Frequently Asked Questions

Information on kava: 

What is kava made from? Kava is made from the root of the kava plant (Piper methysticum), a shrub native to the South Pacific islands like Fiji, Vanuatu, and Tonga.

What part of the plant is used? Only the roots are traditionally used - Specifically:

     • Lateral roots (preferred for their higher quality)

     • Basal stump (sometimes included as a filler). The kava sold by Wadda Murrkay does not have the basal stump included.

IMPORTANT: The leaves, stems, and aerial parts of the plant not used - they can be toxic and are linked to liver issues in low-quality or improperly processed kava.

Is kava a natural supplement? Kava is a natural plant-based supplement with drug-like effects. It’s legal and commonly used in many places but should be respected like a mild sedative or anti-anxiety agent.

Natural Supplement (Common View in the U.S. and Many Countries):

• Kava is typically sold as a dietary supplement made from the root of the Piper methysticum plant.

• Available in powder, capsules, extracts, tinctures, or teas.

• People use it for:

  • Anxiety

  • Stress relief

  • Mild sedation

  • Sleep support
    

Is kava a drug? (Pharmacological Definition)

• Kava contains active psychoactive compounds (kavalactones) that alter brain function — especially by interacting with GABA receptors, similar to benzodiazepines (like Valium).

• So technically, yes, it is a drug — it has measurable effects on the nervous system.

• In some countries (e.g., Germany, UK at certain times), kava has been classified or treated as a medicinal drug or even banned, due to safety concerns (mainly liver toxicity in poor-quality or misused products).

How does kava work in the body? Kava works in the body primarily by affecting the brain and nervous system, producing calming, anxiolytic (anti-anxiety), and sometimes euphoric or sedative effects — without significantly impairing mental clarity (at moderate doses).

In Simple Terms:

• Kava "calms" your brain by affecting the same systems targeted by anxiety meds like Valium — mainly the GABA system, which controls stress and nervousness.

• It can also relax muscles, enhance mood, and promote sociability, especially in social or ceremonial settings.

• Unlike alcohol or weed, it rarely impairs thinking or coordination (unless in very high doses).

In Scientific Terms:

1. 🧠 GABA-A Receptors (Gamma-Aminobutyric Acid)

• Kava enhances GABA activity — GABA is the brain’s main inhibitory neurotransmitter, meaning it slows down brain activity, promoting calmness and relaxation.

• This is similar to how benzodiazepines (like Xanax or Valium) work, though kava is much milder.

2. 💡 Dopamine and Mood

• Kava increases dopamine levels (especially through the kavalactone yangonin).

• Dopamine helps with motivation, pleasure, and mood, which may explain kava’s mild euphoria and sociability.

3. 🦴 Muscle Relaxation and Nerve Activity

• Kava can act as a muscle relaxant and anticonvulsant, partly by blocking sodium and calcium channels in neurons, slowing nerve signaling.

4. 🛌 Sedation and Sleep

• Some kavalactones (especially dihydrokavain and dihydromethysticin) have sedative properties.

• That’s why kava is sometimes used as a natural sleep aid.

Effects & Benefits:

What does kava feel like? Kava feels like a gentle, relaxing wave washing over your mind and body — calming your thoughts, relaxing your muscles, and sometimes boosting your mood or sociability, without clouding your mental clarity (unless you take a high dose). In simple terms, kava makes you feel relaxed, calm, and at ease - like alcohol or a mild anti-anxiety med, but without the mental fog, aggression, or hangover. As a side note, Kava doesn’t "hit" like alcohol or weed — it's subtle and builds gradually. If you’re expecting a “buzz,” you might miss the point. It’s more like turning down stress than turning up stimulation.

Does kava help with anxiety or stress? Kava is widely used and well-supported as a natural remedy for anxiety and stress. It’s one of the few herbal supplements that has clinical evidence backing its ability to reduce anxiety — in some cases, comparable to prescription medications, but with fewer side effects (if used properly).

How does Kava Helps with Anxiety and Stress?

Kava contains active compounds called kavalactones, which:

1. Enhance GABA activity — GABA is the brain's primary calming neurotransmitter.

2. Reduce nervous system excitability — which quiets racing thoughts and stress responses.

3. Increase dopamine (in some strains) — helping with mood and motivation.

This makes kava especially helpful for:

• Social anxiety

• Generalized anxiety

• Work or life stress

• Restlessness or racing thoughts

• Difficulty winding down at night

Can kava help with sleep? Kava can help with sleep, especially if your sleep problems are caused by stress, anxiety, or physical tension. Unlike many sleep aids, kava doesn't knock you out — instead, it helps you naturally unwind by calming the mind and relaxing the body, making it easier to fall asleep and stay asleep. Unlike prescription sleep drugs, it usually doesn't cause next-day grogginess is used in reasonable doses.

When and How to Take It for Sleep?

Is kava a stimulant or a depressant? Kava is a depressant — not a stimulant. But it's a unique kind of depressant that can feel both calming and slightly uplifting, depending on the dose and the type.

What does "depressant" mean?

In this context, depressant refers to a substance that slows down activity in the central nervous system (CNS) — helping with:

• Anxiety relief

• Muscle relaxation

• Reduced mental overactivity

• Sleep support

So even though the word "depressant" sounds negative, it really just means it has a calming, slowing effect on the body and brain — not that it causes depression.

What are the active ingredients? The primary active compounds in kava are called kavalactones.  — there are 6 major ones:

1. Kavain

2. Dihydrokavain

3. Methysticin

4. Dihydromethysticin

5. Yangonin

6. Desmethoxyyangonin

These interact with the brain’s GABA receptors and other systems, producing calming, euphoric, or mildly sedating effects.

Safety & Side Effects:

Is kava safe to use? Kava is likely safe if:

• You're using high-quality, noble kava (not tudei or poor-quality extracts).

• You're taking moderate, occasional doses.

• You have no liver problems.

• You’re not mixing it with alcohol, sedatives, or other liver-stressing substances.

• You’re not using it daily long-term without breaks.

Used traditionally in the South Pacific for thousands of years, kava has a strong safety record — but only when prepared from the root and used as a water-based extract.

What are the side effects or kava? Kava can cause side effects, especially if it's taken in high doses, used frequently, or sourced from poor-quality materials. Most side effects are mild and temporary, but a few can be serious if kava is misused.

Common (Mild to Moderate) Side Effects

These usually occur at moderate to high doses or when you're new to kava:

Can kava cause liver damage? Yes, kava (Piper methysticum), a plant used traditionally in the South Pacific for its calming effects, can cause liver damage — in some cases, serious or even fatal.

There is well-documented evidence that kava can cause hepatotoxicity (liver toxicity), including:

Reported liver effects:

• Hepatitis

• Cirrhosis

• Acute liver failure (requiring transplants or causing death)

• Elevated liver enzymes (a warning sign)

The issue is serious enough that:

• Germany, Canada, the UK, and others have banned or restricted kava in the past due to liver injury reports.

• The U.S. FDA issued a consumer advisory in 2002 about the potential risk of liver damage.

Factors that affect risk:

1. Preparation method

   • Traditional aqueous (water-based) kava seems safer

   • Some commercial extracts (especially acetone or ethanol-based) are more hepatotoxic

2. Plant parts used

   • Traditional kava uses only the peeled root or rhizome

   • Use of stems or leaves (which contain toxic alkaloids) increases risk significantly

3. Dose and duration

   • Long-term, heavy use is associated with scaly skin, weight loss, and liver stress

   • Even short-term use has caused liver failure in rare cases

4. Individual susceptibility

   • Genetics, liver health, alcohol use, or drug interactions may increase risk

How to reduce risk of liver damage (if you choose to use it)?

If you're considering kava use:

• Choose water-based preparations from reputable sources

• Avoid products that do not clearly state which plant parts are used

• Do not mix with alcohol, acetaminophen, or other hepatotoxic drugs

• Use only for short durations, and monitor liver function if possible

• Avoid completely if you have any history of liver disease

How much kava is too much? The exact amount of kava that is “too much” depends on multiple factors — including the form of kava, your body weight, liver health, and how often you use it. That said, here are general guidelines, safety thresholds, and expert recommendations:

General Safe Dosage Guidelines

Traditional Root Powder (water-extracted)

• Typical safe dose:
  10–30 grams of dried root powder per day
  (used in a water-based brew, not alcohol-based)

• Equivalent to:
  ~250–300 mg of kavalactones (active compounds) per dose
  (up to 250–400 mg/day is generally considered safe short-term)

• Traditional use in the South Pacific often involves ~100–250 mg of kavalactones in a session, occasionally more, but not daily.

Is kava addictive? Kava is not considered physically addictive in the way substances like nicotine, alcohol, or opioids are — but that doesn't mean it's completely risk-free from a dependency standpoint. 

While kava isn’t chemically addictive, some people may become psychologically reliant on it — especially if they use it:

• Daily to manage anxiety, stress, or sleep

• In place of therapy or other longer-term solutions

• As a habitual coping mechanism (similar to cannabis or alcohol)

In those cases, people may feel like they need kava to function, even if there's no physical withdrawal.

Preparation & Use:

How do you prepare kava? The traditional preparation involves:

1. Drying and grinding the kava root into a powder.

2. Mixing the powder with water.

3. Kneading or squeezing the mixture in a cloth to extract the active compounds (called kavalactones).

4. Straining and drinking the final liquid — often described as earthy, muddy, and numbing.

What is the best way to consume kava (tea, capsule, tincture)? The best way to consume kava depends on your goals (e.g. stress relief, social relaxation, sleep), your tolerance for taste, and how much time you're willing to invest in preparation. Here's a breakdown of the main forms of kava, how they compare, and who they're best for:

🥇 1. Traditional Kava Tea (Best Overall Effect)

Made by kneading ground kava root in water and straining it. Best for: People wanting full effects, deeper relaxation, or a social/ritual experience

✅ Pros:

• Most effective form — full spectrum of kavalactones preserved.
• Traditional, ceremonial, and fast-acting (effects in 15–30 mins).
• Good for social use, deep relaxation, or evening rituals.

❌ Cons:

• Time-consuming to prepare (10–15 mins).
• Earthy, muddy taste (can be off-putting).
• Can require a large volume to drink (1–2 cups minimum).

💊 2. Capsules or Pills (Most Convenient)

Standardized powdered kava root in capsule form. Best for: Busy people, travelers, or those using kava for anxiety/stress in daily life

✅ Pros:

• Super convenient and portable.
• No taste to deal with.
• Good for daily anxiety management or travel.

❌ Cons:

• Slower onset (can take 30–60 mins).
• Often less potent than brewed kava.
• Quality varies a lot — some contain low kavalactone content or fillers.

💧 3. Tinctures or Liquid Extracts (Fast & Flexible)

Alcohol- or glycerin-based extracts, taken under the tongue or in water. Best for: People wanting fast anxiety relief without making tea

✅ Pros:

• Fast-acting if taken sublingually (under tongue).
• Easy to control dose.
• Portable and doesn’t require prep.

❌ Cons:

• Potency varies widely by brand.
• Some alcohol-based tinctures can sting or burn under the tongue.
• May not give full-body relaxation like traditional tea.

🧊 4. Instant Kava Mix (Quick + Tasty Option)

Micronized kava or pre-made drink mixes. Best for: Beginners or casual users who don’t want to prep traditional tea

✅ Pros:

• Quick to mix with water or juice — no straining required.
• Tastes better than traditional kava.
• Some are moderately strong and convenient.

❌ Cons:

• Can be expensive.
• Not as potent as fresh-brewed kava.
• Some contain flavorings, fillers, or added sugar.

How long does it take for kava to kick in and how long do the effects last? 

⏱️ Timeline of Effects:

Are there any side effects due to chronic use? Heavy, long-term use of kava (daily over months) may cause:

• Dry, flaky, yellowish skin (a condition called kava dermopathy)

• Tiredness, weight loss, or appetite changes

• Possible tolerance or dependence in rare cases

Why Fiji Kava:

Whats makes Fiji kava different? Fiji Kava is one of the well-known and highly regarded types of kava, and it has its own distinct qualities based on the region where it's grown, the strain of the kava plant, and the preparation method. The term "Fiji kava" generally refers to kava grown in Fiji, but there are also differences within Fiji itself, as different cultivars and growing conditions can result in different effects.

Here’s a breakdown of the key differences and what makes Fiji kava unique:

What are the types of Fiji kava strains? Fiji is known for its “heady” and “balanced” kava strains, though there’s a range of kava types depending on where it's grown in Fiji:

1. Tongan Strain (Fiji Kava):

   • Effect: Often lighter, mildly euphoric, and mentally relaxing. Not overly sedative.

   • Uses: Great for social anxiety and mood boosting, making it good for daytime use or social settings.

2. Fijian Kava (a more general term for multiple types):

   • Effect: Can be balanced between relaxation and euphoria, but generally less heavy than other strains like Vanuatu or Tudei kava.

   • Uses: Good for general relaxation without being overly sedative. Suitable for stress relief during the day and anxiety relief at moderate doses.

3. Fiji Vula (another specific cultivar):

   • Effect: Typically more sedative than other Fijian types, and often preferred for evening use or sleep support.

   • Uses: Best for sleep or relaxation after a stressful day.

What are the growing conditions in Fiji? Kava in Fiji thrives in volcanic soil and tropical conditions, contributing to its distinct flavor profile and unique effects. The rootstock, known for being rich in kavalactones, is especially potent in certain regions. The traditional methods used for growing and harvesting are passed down through generations, with special care taken in selecting only the best rootstocks for consumption.

• High kavalactone content: This is key for effective kava. Fijian kava is known for having a moderate to high kavalactone content (usually around 8–12%), which makes it effective but not overly intense.

• Noble Kava: Most Fijian kava strains used for consumption are "noble" kava, meaning they are of high quality and less likely to cause negative side effects, such as liver toxicity.

What is the flavor & taste of Fiji kava?

• Taste: Fiji kava generally has a milder, smoother taste compared to other types (e.g., Vanuatu kava, which is often more earthy and bitter).

• Mouthfeel: Like other kavas, Fijian kava produces a numbing or tingling sensation in the mouth, but some people find it less intense than other kava varieties.

Shipping:

Do you ship worldwide? Generally, we only ship within the United States and it's territories. We are willing to discuss shipping internationally, so please contact us if you are outside the United States and would like us to ship to you.

How long is your processing time for shipping? We process your order a ship your package by the end of the next business day (Mon-Fri, excluding holidays).

Returns & Refunds:

What is your return policy? We do not accept returns or exchanges to maintain product integrity and customer safety. We do however offer a partial refund on items that are damaged or compromised. Please reach out to us with questions or concerns.

Discounts on larger orders:

Can I get a discount if I want to order a large amount? We offer discounts on order over 5kg. Please contact us if you are interested in a discount for a large order.

Warnings and Disclosures:

• DO NOT drive or operate heavy machinery after consumption. Kava may cause drowsiness and impair judgment.

• Consult your doctor if pregnant, nursing, taking medication, or have a medical condition (especially liver issues). Avoid alcohol and other sedatives when using kava. Discontinue use if adverse reactions occur.

• No alcohol or sedatives should be mixed with kava — it amplifies depressant effects.

• Heavy or chronic use may affect liver enzymes, though this risk is mostly linked to low-quality or improperly prepared kava.

• Liver toxicity and damage is a big concern surrounding kava consumption. A handful of reports (mainly from Europe in the early 2000s) linked kava extracts to hepatotoxicity, including liver failure.