Kava is an herb native to the South Pacific islands & its history of use spans 3,000+ years. The root of the plant is often used today as a powerful relaxant for the mind and body; it’s even known to bring a slight euphoric state without the psychoactive effects. The taste is unique- with it being a root, it’s very bitter and earthy. The plant is in the black pepper family, but I’ve never noticed much “spice”. You’ll notice when you drink Kava, it has a slight numbing effect in your mouth. This is due to it’s anesthetic properties, which if it’s capable of that feeling in your mouth just by a sip of it, imagine how that’s working with any tension you hold within your body!
Kava bars or café’s are on the rise and growing in popularity throughout the US as the sober movement increases among people who are trying to limit/cut out alcohol completely. It serves as one of the best alternatives for alcohol due to it’s ability to reach similar desired affects (feeling social, worry-free, relaxed, happy) without the negative impacts or need for recovery the next day.
It has a rich history of being a ceremonial beverage dating back as early as the 1600’s and was ingested at all types of social gatherings. Tom Harrison, in his book "Savage Civilization" (1937) said that "You cannot hate with kava in you", making it seem much more different than alcohol in the way that it brings peace and happiness within, rather than anger and chaos.
OVERVIEW
HOW IT WORKS WITH THE BODY
Kava’s greatest benefit is how effectively it relaxes the nervous system and lessens anxiety. The effects are immediate and are not built up over time like some others— it’s usually taken on an as needed basis for quick relief in an anxiety or panic attack, high stress or high tension moment, or insomnia and restlessness.
It generally brings a feeling of happiness, cheerfulness and euphoria, even for people who are already considered cheery.
Kava is a go-to alternative to alcohol, and is my personal favorite way of adding some extra fun and joy to any night in or out! The best part is, it leaves you feeling refreshed rather than having to recover.
In those who experience social anxiety, Kava has a wonderful effect on their ability to “let loose” in a social setting, allowing them to feel more free to be themselves and freeing them from the restraints of nervousness or insecurity.
It is a wonderful pain reliever, especially in cases of muscle tension and feeling generally tense. In situations of feeling tight and on edge, kava will absolutely bring soothing.
It can calm and soothe your mood without inducing sleepiness or impairing cognitive function, which makes it suitable to consume throughout the day. You can drive and do everything as you normally do with kava in your system!
It is considered anti-convulsive, meaning it can ease spasms and convulsions, especially when associated with a nervous state.
An additional benefit of Kava is the antifungal properties that can aid in cases of yeast infections.
Some words about Kava that I feel sums it up perfectly: “Kava falls into a class uniquely its own. I know of no other herb like it (nothing I've ever come across could even remotely qualify as a "substitute" for kava), and consider it one of the nature's most exquisite gifts. Kava is, in my opinion, primarily suited to treating acute stress that settles into the musculature of the body. It is most effective when your mind is overwhelmed and your body is tightly strung from a crazy hectic day and that's what's making you unable to relax.” - jim mcdonald - HerbCraft.org
CAUTIONS
There are known rumors of concern that Kava can be damaging to the liver in high amounts. This has since been proven untrue after many clinical studies that found no correlation between Kava itself and hepatotoxicity. The culprit of any possible liver injuries may have come from people ingesting the leaves and stems of the plant, which have different chemical constituents. The roots are the only part of kava we should be taking. In 2008, the World Health Organization declared kava to be a safe plant to consume. That being said, it is still important to use this herb responsibly!
Do not use Kava if you are pregnant, nursing, or have liver disease.
It’s always best to try new herbs in small amounts and to consult with your physician prior to taking any new herbal supplements, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, have a medical condition, or are taking any medications.
Check out our offerings that contain Kava:
*Disclaimer: This content is for educational purposes only and is not a replacement for professional medical/health advice. This information has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration, and is not meant to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Before taking any actions based upon such information, it is encouraged to consult with the appropriate professionals. Please consult with your physician prior to the use of any herbs, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, have a medical condition, or are taking any medications.