The answer is that kava is a root plant with its proper name being Piper Methysticum. Moreover, it is thought that the name Kava derives from the Tongan language meaning “bitter”.
You may not be aware that it’s only the root of the plant that’s used to make kava powder and for drinks. Consequently, different parts of the root are used for different purposes.
For instance, it’s good for you to know some of the methods used for the preparation of kava in Fiji. There they use the lateral root – Waka and the main root, Lawena. Because Waka Kava has a much higher kavalactone content than the Lawena, Waka Kava is more potent and has a bitter taste.
Notwithstanding the great features of the Vanuatu Kava and Fiji Kava range, you should also check out one of the most popular premium kavas we have from Tonga. Tongan Kava at its finest!
When you buy Tongan kava, you want the best – yes? Well then, this is the one – Moana Premium Kava from the Tongan island of Vauva’u. Wonderfully creamy and smooth, it will certainly delight the senses with its high-level heady potency.
Also, did you know that the effects from Kava are due to the kavalactones? These are a lactone compound that are responsible for creating the psychotropic effects of Kava drinks. Therefore, people usually measure the potency of Kava based on its kavalactone content.
You can learn more on this topic in our blog post – “What is Kava?”
Now that you understand “what is kava”, we can look at its origins. Specifically, it comes from the Pacific Islands. And in particular, the following countries:
Vanuatu
Fiji
Samoa
Tonga
Solomon Islands and
Micronesia
How is Kava Prepared?
Next, we look at how people prepare it. For instance, in the Pacific Islands, they still use Kava root. However, as you may already know, in Australia and other western countries, Kava powder is the main form. What follows are some examples of different Kava preparation.
Fiji
In Fiji, Kava is usually prepared as part of the Yaqona ceremony where an MC (master of Ceremonies) uses dried Kava root and grinds it into a pulp. Additionally, they may strain it through a traditional strainer bag as well or knead the mixture. After, they add water and the kava usually is normally mixed in a large bowl. Ultimately, the kava drink is then distributed to the ceremonial group wherein each person takes a drink.
Vanuatu
As we know from experience, in Vanuatu, the process differs slightly. That is, traditionally, they cut the root, and break it into small pieces. Then, as we have seen, children or young women chew the root and spit it into a bowl. Also, it is often then mixed with coconut water or coconut milk.
By chewing the root, the active ingredients of the Kava (kavalactones) are released. Once the root mixes with the water or milk, they strain and squeeze it. To top it off, they dilute it with clean water and serve in a coconut shell for drinking.
Australia
Kava in Australia, although available in root form, is mostly used as a powder. However, it is rarely used in its root form as companies process Kava on a large scale into powder.
Moreover, individuals usually buy Kava online in Australia as a powder and simply mix it with water or other ingredients to make a Kava drink.
A detailed explanation of the different methods of kava preparation can be seen in our article – “How to Prepare Kava”. This includes learning HOW TO SUPERCHARGE YOUR KAVA PREPARATION!
Why is Kava Used?
People use Kava for various reasons such as a recreational drink (been there, done that!). However, it is also used as part of deep cultural ceremonies and traditions. Alternatively, others use Kava for wellness and to help with a variety of conditions.
For ceremonial reasons
In countries like Fiji, Kava is a ceremonial drink where the Kava ceremony in Fiji is a fabulous thing to witness. A ceremony leader gives Kava to participants sitting in a circle. Then each participant takes turns to empty a bowl of Kava. Also, it is a mark of disrespect if you refuse a drink.
Although the Kava ceremony in Fiji is the best-known example, other Pacific Nation countries have their own ceremonies and traditions too.
As a social tonic
As we do, throughout the world, people enjoy Kava as a social drink. Also, the effects that Kava instils are something people enjoy. As such, it often replaces alcohol as a safer social tonic without the negative side effects of a hangover.
People drink Kava at bars (in Vanuatu these are known as “nakamals”). There, friends will gather to enjoy Kava together. Moreover, drinking kava is a very social thing that helps relaxation and often creates a pleasant sense of euphoria. In fact, here in Australia, more and more people are turning to kava, both in powder form and increasingly – Instant Kava. Many are finding that the Kava recipes for social occasions can also be a big hit!
