From wellness TikTok to trendy juice bars, kava is having a serious moment. Whether it’s your girlfriend recommending it for stress relief, or you’ve seen someone sipping it from a coconut shell in a calming lounge, this earthy-toned elixir is making waves as a natural way to unwind without the next-day fog. But what actually is kava, and why are so many people turning to it?

So, What is It?

Kava (pronounced kah-vah) is a plant native to the South Pacific islands like Fiji, Vanuatu, and Tonga, where it’s been used for centuries in social and ceremonial rituals. The drink is made from the root of the kava plant (piper methysticum) and is typically ground into a powder, then mixed with water.

The active compounds in kava are called kavalactones, which are responsible for its calming effects. Think of it as nature’s chill pill. Unlike alcohol, it won’t get you “drunk,” but it does relax the body and mind. This makes it a popular go-to for reducing anxiety, easing stress, and even helping with sleep.

More and more people are exploring holistic approaches to mental wellness and ditching traditional stress relievers in favor of natural, non-addictive options. Kava is stepping up to the plate.

Kava Benefits

The main reason people sip kava? Relaxation without impairment.

Here are a few benefits that have kava trending

  • Reduces stress and anxiety: It may be effective in managing symptoms of anxiety without the side effects associated with medications like benzodiazepines.
  • Promotes better sleep: A cup of kava before bed might help you catch those much-needed Zzzs.
  • Improves mood: It can leave you feeling uplifted and mellow.
  • Muscle relaxation: If you carry tension in your body (hello, tight shoulders), kava may help relax your muscles.

Still, it’s important to approach kava with care, especially if you have liver issues or are on medication.

How Long Does Kava Last?

Kava typically takes about 15 to 30 minutes to kick in, and the effects can last anywhere from 2 to 4 hours, depending on how much you drink and your body’s sensitivity. For some, the calming afterglow can linger even longer. People often use it at the end of a stressful day or before social situations that might cause anxiety.

What Does Kava Taste Like?

Kava isn’t winning any flavor contests. It has an earthy, somewhat bitter taste that some describe as “muddy” or “peppery.” It’s not exactly delicious, but many people get used to it. Some lounges serve it chilled or mix it with other natural flavors like pineapple or coconut to make it more palatable.

If you’re trying it at home, adding juice or a flavored herbal tea can help mask the strong taste.

How Long Does Kava Stay in Your System?

It’s effects may wear off after a few hours, but traces of the kavalactones can stay in your system for 24 to 48 hours, depending on how much you’ve had and your metabolism. That said, it’s not something that typically shows up on drug tests and doesn’t linger in the way that alcohol or THC might.

Is It Addictive?

Kava is not considered physically addictive. You’re not going to go through withdrawals if you stop drinking it. However, like anything that makes you feel good or helps you cope, it’s possible to build a psychological habit, especially if you’re using it daily to manage stress or anxiety.

The key is moderation. If you’re using it to supplement healthy lifestyle habits like therapy, journaling, or movement, it can be a helpful wellness tool. But it shouldn’t be your only method of self-care.

Whether you’re dipping your toes into the world of natural remedies or looking to switch up your wellness routine, kava might just be worth a sip. Be sure to do your research, listen to your body, and, as always, put your health first.