Chemistry of Kava


Kava is a traditional beverage prepared throughout the pacific islands. The psychoactive compounds contained within the roots of the plant are known as kavalactones. There are 6 primary kavalactones: Yangonin, Desmethoxyyangonin, Kavain, 7,8-dihydrokavain, Methysticin & 7,8-dihydromethysticin. The kavalactones have analgesic, anesthetic, sedative, ant-anxiety, anxiolytic, neuroprotective, anti-inflammitory and intoxicating effects. It can be used to treat anxiety, restlessness, insomnia, tension and neurodegenerative diseases.Kava is a traditional beverage prepared throughout the pacific islands. The psychoactive compounds contained within the roots of the plant are known as kavalactones.

There are 6 primary kavalactones: Yangonin, Desmethoxyyangonin, Kavain, 7,8-dihydrokavain, Methysticin & 7,8-dihydromethysticin. A total of 18 kavalactones have been discovered in the kava plant to date.

The kavalactones have analgesic, anesthetic, sedative, ant-anxiety (anxiolytic), neuroprotective, anti-inflammatory, muscle relaxant, psychoactive and intoxicating effects. They can be used to treat anxiety, restlessness, insomnia, tension and neurodegenerative diseases. Particular kavalactones such as kavain have been shown to interact with cannabinoid receptor CB1.

Kavalactones also act on the monoamine oxidase B (MAO B) enzyme as a reversible inhibitor. MAO B inhibitors are used to treat the symptoms of Parkinson's disease.

 

Our Instant Kava

Some brands will claim they have instant kava however, many types of kava that are advertised as instant are actually micronized root which will leave you with an upset stomach from consuming too much fibre.

Our instant kava is dehydrated from fresh kava juice and is guaranteed to get you rooted without leaving you nauseous. Our instant kava powder is made from fresh roots and concentrated to a high level. You simply mix about 1 teaspoon per cup of kava that you wish to drink. 

Alternatively you can purchase our pre-packaged varieties to prepare the amount that you wish to consume. Our recommended dosage is 25g (About 1 US Oz) to 1 Litre (4 cups) of water.

Varities Available

We can source any variety from Vanuatu such as Borogu/Borongoru, Melmel/Sese, (Pentecost), Melo melo (Ambae), Kelai (Epi), Silese (Malekula),  Palasa , Palarasul (Santo), Gorgor, Ge wiswisket (Gaua), Pia, Ahouia (Tanna) or the very rare Ge vemea and Pualiu from the Banks.

If you would like a particular variety of kava you are welcome to message us on instagram or via our contact page and we will fulfill your request.