![]() It is one of the staple plants brought to Hawai’i on canoes through the Pacific, and thus it is a drink that has served to unite peoples, chiefs, farmers, hula practitioners, and Polynesian cultures. It is commonly known as the drink of the gods. Historically, kava, or ‘awa in Hawaiian culture, is not only considered a medicinal drink but also a ceremonial, sacred offering. These are some of the effects of kava, but learning more about plant medicine, kava, its history, and use can provide deeper, more meaningful, and long lasting impacts. This also materializes through the sensation of muscle relaxation and the initial slight numbing of the mouth and tongue. The kavalactones are shown to interact with the brains limbic system, reducing feelings of anxiety, depression, and fear. The effects of which are most generally a physical relaxation and mental clarity. Its natural, active ingredients are called Kavalactones, and the combination of the kavalactone compounds are what create the physiological and medicinal effects of kava. The botanical name of kava is piper methysticum, and it is part of the pepper family. The kava’s earthy, bitter taste is an indication of good, natural medicine in our culture. From the Kava shrub, the roots are grounded and squeezed in with water to create a drink similar to tea, which is also called kava. The words kava and ‘awa both roughly translate to bitter, and the drink made from this plant is indeed bitter. Kava is a well-traveled plant of Oceania, where it is known in Hawai’i as ‘Awa.
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