what is kava drink

Kava is a drink or extract made from the root or stump of the Piper methysticum plant, which is native to the Pacific Islands. The drink is often consumed socially and as part of traditional ceremonies and cultural practices throughout the South Pacific Islands. Kava comes in different forms including a brownish-colored drink, brown powder, capsules, extracts, and drops. Kava is a central nervous system depressant, which means it slows down the messages traveling between the brain and the body. The active chemicals in kava are known as kavalactones, which are believed to be responsible for its effects. Kava is said to elevate mood, well-being, and contentment, and produce a feeling of relaxation. Kava is often used for sedative, hypnotic, and muscle-relaxant effects, in much the same way that alcohol is used. Kava has been used as an herbal supplement and traditional remedy for a long time, and it may have relaxing or stress-relieving effects for some people. However, kava has been linked to liver damage when taken in an alcoholic or acetonic extract, and manufactured products such as herbal remedies that contain kava extract have been linked to irreversible liver damage. Therefore, water-based extracts of kava (as a drink or tablet) should not be consumed with alcohol, especially if there is a history of liver damage or disease.