Understanding Kava: Initial Sensation, Secondary Effects, and More

Kava, a traditional beverage made from the roots of the Piper methysticum plant, has gained popularity for its relaxing and calming effects. As you explore this fascinating drink, there are several aspects you should be aware of which I break into 3 phases or sensations:

1. Initial Sensation

I like to call the initial impact of kava, the Elevated Sensation or Heightened Feeling. It occurs shortly after consuming kava and typically lasts for 1 to 3 hours. Each Kava has a different profile and therefore different effects as explained in my other blogs. Here’s what you need to know:

• Duration: The length of the initial sensation depends on the total kavalactone levels in the kava. Higher levels tend to prolong the experience.
• Impact: The specific kavalactone profile of the kava determines the type of impact you’ll feel. Some kavas provide a sense of euphoria, relaxation, and mild sedation, while others may offer a more energizing effect or a combination of both.

2. Secondary Sensation

After the initial sensation subsides, there’s a longer-lasting feeling, I like to call the Extended Sensation. Here’s how it differs:

• Heady Kavas: These varieties leave you feeling great and energized throughout the day, and at the same time relaxed.
• Heavy Kavas: These may induce a sense of calmness but can also make you feel unmotivated with different levels of sedation depending on the strength of the kava.

3. Sleep Sensation

Kava can enhance your sleep quality. Consider the following:

• Restorative Effect: Some kavas promote restorative sleep, leaving you feeling refreshed and motivated in the morning. Your mind will be clear and very rested.
• Heavier Kavas: You will probably experience a deep sleep. These might cause a slight hangover or fogginess, similar to a strong sleeping prescription.

4. Purest Form and Mixing

Before experimenting with kava in various forms (such as shakes or food), try it in its purest form. This helps you understand its profile and effects. Here’s what to keep in mind:

• Baseline Experience: Try pure kava at least four times to understand its impact on alertness, relaxation, anti-anxiety effects, focus, creativity, pain reduction, and restorative sleep.
• Food Selection: A lighter shake will have more Elevated effects vs. a heavy or large meal that has longer digestive times.
• Reverse Tolerance: Learn about reverse tolerance and how it affects your kava experience.  Unlike many substances where you need more to gain the same effect, Kava has a reverse tolerance, where over time you may need less for the same effect.  Remember that it may take you several times drinking kava before you can feel and understand its affects on your body.  Many people do not feel anything the first time they try it, except the numb tongue.

5. Timing and Mixing

• Timing: Understand when it’s best to take kava. Some kavas may cause sleepiness, so consider taking them in the evening. Others enhance focus and creativity, making them ideal for mornings.
• Food Pairing: Shakes are a good choice for mixing with kava since they’re easily digested. Heavy meals can dampen the initial sensation.

6. Micronized Kava

• Micronized Kava: Opt for micronized kava when mixing with shakes. It dissolves easily and is convenient for travel. One teaspoon will generally be adequate.

Final Thoughts

Remember to consult a medical professional, especially if you’re on other medications or regularly use other substances. Kava can offer unique experiences, but safety should always come first.  Remember that every kava will affect each person differently which depends mostly on a person's body chemistry.

Cheers, Vuniwai