Piper Methysticum, or as is popularly known kava, is a medicinal herb native to the ancient Pacific Islands of Fiji and Vanuatu. The plant was sought after as an alcoholic beverage for use in ceremonial events.‘Pure’ individuals specifically virgins chewed the plant roots, and spat it into a bowl with water.
They would then strain the contents and brew the water into an alcoholic drink that was used for relaxation purposes. The plant use has undergone lots of transformation, over time.
In modern cultures, especially in the Western world, the plant is mainly sought after for its ability to relax and calm the mind and relieve stress.
The plant is sold in two forms, teas and root powder. However, most people do not understand the distinctive nature of these two forms of kava.
Kava Tea is delicious
The two strains are the same since they are derived from the same plant but they differ in several aspects that will be discussed in this article. It is important to understand the differences so that you make an informed choice when seeking the benefits of kava.
Kava Root
Just as the name implies, kava root is simply a root extract of the kava plant that is medium ground into a powder. The powder is made by medium grinding the plant roots into a fine powder, without adding or removing anything. This is because it is the purest form of kava plant.
Kava Tea
This strain of kava plant is made by blending either leaves, bark, or roots of kava plant with other flavored herbs to make a ‘tea’. Just as the name implies, it exists in tea bags that are sold together with other teas available in grocery stores and online shops. It is the impure form of kava plant since potency is reduced when blending it with other flavors.
Potency Level
Kava root exists in its purest form and is full of all the kavalactones that are responsible for stimulating brain receptors for a relaxed feeling and relief from stress. It is therefore fair to say that it if you aim to explore the full benefits of the plant, kava root is your best choice. Kava tea on the other hand, due to infusion with different flavors lacks some kavalactones, hence its mild effects on the psychosocial and physiological functions.
Preparation Method
Kava tea exists as ready-to-drink tea bags. With a glass of warm water, you just insert the tea bag and let it sit for a period of 5 to 10 minutes, to allow it to steep and you are good to go. When taking kava root, you just put 2 spoonful of the powder into a straining cloth, and then put it in warm water. After, let the content sit for about 10 minutes to allow it to steep and strain it further, and you have your drink ready.
Effectiveness and Consumption
With kava root, the traditional preparation method of steeping achieves a higher concentration of the much-needed kavalactones that offer more effectiveness. Since root powder exists in its purest form, it ensures maximum potency, which offers more effectiveness on the psychosocial and physiological functions like relaxation and relief from stress. For people with severe stress, anxiety and depression, kava root is a better option since it does not result to over dependence that is associated with most psychotic drugs. In fact, it is used to reduce over dependence on such medication.
The preparation method for kava tea does not allow the full dissipation of kavalactones, something that reduces its potency by far. The blending of the tea with other flavors loses potency, thereby making it milder of the two strains. For this reason, it is sought after for less serious situations like normal relaxation and mild stress.
Although not officially categorized as a commercial medicine, the use and effectiveness of kava plant is backed up by real testimonies from millions of its users. With no serious reported side effects, the herb’s popularity continues to grow each day that passes. However, just like with any other medication, the plant should be accorded serious caution. Although none has been reported so far, you should first consult with your doctor before using kava plant, to avoid adverse side effects. Most importantly, be sure to purchase the plant only from licensed dealers. Also, ensure that you are getting the best possible product regardless of the option you decide to go for between the two. This is the only way to enjoy full benefits.
