Kava Kava, also known as Piper Methysticum (a member of the pepper family), is a plant that is native to the South Pacific. Islanders in this region have used Kava for centuries as a traditional drink. The root of this plant is ground into a powder and mixed with water to create a bitter beverage. The active ingredient in the Kava root is referred to as "kavalactones". Our Kava is from the island nation of Vanuatu. It is a superior Kava with a high concentration of kavalactones. Kava has become known for its ability to induce relaxation. It is unique in that, unlike the effects of alcohol, there are virtually no hangovers. And the state of mind this root produces is limited to creating the effect of a relaxed state. The mind seems to stay lucid while judgement and bodily coordination/motor skills do not seem to be affected. You will notice slight difficulty focusing or concentrating. The Kava insists that you relax your mind. Often, after a couple of hours after drinking Kava, a restful slumber will ensue. Traditionally, Pacific Islanders will only consume Kava at the end of the day or after the sun goes down (after all work has been completed). We think drinking Kava once or twice per week is a conservative amount. Like alcohol, it is possible to overdo it. Respect the Kava.

Kava seems to have a numbing quality. As the beverage is consumed, you may notice some numbing in the mouth and throat area. This is especially noticeable with freshly ground Kava. Sungold Soap grinds the kava by hand (with a hand-cranked grinder) which produces a coarse grind that more closely resembles the traditional Kava root powder. We grind our roots fresh for each customer's order of Kava Root powder. For an extra kick in your Kava drink, you can grind the powder even more in a coffee grinder. Alternatively, if you purchase whole kava root, you can actually grind the kava root in a coffee grinder also. Just break up the sticks into small pieces first. This way you can grind your kava fresh before each use.

One to three tablespoons (3-8 grams) of powder to 8 oz of water, we have found, seems to be a good ratio. Simply place in a blender for a minute or so and strain. We include a piece of our cheesecloth for straining your Kava drink with every kava order. Click HERE for directions on how to blend and strain your Kava beverage. Kava is best drank on an empty stomach or partially empty stomach.

See our FAQS page for links and additional information about Kava.