Trading in alcohol for this psychoactive brew from Fiji
Some other effects: -Small doses may also result in a mild numbing feeling in the throat and mouth, as well as a temporary loss of appetite.
A lasting tradition: -To this day, kava tea is often consumed socially and as part of traditional ceremonies and cultural practices throughout the South Pacific Islands.
A delightful effect: -In small doses, the effects of kava include muscle relaxation, sleepiness, and feelings of well-being and contentment.
Entering the market: -In the early 1980s, a group of Indigenous Australians from Yirrkala reportedly traveled to Fiji to examine community management practices.
A rocky start: -But the misuse of kava, which later led to the death of one Australian person from liver failure, became such a concern.
How it’s prepared: -The kava plant is harvested for its roots, which are then ground into a powder and steeped in water.
Where does it come from: -Kava—also referred to as kava kava, Yaqona, 'awa, ava, sakau, and many other names.
It’s not particularly appetizing: -The result is a murky brown liquid akin to muddy water, with an earthy aroma and taste to match.
Ritual and culture: - Kava has been used for centuries, for purposes ranging from ceremonies to communication with the spirits and medicine.
It’s never been restricted in the US: -The US only gave a warning in the early 2000s, but it has been almost consistently promoted in the country as a natural dietary supplement to tame anxiety.