Is Kava a Safer Alternative to Alcohol?

Some of the most frequently asked questions are how is Kava different from alcohol, and if it can be used as an alcohol substitute.

In this article, we’re looking at the differences between Alcohol and Kava, and discuss advantages and disadvantages, and why Kava should be considered a safer alternative to Alcohol.

Kava, also referred to as Kava Kava, is a plant belonging to the South Pacific Islands. The native people there use the plant’s roots to make a ceremonial and social drink. The preparation practice of making the root into a tea has been carried on for centuries. Due to its relaxing effects and natural, good finish, the beverage has grown popular in the United States. 

Kava is traditionally a social drink, where drinkers sit peacefully around a big wooden bowl called a “Tanoa” full of Kava tea.

While kava possesses anxiety-relieving and muscle-relaxing qualities, kava has little effect on the brain, making it ideal for a relaxing social atmosphere.  It is also known for making people more friendly and pleasant due to its shared experience, which brings people together. As a result, kava has been a symbol of friendliness and harmony in many Polynesian countries, and now encroaching on the western world.

One of the most appealing aspects of kava, particularly for health-conscious people, is that it offers effects comparable to alcohol but without the downside of being a processed chemical. There are many studies that indicate Kava is a safer option than alcohol.

How Does Kava Differ From Alcohol?

Kava has been used for a variety of purposes, ranging from ritual to medical to pleasure. As a result, it can be argued that it has performed a function in many Oceanian civilizations that is comparable to that of alcohol in Western societies.

However, there are a few key distinctions between kava and alcohol. These are:

Unlike Alcohol, Kava Is Not Addictive

Kava is not addictive, and those who use kava for a long time have shown to have no issues on quitting. There have been claims about people having withdrawal symptoms after stopping Kava. This however has been denied by long-term heavy kava users. Infact, kava abstinence as a part of cultural observance is common. Furthermore, it does not appear that kava tolerance may be developed. It is quite the opposite! Kava is characterized by a phenomenon known as “reverse tolerance,” in which new users need significantly more of the herb to feel any effects than individuals who use it regularly. More herb, can be considered more servings of the tea in this case.  

The Psychoactive Properties Of Kava

The presence of kavalactones, the key chemicals that give kava its euphoric effects, gives it the psychedelic qualities. These chemicals act in non-opiate brain pathways to produce a relaxing feel. For this and many other reasons, kava is considered a good additional tool for anxiety. 

Note: Please consult with your doctor if you are considering using this as an alternative to medication. We do not recommend changing anything without consulting your doctor. Kava is not meant to cure or treat any disease or illness.

Because of Kavalactone’s neuroprotective characteristics, a preliminary study suggests that kava may even be excellent for a range of other uses.

Effects Of Kava Not Only Depend Upon Active Chemicals (Kavalactones) But Also On Dispersion And Quantity

Based on the concentrations of the varying Kavalactones, some Kavas have euphoric and psychologically uplifting properties, while others provide a dosing or calming effect. Alcohol’s effects, on the other hand, are solely due to ethanol. Different alcoholic beverages contain varying amounts of ethanol, and different drinking styles can result in varying degrees of intoxication.

Effects Of Kava Get Deeper And Stronger Over Time And Practice 

Many first-time kava users report feeling nothing or experiencing just minor effects from the plant. Kava is subject to a phenomenon known as “Reverse tolerance”, which means the more often you partake in Kava teas, the stronger the effects will be with the same serving size. One thing that holds true, is that even first timers should feel the numbing of the tongue upon their first drink. The sensations grow stronger over time, and the person feels calmer and more at peace.

Kava Is, At Its Core, A Calming Substance

Its ingestion is generally linked to a calm demeanor and interactions. The link comes from kava being renowned for its calming properties. It may also have to do with kava being taken in a calm, relaxing, social environment. 

Where Can You Find Kava?

Kava bars in Portland, Oregon, such as the Bula Kava House, provide a variety of kava in different amounts and tastes. Other businesses, such as Kavasutra, a kava bar with outlets in New York City, Denver, and Fort Lauderdale, among others, are becoming staples of alternative urban lifestyle, providing fresh, high-quality kava in a relaxed, inviting atmosphere.

Kava, like most pleasurable substances, must be consumed in moderation and never in combination with alcohol. When used in moderation, Kava may be an excellent way to connect with others and unwind after a long day.

If traveling to kava bars isn’t your thing, our online store offers high quality Kava for sale that you can order online at a fraction of the cost.

We hope you’ve enjoyed this article!