Question 1

What is kava?

Accepted Answer

Kava (Piper methysticum) is a traditional Pacific plant whose roots have been valued for over 3,000 years for their relaxing and anxiolytic properties. The roots contain natural compounds called kavalactones, which have a calming and muscle-relaxing effect without clouding consciousness.

Important: Kava relaxes the body without paralyzing the mind – a unique profile of effects among natural relaxants.

Question 2

Where does kava originally come from?

Accepted Answer

Kava originates from Vanuatu and other Pacific island nations such as Fiji, Tonga, and Samoa. The plant has been used in traditional ceremonies for over 3,000 years and is a central component of Pacific culture. Vanuatu is considered the country of origin with the greatest variety of varieties and the purest traditions.

Question 3

What is the difference between kava and kava-kava?

Accepted Answer

Kava is the traditional, authentic name of Pacific cultures. Kava-kava is a Western term often used for industrially processed products.

Kava: Traditional root preparation from selected Noble varieties
 Kava-Kava: Mostly industrially processed products (tablets, drops)
 Kava extracts: Modern concentrates with a traditional base

At KAVA MODE, we only use traditional Noble Kava varieties from Vanuatu.

Question 4

What are kavalactones?

Accepted Answer

Kavalactones are the main active ingredients of kava root. Their interaction shapes whether a variety is experienced as clear and sociable, balanced, or deeply physically relaxing. The six main kavalactones are always numbered the same in the chemotype:

1 = Desmethoxyyangonin (DMY): Associated with mood, balancing and relaxing profiles; examined preclinically, among other things, in connection with MAO-B.

2 = Dihydrokavain (DHK): Often described as deeply physically relaxing, soft and close to “Body Melt”.

3 = Yangonin (Y): Associated with mood-enhancing, sociable and slightly euphoric profiles; shows an affinity for the CB1 receptor in vitro.

4 = Kavain (K): Particularly associated with calm mental clarity, relaxation and social openness; positive GABA-A modulation has been shown experimentally.

5 = Dihydromethysticin (DHM): In practical reports, it is more often associated with longer-lasting, body-focused and heavier profiles.

6 = Methysticin (M): Described as calming, muscle-relaxing, and physically grounding; with the appropriate cultivar profile, it may support evening relaxation and readiness for sleep; neurobiological effects have been investigated preclinically.

It is not a single kavalactone that is crucial, but rather the interaction of the entire variety profile.

Question 5

What is a chemotype?

Accepted Answer

The chemotype is the chemical fingerprint of a kava cultivar. The six-digit code shows the ranking of the six main kavalactones - from highest to lowest relative concentration. It does not contain exact percentage values.

The numbers always mean:
1 = Desmethoxyyangonin (DMY)
2 = Dihydrokavain (DHK)
3 = Yangonin (Y)
4 = Kavain (K)
5 = Dihydromethysticin (DHM)
6 = Methysticin (M)

Example: 423156 means Kavain > Dihydrokavain > Yangonin > Desmethoxyyangonin > Dihydromethysticin > Methysticin.

Chemotypes provide a helpful indication of the effect profile. Depending on the analysis, the part of the plant used and the harvest, slight variations may occur in the same variety without completely changing the basic character of the variety.

Question 6

How should I store my kava for long-term storage?

Accepted Answer

Store in a cool, dry, and dark place. Store in the sealed original packaging at room temperature. Don't buy more kava than you can consume in 6-12 months.

Shelf life: 24 months from production date when properly stored.

Freshness indicator: Fresh kava has a characteristic earthy smell and a slightly beige color.

Question 7

Is there scientific evidence for the effects of kava?

Accepted Answer

Yes, there are. You can read more about them in our book " Kava - Root of Calm." Here are some sources:

Cropley, M., et al. (2018). "The Effects of Kava on Sleep Quality and Anxiety in Adults with Self-Reported Sleep Problems: A Randomized Controlled Trial." Sleep Medicine, 42, 56-63.
 World Health Organization. (2007). "Assessment of the risk of hepatotoxicity with kava products." WHO Technical Report Series, No. 942.
 Lehrl, S., et al. (2004). "Clinical efficacy of kava extract WS 1490 in sleep disturbances associated with anxiety disorders." Wiener Medizinische Wochenschrift, 154(13-14), 295-300.
 Savage, K., et al. (2015). "Kava for the treatment of generalized anxiety disorder (KGAD): study protocol for a randomized controlled trial." Trials, 16, 493. Singh, Y. N. (2004). "Kava: from ethnology to pharmacology." CRC Press.
 Teschke, R., et al. (2011). "Kava hepatotoxicity solution: A six-point plan for new kava standardization." Phytomedicine, 18(2-3), 96-103.
 Lebot, V., Merlin, M., & Lindstrom, L. (1992). "Kava: The Pacific Elixir." Yale University Press.
 MindFuel. (2023). "PALASA - Single Cultivar - Vanuatu Noble Kava." Retrieved from https://mindfuel.co.nz/products/kava-vanuatu-kava-palasa-high-quality-noble-kavavariety
 Australian kava. (2023). "Exploring the Different Types of Kava: Vanuatu Varieties." Retrieved from https://australiankava.com.au/exploring the-different-types-of-kavavanuatu varieties/
 Aporosa, S.A., et al. (2025). "Innovating through tradition: kava-talanoa as a culturally aligned medico-behavioral therapeutic approach to amelioration of PTSD symptoms." Frontiers in Psychology, 16, 1460731.

Question 8

What is the difference between Heady, Heavy, Balanced and Balanced-Heavy Kava varieties?

Accepted Answer

Heady Kava: Primarily affects the mind - energizing, clarifying and socially activating. Ideal for daytime use and productive activities.Heavy Kava: Primarily affects the body – relaxing, sedating and muscle-relaxing. Ideal for the evening and relaxation.Balanced Kava: A balanced effect on mind and body – versatile and ideal for beginners.Balanced-Heavy Kava: Combines mental calm and social openness with pronounced physical relaxation. Borogu is a typical example.Our recommendation: Start with a Balanced variety such as Melo Melo to get to know Kava.

Question 9

Which type of kava is suitable for beginners?

Accepted Answer

For beginners, we recommend:Melo Melo (Balanced): Gentle, balanced and beginner-friendlyBir Kar (Heady): Clear, communicative and creative – a good option for daytime use and social situationsNot suitable for beginners: Palarasul is intended more for experienced users.

Question 10

Which types of kava are good for productivity and work?

Accepted Answer

Bir Kar (Heady) is ideal for:Creative projectsMusic and daytime useSocial situations and conversationsWork that requires a clear and communicative presenceTiming: Bir Kar is particularly suited to daytime use and social or creative situations and should be used before 18 h.

Question 11

Which type of kava for relaxation and sleep?

Accepted Answer

For evening relaxation:

Palasa (Heavy): Evening rituals, muscle relaxation, sleep aid
 Palarasul (Heavy Intensive): Extreme relaxation for experienced users

Timing: Use heavy strains only in the evening, about 2 hours before bedtime.

Question 12

What makes Palarasul special?

Accepted Answer

Palarasul is a full-bodied Noble Kava cultivar from Espiritu Santo, Vanuatu. Chemotype variants 423156 or 423165 are reported for the variety. A clear onset, deep physical calm and the feeling often described as “Body Melt” are typical.

For experienced users: Palarasul is particularly suitable for people who already know kava and can easily assess their personal reaction and an appropriate amount.

Question 13

What is the difference between Noble Kava and 2-Day Kava?

Accepted Answer

Noble and Tudei are variety and quality categories.

Noble Kava: High-quality, traditional varieties with usually a short duration of effect of around two to four hours and an effect profile that is described as pleasant. Noble Kava is traditionally drunk regularly in Vanuatu.

Tudei Kava (2-Day Kava): Inferior varieties with a very long duration of action of up to two days, more common unpleasant after-effects and potential health risks.

Kava Mode only uses Noble Kava from Vanuatu.

Question 14

How do I prepare kava traditionally?

Accepted Answer

Traditional water preparation:

Place 15-30g of kava powder into a filter bag (80 microns)
 Use 300-600ml of cold or lukewarm water
 Soak the bag for 5-10 minutes
 Knead vigorously for 15-20 minutes
 Squeeze out the liquid and knead for another 10-15 minutes
 Remove the bag and drink the kava immediately

Important: Always use cold or lukewarm water – hot water can destroy the kavalactones.

Question 15

Can I prepare kava with a blender?

Accepted Answer

Blender/Mixer method:
 Add kava powder and water to the blender
 Mix for 4-6 minutes on high speed
 Strain through 80 microns filter
 Optional: With coconut milk for better taste

This method is faster, but the traditional preparation is often considered more authentic and effective.

Question 16

Why is an 80 micron filter important?

Accepted Answer

The 80-micron mesh size offers the optimal balance:

Allows through: All active kavalactones and flavor compounds
 Holds back: Coarse fibers that cause bitterness and stomach upset
 Reduced: Fine sediments that impair the mouthfeel

80 microns is scientifically proven and traditionally proven for optimal kava extraction.

Question 17

Can I use kava more than once?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you can use the same kava powder 2-3 times:

1. Extraction: Strongest effect (100%)
 2. Extraction: Medium effect (60-70%)
 3. Extraction: Weak effect (30-40%)
 Store the used powder in the refrigerator between extractions and use it within 24 hours or make several extractions one after the other.

Question 18

How can I improve the taste of kava?

Accepted Answer

Taste improvement:

Coconut milk: Makes the texture creamier and milder
 Honey: Natural sweetness (use sparingly)
 Ginger: Warming, grounding note
 Cinnamon: For ceremonial uses
 Cocoa: Chocolatey, relaxing variant

Avoid: Citrus fruits or acidic additives, as these can interfere with the kavalactones.

Question 19

What is the best time for kava?

Accepted Answer

Timing by variety:Heady (Bir Kar): During the day, before 18 h, for creative activities, music and social situationsBalanced (Melo Melo): Afternoon to early eveningBalanced-Heavy (Borogu): After work, relaxed conversations and consciously winding downHeavy (Palasa, Palarasul): Evenings only, 2 hours before sleepMeals: Take Kava on an empty stomach for the best effect. Wait 3-4 hours after your last main meal.

Question 20

Can I increase the dosage if I don't feel any effect?

Accepted Answer

Wait 30 minutes before considering a redose. Bir Kar has sometimes a delayed effect, especially on first use.

Question 21

How does kava work and when does it start to work?

Accepted Answer

Onset of action:

First signs: 10-20 minutes (tingling in the mouth)
 Main effect: 30-60 minutes
 Duration of effect: 2-6 hours (depending on the variety)

Typical effects:

Relaxation without clouding of consciousness
 Anxiety relief and emotional balance
 Muscle relaxation
 Increased sociability and communication
 Improved mood

Question 22

How much kava should I take?

Accepted Answer

Dosage guidelines based on experience:
 Beginners : 10-25g
 Experienced : 15-35g
 Expert : 25-50g Important: Always start with the lowest dose and increase slowly. Wait at least 30 minutes before re-dosing.

Question 23

Can I drink kava every day?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you can drink kava daily. Many people in the Pacific Rim and the international kava community use kava regularly. What is crucial is the right amount, high-quality Noble Kava and mindful use. Regular breaks are useful in order to keep your own perception fresh and to observe what is good for you personally. If you have a medical condition or take medication, kava use should be assessed individually.

Question 24

What is reverse tolerance in kava?

Accepted Answer

Many consumers refer to the experience of perceiving kava more clearly after several uses or of achieving a similarly intense experience with a smaller amount as “reverse tolerance”. This is the opposite of the well-known development of tolerance to alcohol or nicotine, where more and more is often needed for the same effect.

The exact mechanism has not yet been conclusively clarified. Increasing sensitivity to the subtle kava effects, adaptations of receptor and enzyme systems as well as the storage of lipophilic kavalactones in the tissue are discussed as possible explanations.

Practically, this means: Try kava several times, preparing it carefully each time, and do not increase the amount too quickly.

Question 25

Is kava addictive?

Accepted Answer

No, according to current evidence, a typical physical dependence syndrome has not been established with kava. Many people use kava regularly and can take breaks at any time. However, as with any ritual, psychological habituation can develop. Very frequent or high consumption can also cause unwanted effects such as dry, flaky skin, but this is 100% reversible once consumption is reduced to normal levels. A conscious approach and regular breaks therefore remain sensible.

Question 26

What is kava dermopathy?

Accepted Answer

Kava dermopathy is a harmless, reversible skin change caused by very frequent, high-dose kava consumption. The skin becomes dry and flaky, especially on the hands and feet.
 Prevention:

Maintain moderate dosage Take regular breaks
 Drink enough water
 Skin care with natural oils

Reversible: Kava dermopathy disappears completely after reducing or stopping kava consumption and occurs only in about 2% of long-term users.

Question 27

Is kava safe for the liver?

Accepted Answer

Noble Kava is safe when used properly. The 2007 WHO assessment confirmed the safety of traditionally prepared Noble Kava.
 The liver toxicity controversy arose from:

Use of Tudei Kava (inferior varieties)
 Alcoholic extracts instead of water preparation
 Use of leaves/stems instead of just roots
 Combination with alcohol or medication

KAVA MODE Safety: We only use certified Noble Kava roots from Vanuatu.

Question 28

Can I combine kava with alcohol?

Accepted Answer

NEVER combine kava with alcohol! This combination is extremely dangerous and can lead to:

Liver damage
 Increased sedation Respiratory impairment
 unconsciousness

Safety distance: Keep at least 24 hours between alcohol and kava.

Question 29

Which medications are incompatible with kava?

Accepted Answer

Critical interactions with:

Benzodiazepines: Increased sedation
 Antidepressants: Especially MAOIs
 Blood pressure medications: Increased effect
 Sleeping pills: Dangerous sedation
 Anticonvulsants: Altered effect
 Opioids: Respiratory impairment

Important: Always consult a doctor if you plan to take medication before using kava.

Question 30

Can I combine kava with coffee or guayusa?

Accepted Answer

Coffee + Kava: Not recommended, as both have different stimulation mechanisms and can interfere with each other. Guayusa + Kava: Also not recommended. If you're looking for a natural, gentle energy combination, use these separately:

Morning: Guayusa for natural energy
 Evening: Kava for relaxation

Better separated: Leave at least 3-4 hours between caffeine and kava for optimal effect.

Question 31

Who should not use kava?

Accepted Answer

Kava is not suitable for:

Pregnant and breastfeeding women
 People with liver disease
 People with respiratory diseases
 People with low blood pressure
 People with a history of substance abuse

Question 32

Can I drive to Kava?

Accepted Answer

No, this is not recommended!
 Kava may impair reaction time , albeit minimally.
 Safety distance: Wait at least 3 hours after consuming kava before driving.

Question 33

What are the signs of a kava overdose?

Accepted Answer

Warning signs:

Extreme drowsiness or unconsciousness Breathing problems or slowed breathing
 Severe nausea or persistent vomiting
 Complete loss of coordination
 Severe allergic reactions
 Confusion or disorientation

If these symptoms occur: Stop taking the medicine immediately and drink plenty of water.

Variety	Classification	Profile at a glance	A good place to start if…
Melo Melo	Balanced	A balanced combination of mental and physical calm.	… you first want to get to know a balanced profile.
Bir Kar	Heady	Described as more head-focused, clear and communicative.	… you are interested in the sociable, heady character.
Borogu	Balanced-Heavy	Calm sociability with a distinct physical side.	… you want to compare a balanced profile with a physical focus.
Palasa	Heavy	A body-focused profile that we associate with a quiet evening ritual.	… you are interested in the Heavy category and a conscious evening ritual.
Palarasul	Heavy	Clearly aimed at physical sensations; described in the Kava-Mode profile as “Body Melt”.	… you already know Kava and want to specifically compare profiles with a focus on physical sensations.

You might also like

Kava variety selection – which variety is right for you?