All kava comes from the same plant — Piper methysticum. This species has many different cultivars (sometimes called “strains”). Each strain is unique in terms of how it feels, grows, and is strong. Here’s a guide to the most common (and uncommon) kava cultivars from all over Oceania. What is a Kava Cultivar (Strain)? A strain … Read more
Kava (Piper methysticum) is not inherently addictive the way cocaine or heroin are. However, its ability to provide a temporary release from stress and anxiety can become habit-forming over time. When someone is addicted to something, they seek it out compulsively despite clear negative implications on their health, finances, or relationships. The important question to ask … Read more
Kava kava has a long history of use throughout the pacific islands. For a plant that’s unable to mate and produce any seeds, it’s managed to scatter itself across the many islands of the pacific ocean. This herb is prevalent around the pacific where it’s used as an object of sacrifice, a source of inspiration, … Read more
Although traditional methods of brewing kava rely on high doses of the herb mixed with water, there are also a lot of tea blends made with kava for a more subtle effect. Kava root can be chopped, dried, and mixed with other herbs like green or black tea (Camellia sinensis), or other herbs like mint, hibiscus, chamomile, … Read more
Making kava can be as simple or ritualistic as you’d like. Some people prefer to drop a couple of scoops of instant kava into a cup of hot water and be done with it; others enjoy mixing and drinking kava the traditional way. You’ll need a few simple objects to start if you’re in the … Read more
Most kava is sold as a dry powdered root. To prepare it, you’ll need to mix it around with some water to make a strong “tea.” If you mix the powder directly with the water, you’re going to end up with a nasty fibrous “mud” that can irritate the throat and cause digestive upset. A kava … Read more
Kava is an unusual plant in that it doesn’t make seeds. The Piper methysticum species (most commonly used for making kava drinks) is completely reliant on human intervention to spread and propagate. Here, we’ll explore why kava doesn’t produce seeds, how it’s cultivated, and where to find seeds for closely related species like Piper excelsum and Piper wichmanii. Does Kava … Read more