The Easiest Way to Make Kava Taste Better

Why Does Kava Taste Bitter?

Most of us would agree, we don’t drink kava for the taste we drink it for the effects. The effects are wonderful but the taste less so. Why is that?

Kava is a root dug from the ground and as such has an earthy, woody taste. Since the plant, piper methysticum is a member of the pepper family, there is often some pepperiness in there as well. But some kavas can have all this and still taste downright bitter, which can be disagreeable.

The Source of Bitterness

The bitterness comes from the intrinsic chemical compounds of the plant, which help ward off insects. These compounds, called kavalactones, are what give kava its wonderful mood-enhancing properties.

Diving into the plant itself a little more deeply, there are two parts to the kava root:

• Basal root (root ball or chips) – Less bitter

• Lateral roots (waka) – Very bitter due to higher kavalactone concentration

When you drink traditional powdered kava, it is usually a mixture of these two root parts. The bitterness can vary dramatically depending on the ratio of chips to waka, as well as the specific cultivar of kava used.

How to Improve the Taste of Bitter Kava

The Secret Ingredient: Protein

Adding protein to your kava will instantly reduce most of the bitterness. This happens for two key reasons:

1. Protein molecules bind tightly to bitter compounds, rendering them less noticeable.

2. Some protein molecules bind to taste receptors on your tongue, reducing the perception of bitterness.

Ways to Add Protein to Kava

• Protein Powder: The easiest method is adding a spoonful of protein powder to your shell of kava. Many protein powders, especially those used in smoothies, are flavoured (e.g., vanilla), which can make your kava taste like a vanilla smoothie.

• Chocolate Milk: Some older Tongans add chocolate milk to their kava. The casein protein in milk binds with the bitter compounds, improving the taste.

Using Chasers to Mask Bitterness

If you prefer not to add anything directly to your kava, using a chaser is the most common method for removing bitterness from your palate. Some effective chasers include:

• Kombucha – The tangy taste quickly neutralises bitterness.

• Fruit Juice – Sweet, natural flavours counteract the harsh taste of kava.

Enjoy Kava Without the Bitterness

Whichever method you choose, don’t let a little bitterness come between you and happiness. Cheers!