Kava 101

Refers to the lateral roots of the kava plant and is known for its potency (high concentration of kavalactones). Waka itself isn't a classification of kava's effects, but when harvested from Noble strains, it maintains the Noble classification.

Refers to the kava plant's stump. While Lewena itself isn't a classification of kava's effects, it's often associated with Noble varieties when it comes to its quality.

A broad classification for kava strains associated with a pleasant experience.

This is essentially cultivated kava that, over time, reverts to a wild state. Its classification can vary, but its roots are typically in Noble strains.

Cultivated kava that, over time, reverts back to a wild state. Its classification can vary, but its roots are typically Noble strains.

Kava that grows naturally without cultivation. Like Feral kava, its classification can vary, but many wild kavas originate from Noble strains.

Borogu is typically classified as a Noble kava, known for its balanced effects. Noble kavas are favoured for daily consumption due to their pleasant effects and minimal side effects.

Borongoru is a Noble kava revered for its heavy, sedative effects. Like other Noble varieties, it's widely accepted for regular use.

Known for its uplifting effects, Pouni Ono often originates from Tonga and is classified under the Noble kavas. When harvested from Noble strains, it maintains the Noble classification.

Kava root in its natural, freshly-harvested state.

Kava root that has been dried after harvesting, usually for preservation, easier transportation & later use.

The hard, fibrous part of the kava root, typically discarded during preparation due to its low kavalactone content.

Finely ground kava that can be mixed directly with water, without needing straining. Also called Instant Kava.

A Fijian term of greeting, also associated with kava culture.

A common term used in the Pacific Islands for a drink made from kava root powder mixed with water.

Traditional attire and garments worn during kava ceremonies.

A traditional meeting place or area where kava is prepared and consumed in many Pacific Island communities.

A traditional offering given, usually kava, as a gesture of respect or to seek permission

A traditional offering given, usually kava, as a gesture of respect or to seek permission

Traditional dance performed during kava ceremonies.

Designated moments when kava is traditionally consumed.

Fijian for 'good night' of 'goodbye'

A traditional cup made from a coconut shell used for drinking kava in many Pacific Island cultures.

A large wooden bowl used in thepreparation and presentation of kava.

The manual process of extracting kava by massaging the root or powder in water.

The process of separating the liquid kava drink from the root material.

A method of consuming kava by placing a portion of kava powder in the mouth, and then washing it down with a liquid.

A modern Kava-making tool for quickly and easily preparing kava.

A modern finely ground preparion of kava that allows mixing of the powder instantly, without the need for straining and kneading, often in various ingredients.

Various modern formats in which the benefits of kava can be enjoyed around the world

The chemical profile of a plant, including the types and ratios of compounds it contains. Kava varieties are often classified by their chemotype.

Gamma-aminobutyric acid, a neurotransmitter that inhibits the activity of nerve cells in the brain. Kavalactones are thought to affect GABA receptors, which may explain some of its calming effects.

A technique used in analytical chemistry to separate, identify, and quantify each component in a mixture.

A class of bioactive lactone compounds primarily responsible for the effects of kava.

One of the six main kavalactones with potential euphoric effects.

One of the six primary kavalactones known for its sedative properties.

A kavalactone that may have sedative and analgesic effects.

A prominent kavalactone often associated with kava's euphoric effects.

A major kavalactone that might contribute to mood-enhancing effects.

One of the six principal kavalactones with potential psychoactive effects.

A group of chalcones found in kava, heavily in Tudei Kava species, currently being researched for their biological activities.