If you think the piña colada is the most life-altering beverage to come out of the Pacific, we’re about to take you to school. Kava, or kava kava, is an ancient drink beloved by many Pacific Islanders for its wellness and relaxing effects. Kava kava benefits range from mild to profound, and the Western world has only recently wisened up to its potential.
But what is kava, exactly, and why is it better than your piña colada for having a good time? Buckle up, lock in, and let’s get into it.
What is Kava, or “Kava Kava?”
Kava is a traditional drink prepared from the root of an evergreen shrub called piper methysticum. Kava kava is the term for products derived from kava itself. Kava kava KAVA doesn’t exist yet, but maybe it should.
Anyway, various Pacific Island cultures have centuries-long heritages of using the murky drink to socialize, celebrate, and perform certain ceremonies. The benefits of kava tea and kava kava are still being researched to separate fact from fiction. However, the emerging science and centuries of anecdotal evidence point to their exciting potential.
How does kava affect the body?
Kava contains compounds called kavalactones that interact with the nervous system. They seem to inhibit stress responses, leading to feelings of calmness, happiness, and even a slight numbness at times. Most users experience a relaxing sort of euphoria after using kava.
There can also be some potential side effects to watch out for. We’ll explain those in a bit. But first, let’s break down the seven key kava kava benefits.
7 Key Kava Kava Benefits for Health & Wellness
Before we get into these, it’s important to note that the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) doesn’t recommend kava for any therapeutic, medicinal, or wellness needs. That said, many people use kava kava for the following potential benefits:
1. Relaxation
Mental and physical relaxation is the most commonly reported benefit of kava kava and kava tea. Whether it’s tension in the mind or in the muscles, this substance is trusted to smooth it out.
2. Reduced Stress/Anxiety
Kava is often used to relieve anxiety and stress. The relaxing effects can help worries melt away for a while, bringing a sense of calm for those who struggle to find that on their own.
3. Sleepiness
Kava is a depressant, technically, and like other depressants, it can bring about drowsiness. Usually a higher dose is needed to help people doze off, so practice caution if you’re specifically using kava for this benefit.
4. Euphoria/Improved Mood
Even though we just said kava is a depressant, that doesn’t mean it makes people sad. Quite the opposite, actually, as many users report settling into a happier mood after kava kava use. This euphoria isn’t a high, per se, but it is highly enjoyable.
5. Sociability
We’ve talked about kava kava loosening minds and muscles, and the tongue is tied to both! Kava is said to help users, particularly introverts, feel more comfortable while socializing.
6. Anti-Inflammation
More studies are diving into the anti-inflammatory effects of kava. This benefit seems to really shine when certain kava compounds are isolated, such as kavain.
7. Anti-Cancer
Countries with high kava consumption, like Western Samoa, Fiji, and Vanuatu, have been noted to have lower cancer rates than nations where kava drinking is little or nonexistent. Most interestingly, the men in those countries are the main kava consumers there, and they had even lower rates than women, which is flipped from most parts of the world.
While more research is needed to identify how and why kava may help fight against cancer, the discovery is very encouraging from a natural health and wellness perspective..
Kava Side Effects to Watch For
It’s not all sunshine and rainbows. It’s only mostly sunshine and rainbows.
The two common potential side effects of kava use are nausea and dizziness. Over long-term use, though, users caution that other side effects can manifest:
- Liver issues
- Skin rashes
- Loss of appetite
- Light sensitivity
- Slower reaction time
- Inflammation (which seems to be linked to drinking kava, specifically)
If you experience any of these after repeated use of kava kava, you should take a pause and consult with your doctor.
How to Use Kava Kava Like a Pro
Like any new substance you try, kava kava can be used well or not so well. Take our advice on how to get the best experience possible from the start.
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Start low and go slow. We give this advice for all supplement products, because it’s smart. Try a low dose of kava your first time, and increase how much you take from there until you reach your desired effects.
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Don’t mix and match. Kava might interact poorly with other supplements or medications you might be taking. Don’t be afraid to find out ahead of time! As always, consult your doctor before adding kava kava to your supplement regimen.
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Don’t overdo it. Moderation in all things, kava kava included. Most negative side effects of kava use stem from too much use immediately or over time.
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Try kava in different forms. Kava kava can be taken in three different ways:
- Powder. This is the traditional way, which gets turned into tea or added to other beverages.
- Raw. Chewing on kava roots works for some, and gets right to the root of things!
- Supplements. From gummies to liquids and more, kava can be found in appetizing and convenient forms.
Shop Kava Products to Suit Your Preferences at Gold Dragon
As more and more people seek natural remedies for their health and wellness goals, kava kava’s benefits have come into the spotlight. We’re excited to be a part of sharing this Pacific Island delight with the wider world. For those who wish to relax, ease their anxiety, improve their mood, and more, Gold Dragon is here to help you get started.
Check out our collection of kava products from the comfort of your home. And if you have questions about what would be right for you, don’t stress! You can get a free consultation from our team at any time. We’ll answer your questions, point you in the right direction, and make sure your path to a chiller future starts today.
