Kava << KAH vuh >> is the name of two shrubs with round leaves and small yellowish-cream flowers. They grow in Australia and the Pacific Islands. The plants are easy to raise in greenhouses. They are grown from cuttings from the stem.
Many peoples of the South Pacific use the juice to make a fermented drink called kava, ava, or kavakava. Traditionally, the drink is made by chewing, crushing, or grinding the root of the kava plant. The roots yield a juice called kavaic acid that is mixed with water and consumed. Drinking kava produces an overall feeling of relaxation and well-being.
Kava has an important ceremonial and medicinal role in Polynesia. Kava ceremonies may be performed to mark special occasions, celebrate the installation of a new village chief, or welcome honored guests. Kava ceremonies help strengthen ties among groups, establish or reaffirm the status of certain individuals, and help communicate with the spirits during religious rituals.
Polynesian healers use kava to treat a wide variety of conditions. It is highly valued for its ability to induce relaxation and sleep and reduce anxiety. Kava is sometimes included as an ingredient in herbal medicine. Preparations of kava extract are sold as tinctures, powders, and capsules to treat insomnia, stress, and anxiety.
