What Is Kava?

Spoon with Kava Kava root powder on wooden table.jpg

This is a unique plant called kava-kava, it can be used as herbal medicine, usually this p

Kava, also known as kava kava, is a traditional beverage made from the roots of the kava plant (Piper methysticum), which is native to the South Pacific islands. This culturally significant and revered elixir has been used for centuries by indigenous communities in the South Pacific for its relaxing, calming, and social properties.

Read more about the benefits of kava here.

Kava is prepared by grinding or pounding the kava root into a powder, which is then mixed with water to create a cloudy, earthy-tasting drink. It is commonly consumed in social gatherings, ceremonies, and as a means of fostering a sense of community and connection among people.

Kava is renowned for its potential to reduce stress, anxiety, and promote a sense of relaxation without impairing mental clarity. It achieves this through compounds called kavalactones, which interact with the nervous system to produce its characteristic effects. Different combinations of the 19 different kavalactones cause kava to effect the mind ("heady kava"), body ("heavy kava"), or both ("balanced kava"). Read more about the different types of kava offered at True Roots here.

While kava has gained popularity in various parts of the world for its potential health benefits and as an alternative to alcoholic beverages, it's important to use it responsibly and in moderation. At True Roots we source the highest quality kava from reputable suppliers to ensure its safety and effectiveness.

Kava's Reverse Tolerance

Kava's reverse tolerance, also known as "reverse sensitization", is a unique phenomenon associated with its consumption. Unlike many substances where tolerance builds up over time, kava often works in the opposite way.

Here's a closer look at reverse tolerance in the context of kava:

When someone begins drinking kava, they may not immediately experience its full range of effects. In fact, their initial experiences might be mild or even imperceptible.

Over time, with continued use, some individuals find that they become more responsive to kava's effects. This means they may need to consume smaller amounts to achieve the desired results, and the effects can become more pronounced and noticeable.

Reverse tolerance with kava is believed to be due to changes in the body's ability to metabolize and respond to the kavalactones, the active compounds in kava. As the body becomes more accustomed to kava, it becomes more efficient at processing these compounds, leading to increased sensitivity.