What is Kava from Fiji?

Posted on Dec 22, 2015 | 0 comments

We recently went to Fiji on our second honeymoon.

It was an amazing adventure filled with so many new and exotic flavors, smells and traditions.

One of which was the Kava drink, have you heard about it?

What is Kava?

Kava is a narcotic sedative drink made from the crushed roots of the Piper Methysticum, a plant from the pepper family. The roots are pictured above.

This plant can be found all over Polynesia, the name originated from the Tongan culture located on another of the Polynesian Islands. The drink has been used for medicinal purposes and in ceremonies for centuries in Fiji.

Kava has a calming effect and is able to relax muscles and prevent convulsions. It has a similar effect to Valium and will help anxiety and sleeplessness.

Is Kava Safe?

Kava has been known to cause liver problems in previously healthy people and is not recommended for people who have pre-existing liver conditions. You should never use Kava regularly without consulting your doctor first.

However, if you are healthy, it is ok to try while on holiday, and may be a good solution if you are anxious or have insomnia.

How Often Do the Locals Drink Kava?

Usually in the evenings. The Fijian people are not big on alcohol and there are little to no drug problems on these islands. However they do love their Kava in the evenings! People gather together around a big bowl. During this time, they talk about their day and share stories. One person mixes the Kava and serves it to the others in coconut cups. You must clap first and say Bula. Drink. Then return the cup to the person’s’ hands and clap 3 times.

What Does Kava Taste Like?

Hubby and I enjoyed Kava a few times while in Fiji! It has a very nutty, earthy flavor and is pretty smooth. I didn’t mind it and hubby actually liked it.

How Did Kava Make Me Feel?

A few minutes after I had my first Kava drink, my mouth felt a bit numb. The numbness lasted only a few minutes. Kava definitely relaxed me but the effects wore off within 30 minutes… so I had another one! I think I had 5 drinks in total and I did sleep well – though that could be because of the incredible Floating Bure we were staying in…!!!

Check out How Kava is Prepared at the Koro Sun Resort in Savusavu Fiji: