The Health Benefits of Kava: Stress Relief, Sleep Aid, and Beyond
Is Kava Good for You? Absolutely—Here’s Why
Kava, made from the pulverised root of Piper methysticum (a member of the pepper family), is a traditional drink consumed for centuries by people who know how to relax and live well. Simple to prepare, traditional kava requires only kava powder and water. But beyond simplicity lies a wealth of benefits.
Low-Calorie Bliss
Unlike alcohol, kava is exceptionally low in calories. Let’s break it down:
- Craft Beer Lovers: A pint of craft beer can have over 250 calories, with Belgian beers reaching 350 calories—a caloric equivalent to a slice of chocolate cake.
- Wine Enthusiasts: A bottle of red wine contains roughly 650 calories, which is similar to eating three Big Macs after dinner.
Kava Drinkers? One coconut shell of kava (about 200–250ml) has only 5 calories: the same as a small carrot! Even with three or four shells, you’re consuming just 15–20 calories.
Nutritional Bonus
Kava contains small amounts of potassium, calcium, and magnesium. While these minerals aren’t the main reason we drink kava, they contribute to the drink’s overall health profile.
Kavalactones: The Active Magic in Kava
Kava’s unique properties come from kavalactones, naturally occurring compounds that account for 7–15% of the root’s dry weight. These compounds are what make kava a calming, mood-enhancing drink.
Key Kavalactones and Their Benefits
- Kavain: Relaxes muscles and promotes physical ease.
- Dihydrokavain: Reduces anxiety and stress.
- Methysticum: Calms the central nervous system.
What Does Kava Do?
Kava delivers a soothing dopamine hit, enveloping you in a wave of euphoria and contentment. It:
- Settles your nerves.
- Helps you stay calm under pressure.
- Makes you more tolerant of life’s challenges (and difficult people).
Kava for Sleep
Yes, kava can improve sleep quality. However, the effect depends on the type of kava:
- Heady Kavas: Energising and uplifting—perfect for socialising.
- Heavy Kavas: Body-focused and deeply relaxing, these are ideal for unwinding and achieving restful sleep.
With over 100 identified kava cultivars, there’s a perfect kava for every mood and need.
What Is "Noble" Kava?
Not all kava is created equal. The best, safest, and most enjoyable kava is Noble Kava. It contains higher levels of beneficial kavalactones like kavain and dihydrokavain, making it ideal for daily consumption.
Avoid "tudei" kava (so named because it can make you feel unwell for two days). Rest assured, legally exported kava from Vanuatu is strictly Noble Kava. Always buy from trusted suppliers who know and enjoy kava themselves.
Health Benefits of Kava
- Reduces stress: Chronic stress is a killer, and kava helps combat it.
- Supports sleep: Kava promotes restorative sleep, essential for healing and overall health.
- Weight management: Kava is virtually calorie-free, unlike alcohol, which contributes to weight gain.
- Social connection: Kava is a natural, healthy lubricant for meaningful conversations and connections.
Why Drink Kava?
Kava is more than a drink—it’s a lifestyle choice. Swap out alcohol for kava and enjoy a life of relaxation, better sleep, and social connection without the empty calories or harmful effects.
Drink kava. Get happy. Stay healthy.