Kava is a shrubby plant that is native to the Pacific islands, including
Hawaii, Fiji and the Samoas and Tonga. As a member of the Piperaceae
family, the plant is closely related to
black pepper. In contrast to the
sharp, pungent flavor of its botanical cousin, kava herb is described as
earthy and bitter. In fact, its common name is Tongan for “sour.”
For more than 3,000 years, kava has been used to make ceremonial
beverages in various South Pacific cultures. The herb has a complex
pharmacological profile that includes mild sedative and analgesic
qualities.
