7 Kava Kava Benefits You Need to Know

Did you know that coconut water is only the second-best beverage traditionally drunk from a coconut shell? The number one spot goes to kava, or kava kava, a storied drink from the Pacific Islands that has been said to promote various facets of wellness. Kava kava benefits can be subtle and surprising, and we’re going to share seven that you should be aware of. 

‍

First, let’s give a bit of background on the wonder beverage. We’ll talk through the what and whys of kava, and why you’d be wise to keep it in mind (and maybe in your mouth).

First, Let’s Cover the Basics: What is Kava, or “Kava Kava?”

‍

‍

Kava is a cultural pillar across Pacific Island cultures, particularly those of Samoa, Vanuatu, and Fiji. To traditionally make it, they pulverize the roots of an evergreen shrub (Piper methysticum), mix it with water, and strain it through cloth. The result is an earthy tea ready for sipping and sharing with family, friends, and the community. As beautiful as the plant’s heart-shaped leaves are, looks aren’t enough to be invited to the kava kava party. 

‍

The social and ceremonial significance of kava is beautiful in and of itself, but it’s the bodily effects of the plant that have expanded its use beyond the Pacific. The mainstream health and wellness world has created kava drink mixes, extracts, capsules, and more.

What does kava do to the body?

To get a little sciency about it, kava contains kavalactones that interact with neurotransmitters in the brain. These interactions produce calming effects, such as a general sense of relaxation and peace of mind. There is no “high” associated with consuming kava. In fact, it’s actually a depressant, just not a depressing one. Rather, it tends to give a subtle euphoria or contentment. 

‍

You could say that kava brings our bodies and minds into balance. In a way, it smooths out some of our rough edges. While side effects are possible, they’re typically not extreme. Let’s go into more detail, all around. 

7 Kava Kava Benefits to Know About

‍

‍

To make it easier for those trying to sift through fact and fiction, we’ve gathered the seven kava kava benefits worth knowing. It’s possible to experience any or none of these when trying kava initially or repeatedly. Kava isn’t a wonder drug that will solve all your health and wellness problems, but it could be a relaxing supplement to make life feel a bit less chaotic or stressful. 

1. Stress and Anxiety Relief

One of the most well-known and hyped benefits of kava kava is relieving stress and anxiety. Consumers often experience a wave of calm washing over them when partaking in kava. 

2. Mood Boosting

Happiness, giddiness, and feelings of euphoria are all quite common with kava. It’s easy to feel like everything’s going to be alright when your stresses have eased away. 

‍

Again, kava kava won’t make you high, but it will often lift your spirits. 

3. Relaxation

Tranquility is the name of the game with kava. One of its beloved benefits is how relaxed it can make people feel. Not just mentally, either. Kava kava loves to loosen out tight, tense muscles as much as minds.

4. Sociability

Kava is often said to help users feel more comfortable and open in social situations. Maybe it’s a parallel effect of the reduced anxiety, or maybe it's the tongue muscles being loosened up as well. Either way, it’s helpful for many, especially introverts, who want to get the most out of socializing. 

5. Improved Sleep

Drowsiness can come alongside kava kava’s other effects. This benefit typically requires a bit of a higher dose, so take care there. But if you’re seeking help with insomnia or regularizing bedtime, some nighttime kava tea could be the trick. 

6. Anti-Inflammation

A particular compound of kava, called kavain, has been found to bring pain relief through fighting inflammation. Isolating kavain isn’t something you can do on your own, but certain kava kava products will feature it more actively. 

‍

7. Anti-Cancer

Remember those particular Pacific Island cultures from earlier? Samoa, Vanuatu, and Fiji? Well, they’re among the highest consumers of kava in the world. They also have lower cancer rates than non-kava drinking nations. 

‍

This discovery prompted more research into the potential anti-cancer benefits of kava kava, and the initial findings are promising. The FDA doesn’t recommend kava for any medical or therapeutic treatment yet, but for those looking into natural solutions, it shouldn’t be ruled out.  

Potential Kava Side Effects to Consider

People who consume kava moderately don’t often experience side effects. Those who do usually report dizziness or nausea. Prolonged or excessive use is a bit of a different story. Liver toxicity can occur, as well as skin rashes. Loss of appetite or other gastrointestinal problems could crop up. These situations are rare, but not unheard of.

‍

It’s always best to check with your doctor before adding any new supplement, including kava, into your routine. They can help you decide if you’re at any particular risk for these side effects. They can also let you know if any other medication or supplements you take may react poorly with kava. 

How to Use Kava Kava: Our Top Tips

If you want to use kava kava like the pros, don’t forget your coconut. Kidding, but the rest of our advice is serious. We don’t want you to ruin your potential kava kava benefits by making a rookie mistake.

‍

• Start low and go slow. Patience is a virtue. Start with a very low dose of kava first, then work your way up from there until you dial in your best effective portion.
• Only use high-quality kava kava. We recommend noble kava varieties, which come from Vanuatu or Fiji, as they’re lauded for their effects and taste.
• Pay attention to the strain. Some kava strains promote more relaxation, while others lean more towards euphoria. Do a bit of reading or asking around to get the best strain for your goal.
• Avoid mixing with medication. If you’re on a medication or supplement routine, kava may react poorly for you. Check with your doctor to be sure kava is the right addition to your routine. 

Shop Your Favorite Kava Kava Goodies at Green Dragon

Kava kava won’t perform miracles in your life, but it could make the chaos of existence feel more manageable. Considering the minimal risk, we find it hard not to recommend that folks try it at least once. If you’re ready to give this natural solution a shot, Green Dragon can hook you up. 

‍

Want to try kava the traditional way? Or see how it has evolved into the mainstream? Check out our extensive kava collection to find the perfect option for you. And if you’re feeling overwhelmed, don’t sweat. You can hit us up for a free consultation anytime. Our team will show you the ropes, answer your questions, and get you set up with anything you need on your health and wellness journey.