Used for over 3,000 years in the Pacific Islands, kava (Piper methysticum) is consumed and cherished in a variety of ceremonial, spiritual, and social gatherings. Often served as a beverage
After gaining global popularity, this treasured root is now available across the States in a number of different forms including powder, soft gels, gummies, and beverages.
But what does it do exactly?
RELAXATION
The top benefit that kava users report is a reduction in stress and anxiety. Kava is a central nervous system depressant. It’s often compared to alcohol, though the two have very different buzz experiences. While both do promote relaxation, mild euphoria, and sociability, kava is certainly the healthier (and safer) option of the two.
Kava has minimal cognitive impairment, and with a proper dosage, individuals can enjoy a mess-free night out with friends and safely drive themselves back home. (Plus - no hangover the next day!)
Alcohol, in comparison, does impair judgement. Slurred speech and sloppy behavior is rarely a good look, and too many drinkers have found themselves in risky situations after a cocktail or two and getting behind the wheel.
‘I’m lucky I made it home’ shouldn’t be your catchphrase!
Kava is also primarily low in calories even within the canned beverage sector, and yes, while some beers and wines do have lower calorie options, sometimes it’s difficult to pass up on the sugar cocktails and hoppy IPAs, when your mind is in screw it mode.
In short, kava is more like a gentler, non-intoxicating alcohol alternative.
The active compounds in kava called kavalactones, act on the GAVA-A receptors of the brain which can calm overactive nerves, and ease anxious thoughts.
If you’ve never been into the alcohol scene or are attempting to transition away from the booze, kava has your back! You don’t have to be the only one in the room without a drink in your hand at the next get together. The kava beverage market is booming and gaining momentum each year.
SLEEP
Do you toss and turn when the stars come out? Do you wake up every other night in confusion to discover it’s only 2:00AM again? Rough sleep quality can really take a toll on your overall health. If you’re already reading a chapter, popping a melatonin, and avoiding screen time an hour before bed, you might want to consider adding kavkava to the routine.
Users have reported an improvement in their sleep quality.
SOCIABILITY
As previously mentioned, kava can enhance your dialogue and set yourself up for some solid storytelling. It reduces uncertainty and fosters a sense of well-being, making social interactions easier in helping the conversations flow.
Kavalactones (the active compounds within the root) act to reduce anxious thoughts, making opening up to friends, relatives, and the occasional friendly stranger, that much more simple.
The euphoria is much welcomed, and you may wonder if users start to rely on it for social anxiety.
Kava can certainly be habit-forming much like caffeine or sugar. It is not chemically addictive, as the substance does not alert the brain’s dopamine reward system. Thankfully, most people who take breaks from kava consumption, do not experience cravings or harmful withdrawals.
ADDICTION RECOVERY
This segways into users taking kava to aid with addiction recovery. Individuals struggling with alcoholism can find solace in kava, as the root isn't chemically addictive. They do not trigger strong dopamine surges in the brain which in alcohol typically drives the chemical dependence.
Kava, instead, offers a unique 'buzz' of its own, but on a brighter side, it does not cause impairment.