Making Kava the Traditional Way

Making Kava the Traditional Way

Traditional Method Knead & Squeeze (Medium grind / Powdered)

You can also watch a YouTube Video here: https://youtu.be/OytcWFXIvkg

Required: Straining Bag / Bowl / Warm water / Pounded Kava 

This is the first method of making kava:

  • Step 1: Pour warm water in a mixing bowl using 8-12 oz of room temperature or warm water for each serving.
  • Step 2: Place an appropriate amount of Kava root powder into the strainer bag. Use 2 to 4 tablespoons of Kava per serving for the desired effect. Experiment to get it right for you.
  • Step 3: Let Kava in straining bag sit in water for 2-4 minutes before kneading. Let it drink up some of the water.  It is best if you use water that is 105 degrees Fahrenheit.  This will help release the kavalactones.
  • Step 4: Using the traditional method, knead with the palm of your hand and squeeze the sealed strainer bag or nut milk bag for approx. 15-20 minutes to release the kavalactones into the water. This method is the most effective and meditative.  If you have a lot of stress in your life, the process of making kava helps you enter a meditative state before drinking, enhancing the benefits of helping to relax and clear your mind.  The more you work the root the better the results.  This releases the kavalactones from the root. The wash will start to feel a bit oily, which means you're on your way to a good batch. The oils contain the kavalactones. You are now ready for kava time.  Set aside and keep the washed kava in the straining bag for a 2nd wash in Step 5. 
  • Step 5: (Optional) Make a second wash of the kava used in the first wash above, to get any remaining goodness out. It will not be as strong but its a good chaser.  Use less water.

Enjoy the ritual, 'Quality takes time'. The murkier the mix the better.  It will have a rich earthy taste.

  • TIP - Adding Coconut milk, Whole milk or Almond milk will increase the potency of your kava.
  • TIP - Never use water over 135 degrees.  Kavalactones breakdown at 140 degrees Fahrenheit.

Closing Thoughts: This method is great if you are making a larger batch and want to have some fun with friends.  It's also a very relaxing  and meditating way to make kava.  This is still my favorite way to make kava with friends.  It is time consuming but the final product is usually really good as long as you use a 75 micron filter bag.

Moce,

Vuniwai

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