indeed, the inferences drawn from these studies prove that Kava Drinks perform wonders for the human mind, body, and soul both in recreational and pharmaceutical aspects.
Table of Contents
What followed next was the great global kava drinks boom. From being sold in trendy bars, and funky packages by online brands to popping up amongst the legions in the supermarket, the plant is gradually taking off. Following, we have shed light on all the basics.
Origins of Kava
In scientific terminology, Kava is called “Piper methysticum,” while its other more common names are Kava Kava, ava, yaqona, sakau, and awa.
The herb is derived from the roots of a tall, evergreen tropical shrub belonging to the pepper family. After purification and processing, it is sold in dry powder (that can be steeped in hot water to make the popular Kava drink), capsules, and extracts.
The funny part is, Kava isn’t a new drink. It has been around for centuries while remaining under the radar and making waves only recently. Experts believe that the plant originated in the Pacific Islands and then spread to other parts of the world, including Tonga, Vanuatu, the Samoas, Fiji, Micronesia, and Hawaii. On the other hand, archaeologists, linguists, and botanists believe that Kava hails from Northern Vanuatu as far back as 3000 years ago.
Whatever the truth is, Kava formed an integral part of the ancient religious and social ceremonies and was also touted as a viable natural pharmaceutical to combat daily problems.
How Does Kava Work Inside the Body?
Generally, Kava is cherished for its mild relaxing and soporific impact. A 2009 Study probed into its pharmacology and working mechanism. The findings revealed that there exist six major psychoactive compounds called kavalactones in the herb. These are primarily responsible for Kava’s impact by interacting with the brain and central nervous system receptors. They raise the dopamine levels to bring on a slight numbing effect on the muscles, limbs, and mind almost immediately- beginning from the mouth and then making way down to the body as explained by Yadhu N. Sinh in his article, Kava An Old Drug In A New World.
Does Kava Drinks Get You High?
The answer is somewhat tricky as the experience differs from user to user based on certain parameters like age, weight, gender, etc. By and large, Kava is sworn to render a slight alcohol-like buzz but not exactly the “high” associated with it. Also, the impact is not as profound as the latter.
“We say it’s like the buzz without the alcohol” – Jacqueline Rusher, CEO Kava Culture.
Generally speaking, Kava is known to enhance euphoria, sociability, clear-headedness, relaxation, and sedation. Besides, some experience a numbing sensation around the mouth, the lips, and the tongue- but that’s probably the reaction of certain kavalactones.
What Does Kava Drink Taste Like?
Do you know in Tongan Language, the word Kava translates to “bitter”? And that perfectly describes what Kava drinks taste like- although fresh, ripe green Kava is flavorful and spicy. It is a different story that people in the States and Europe don’t have access to fresh crops.
The traditional way brewed into a tea, tastes earthy- much like ground up the root with water unless flavor enhancers are added. One user explains very well: “It’s root and water. Kava is an acquired taste and isn’t something that is naturally delicious. But I love it so much now that I crave the taste of kava drinks.”
The Popularity of Kava Bars
Given the social benefits of Kava, the idea of establishing proper bars dedicated to the purpose was pretty forthcoming. But perhaps what nobody anticipated was how the idea turned out to be a massive hit overnight.
In no time, people from all across the city began flocking the comfy meeting ground- from having important work discussions over an exotic cup of Kava drink to catching up with friends, partying, hanging out, dating, and everything in between.
The bars began sprouting up in all parts of the U.S. Currently, as many as 180 bars are spread all across different locations in the country, with Florida leading the pack.
It is the most loved and preferred spot for teens, adults, and the elderly alike, where they can socialize, party, discuss, and chit chat while reconnecting with nature’s most prized possession.
If you are clueless and want to find a kava bar near you, you can use the interactive map here.
Why Are Kava Drinks So Popular?
Kava has recently paved its way to global shores. But why is that so? Here are all the physical and psychological reasons that contribute to the expansion of the industry:
Impressive Neuroprotective Properties
The findings of a recent Chinese Study revealed that Kava drinks help protect the neurons from damage. It further stated that “The use of kava might also be beneficial for treating many degenerative diseases or nervous system conditions.”
Calms Down Mind
The use of Kava drinks to promote calmness and tranquility is well documented, and studies supporting the claim abound. For instance, a 2002 review based on 645 participants and seven clinical trials concluded that despite the minor impact, in the short term, Kava is more “effective as a symptomatic treatment option for discomfort” than a placebo. A 2013 Study further backed the findings.
Combats Sleep Issues
Experts believe that the sedating powers of Kevin, a type of Kavalactone in Kava, acts as a great sleeping therapy. It will balance the irregular sleep cycles and combat restlessness. For instance, participants in a small German Study reported significant relief from restlessness when given 200-mg of kava drinks extract daily for 14 days.
Eradicates Physical Discomfort
A lot of users, as well as athletes, have been pretty vocal in endorsing Kava as a body reliever. The anti-inflammatory and analgesic impact is known to relax the muscles and eliminate all the discomfort. Do you know an article published on the ESPN Blog declared “Kava as the NFL’s newest and safest pain killer”? Why not give it a read yourself?
Increases Sociability
Are you an introvert who always dreads meeting people? Kava is one miracle herb that will battle all your social phobia and awkwardness. One drink and you will feel a relaxed sensation taking over and getting stronger with every sip to make you a little cheered up, chatty, and chilled out.
It is Safe
Kava inherits a long history of use in the South Pacific region. A 2010 discussion paper prepared for the Codex Alimentarius Commission cited, “Kava has had at least a 1500-year history of relatively safe use”. While the aficionados deem it a safe and enjoyable beverage, let’s see what does science has to say about it:
A recent study conducted over a three-week trial period concluded that Kava drinks promise benefits to the mind and body for a short time being. Hence, concerns about its long-term safety and efficacy remain. As one health expert remarked, “We simply do not know if this treatment would be safe and effective if used for six months or a year’.
It Is Legal
Kava is one God-send that promises an ocean of pleasure, relief, joy, and warmth washing over without any fear of crossing the laws.
It is legal in the United States for use as a dietary supplement. In fact, it is legal in most countries of the world, with just a few EU countries placing restrictions on it. For instance, U.K. has permitted its use, import, sale, or trade for purposes other than human consumption. So far, Poland is the only country to ban it outright.
Tips For Safe Usage of Kava Drinks
To safely incorporate Kava into the daily regimen, a few important pointers are worth remembering, as highlighted by a 2011 Australian Review published by the Australian and New Zealand Journal of Psychiatry.
1) It may trigger slight adverse reactions and must not be used regularly by anyone, particularly the aged.
2) There are numerous reports of Kava to trigger liver problems in healthy individuals. Hence, it must never be used for longer than three months unless recommended by a health expert.
3) Do not combine it with alcohol or psychotropic medicines such as those used for mood disorders and uneasiness. When mixed with Kava, it will potentiate the impact to an alarmingly dangerous level.
4) It is strictly not recommended to consume heavy doses while driving or operating heavy machinery.
5) Regular users are advised to undergo routine liver functioning tests.
Which Type Of Kava Drink Is Best For Me?
Kava is essentially processed and consumed in the form of tea, liquids, extracts, and capsules. But what if we were to tell you that the kava family can be divided into three broad categories based on their impact and chemical composition (i.e., the content of kavalactones). So, you can buy online or in-store your favourites based on your preference, taste, and lifestyle:
Heady
An ideal for daytime drinking, these are Kavas with high concentrations of kavalactones. They produce a cerebral uplift and cheerful effect to spark productivity, creativity, and concentration ahead of an important presentation, exam, or stressful situation. Besides, they are a popular offering at parties, gatherings, and bars.
Best-selling Heady Kavas: Kelli and Palarasul.
Balanced
They are the most-sought after kava drinks loved for their balanced and versatile impact by newbies and connoisseurs alike. It offers a full spectrum of Kava’s impact, which means that you can use it to get a little nudge in the morning as well as wind down at night.
Best-selling Balanced kavas: Pacific Elixir, Quick Shell (Instant), and Melo Melo
Heavy
They constitute the highest concentrations of the heavier kavalactones, causing intense sedation, relief, and the so-called “body-melting” effect. Given their potency and long-lasting impact, they are a perfect addition to your bedtime routine. Perhaps, the only downside is that they tend to be more bitter.
Best-selling Heavy Kava: Borogoru
Concluding Remarks
We kid you not; there are more ways to attain pleasure and relief than you can ever imagine. The unfortunate part is, most of them are however illegal and may send you straight behind bars. That’s probably where Kava comes to the rescue!
With the launch of many kava bars, the ingredient has come into vogue lately. But the sad reality is, for the most part, Kava has struggled to cut through the strict regulations, misconceptions, and stigmatization in the West.
However, modern scientific research and advancements have pretty much changed the picture. Even though most of these rely on animal models, they can establish the safety and efficacy of the drink. As one user commented, “Kava is not consumed for its taste, but its effects. So drinkers don’t sip the beverage; they absorb it in one shot.”
Jennifer Kurtz is a founder of KratomGuides.com and studied medicine at the New Jersey School of Medicine (Rutgers). She is passionate about developing her knowledge of Kratom, and nutritional supplements. In addition to attending medical webinars and conferences, she loves to write research-based articles for magazines, healthcare professionals, and medical agencies. Jennifer is always looking to develop her knowledge for the Kratom through scientific researches and frequently asked questions of customers looking to buy kratom from reliable sources.
