# What Is Kava? | The Softer Hour

> What kava is, what it feels and tastes like, and how to drink it.

Source: https://softerhour.com/what-is-kava

Guide · Kava

# What is kava?

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Kava is a drink made from the root of *Piper methysticum*, a plant in the pepper family that grows across the South Pacific: Fiji, Vanuatu, Tonga, Samoa and Hawaii. For centuries it has been prepared for ceremonies, welcomes and evening gatherings, and today it's served in kava bars across the U.S. and sold in ready-to-drink cans.

## What does kava feel like?

The active compounds are called kavalactones. People usually describe the effect as calm and loose-shouldered while staying clear-headed, which is why it has become popular with people cutting back on alcohol. A tingly or numb feeling on the lips and tongue is normal and fades after a few minutes.

## What does it taste like?

Traditional kava tastes earthy, peppery and a little bitter, which is why it's often served with a fruit chaser. Canned kava drinks are flavored to cover most of that. Citrus-and-cream flavors like Orange Dream are the easiest place to start.

## How to drink it

- Start with one can and wait about 30 minutes before deciding whether you want more.
- Drink it on its own. Don't mix kava with alcohol.
- Don't drive or operate machinery after drinking it.
- If you already drink kava regularly, stronger options like the double-strength Brewer Series cans exist.

## Who should skip it

Kava has rare reports of liver problems, mostly linked to concentrated supplements. Skip it if you have a liver condition, are pregnant or nursing, or take medications that affect the liver or nervous system, and talk to your doctor first if you're unsure.

If you want to try it **Kava Orange Dream** from $36

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Related: [Why does kava taste so bad?](https://softerhour.com/why-does-kava-taste-so-bad) · [How long does kava take to kick in?](https://softerhour.com/how-long-does-kava-take-to-kick-in) · [Can you mix kava and alcohol?](https://softerhour.com/kava-and-alcohol) · [What is a kava bar?](https://softerhour.com/what-is-a-kava-bar)

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