Kava is a truly wonderful herb for calming and restoring the nervous system. Kava has one of the most potent effects on the nervous system of any commonly available herbs. It is sometimes compared to the relaxing feelings of alcohol or cannabis, however kava has zero negative affect on cognitive function, in fact it increases mental capabilities for most people! It can make you feel sleepy (in a good way) if you drink large amounts, but it is not sedative.
Native to the South Pacific island nations such as Vanuatu, Tonga & Fiji, kava has been used there for medicinal and cultural purposes for thousands of years. Kava is usually prepared by placing the dried, powdered root in a cloth bag, and then massaging and squeezing the bag in a bucket or bowl water to force the smaller particles through the weave, while keeping the larger pieces within. Basically, it is sifted wet, not dry. This creates a strong kava brew that is drunk quickly after serving so as not to let the powdered root settle at the bottom of the cup.
This traditional kava preparation was used for all sorts of cultural ceremonies, and most notably, to facilitate problem solving and resolution of disputes within the community because of its ability to put one at ease, and make you feel more open to communication and cooperation. The physical effects of kava are generally described as a very pleasant sense of relaxation, promoting an open, engaged disposition, making one feel more at ease and sociable.
Medicinally, kava is historically used for all sorts of issues stemming from nervous system dysregulation; anxiety, insomnia, depression, exhaustion, and mental fatigue. It is also used to ease minor aches and pains, headaches & arthritis, as well as support certain bronchial symptoms such as shortness of breath or wheezing due to asthma or tuberculosis.
The active constituents of kava are not soluble in water, so heating the water isn't necessary, it is just the consumption of the powdered root that provides the effects. The constituents are most soluble in oil, so an oil extraction or consuming the powdered root are the best ways to utilize this herb.
Kava has a very strong, earthy and somewhat bitter taste. Most people don't enjoy the flavor upon first taste, which is one of the reasons I decided to blend the kava with a chai spice electuary. The warming, spicy herbs help to mask the "dirty" taste of the kava and create a tasty beverage that anyone would enjoy. The chai herbs also have the added benefit of promoting circulation and warming the body, so the relaxing affects of the kava may be felt even faster.
An electuary is a blend of honey and powdered herbs that can be added directly to hot water or milk for an easy herbal beverage. You can use as much or little as you want, but I like to do one 1tsp with about 6oz of hot water, warm frothed milk, or my favorite; warm coconut milk.
Note* kava will make your tongue and mouth feel tingly and numb while drinking. This is normal, not harmful, and goes away in about 30 minutes. This effect gives kava its use as an herb for teething babies!
This product is a 4oz jar filled with 150g of electuary. If using 1 tsp at a time, it contains roughly 24 servings.
INGREDIENTS: East Tennessee honey, dried & sifted kava root sourced from Tonga, ginger*, cinnamon*, cardamom* clove*, nutmeg*
*organic ingredient