Trying Kava for the First Time – What to Expect?
Now that you have discovered kava, you want to give it a try! Trying kava for the first time – what to expect? That is the real question. Anyone with experience in kava claim they will never forget the first time they tasted it. It helped them feel calmer and mentally and physically relaxed. It also eased sore muscles, eliminated stress, and allowed them to sleep better at night.
Now, some folks who try this herb without preparing appropriately or adequately often do not enjoy their experience. We want to make sure that does not happen to you. We aim to help you understand the things you should expect when you try kava for the first time.
An Overview of Kava
Before moving on to the next section, let us explore the kava drink a little more to find out how it has become such a celebrated form of natural stress relief in multiple locations across the world. To further explore how kava and kratom compare in terms of their stress-relieving properties, check out our detailed comparison on Kava vs. Kratom.
About Kava Root
Scientifically called Piper methysticum, kava is a plant native to the Pacific Islands. It has been a staple there and has been part of cultural practices for hundreds of years. This herb plays a pivotal role in social gatherings and in medicinal and spiritual traditions in places like Tonga, Fiji, and Samoa.
What it Does
The active ingredients in kava are called kavalactones. They are the source of the magical effects. These compounds are primarily responsible for creating the calming effects commonly associated with the herb. After consumption, kavalactones interact with the central nervous system in a way that promotes relaxation without affecting cognitive functions.
The Popularity of Kava
Over the last few years, kava has gained significant attention in the entire wellness community beyond its traditional home. It is lauded for its ability to soothe and calm the mind, and that is why it has become quite famous among people seeking natural methods of combating stress and enhancing relaxation. The presence of kava bars – establishments dedicated to serving this traditional beverage from the Pacific Islands – is also proof is its rising acceptance.
Kava is increasingly recognized as one of the best herbal sleep aids and stress-busting supplements. Anyone seeking an alternative to alcohol to unwind can rely on kava. After all, it does not have any of the adverse effects of alcohol use.
The Experience of Taking Kava
Trying kava for the first time – what to expect? This question will now be answered in detail.
- A Distinctive Earthy Taste
Even after helping you feel great, kava does not taste good. In fact, it might irk first-timers. Medium grind kava root prepared traditionally has a very earthy and somewhat spicy taste. The people of Fiji and Vanuatu, especially the ones who have consumed kava throughout their lives, claim they do not love the taste. They only want the effects.
If you want palatable kava, consider mixing micronized kava with fruit juice. It should make kava extracts taste way better.
- It Will Tingle
Expect a slight numbing sensation after you take the first few sips of the best kava drinks. Just do not let that bother you. This numbness of perfectly normal, lasting only a minute or two. This effect actually means that the kavalactone content in the drink is strong and the beverage is of the highest quality.
- A Range of Relaxation Effects
Kava does not give you just one feeling. It can cause an entire range of effects. Here are a few worth mentioning.
- Eases anxiety
- Induces mental calm
- Euphoria
- Bubbliness
- Increases sociability
- Helps to sleep
- Helps recover faster and intense workouts
- Relaxes muscles
- Different Experiences from Different Varieties
There are numerous variants of kava, with each having a signature concoction of kavalactones. These unique blends produce exclusive relaxation effects. Nonetheless, these effects can be segregated under three groups – heady, heavy, and balanced.
- Heady kava helps you feel happier, more energetic, and may even euphoric.
- Heavy kava helps relax the muscles and body, as well as the mind.
- Balanced kava perfectly balances the effects of heady and heavy kava.
Preparation Depends on Product Choice
You can buy kava drinks of various types from Kratom Lyte, but that is not all. Other kava products include medium grind kava root, micronized kava, kava concentrates, kava teas, and more. Each product varies in strength or potency, and each requires different preparation methods before consumption.
Take it On an Empty Stomach
If you expect the best effects from kava, take it on an empty stomach. Why? When consumed without food, the active ingredients can be absorbed efficiently. Grab a snack immediately after drinking it to get rid of the nauseous feeling that may follow.
Time Taken by the Effects to Kick in
What you personally experience after taking kava depends on your body, how it reacts, how much you drink, etc. Wait around 15-20 minutes before taking a second dose. Within this duration, the tensions should start waning off.
Effect Duration
The variety of kava you drink, its strength, and quantity will dictate how long the effects will last. Generally speaking, the uplifting effects can stick with you anywhere between 1 and 3 hours, while the stress-relieving effects may last much longer. Eventually, you will feel sleepy.
One Last Suggestion
Trying kava for the first time – what to expect? If you have been with us since the beginning, you already have the answer. Before wrapping this up, however, we would like to remind you to choose a reliable vendor with a stellar reputation. Research as many vendors as you can before you buy flavored kava. Look for a brand or retailer focused on safety and product quality. Going for a product with the lowest price tag is not worthwhile. The benefits you gain from kava will be directly related to the quality of the herb. Just like everything else, you get exactly what you pay for.
We genuinely hope that your first-time kava experience is a memorable one. If you are ready to get started, explore our kava products today and take your pick!
FAQs
Q1. Can I drive after drinking kava?
A1. It’s best not to. Kava may cause drowsiness and reduce alertness, even if it doesn’t impair thinking. If you’re new to it, avoid driving or operating anything risky afterward.
Q2. Can kava be mixed with alcohol or medications?
A2. No. Combining kava with alcohol or medications can mess with your liver or increase sedation. Always keep kava separate from other substances to stay on the safe and healthy side.
Q3. Is kava addictive or habit-forming?
A3. Kava isn’t considered addictive, but anything relaxing can turn into a habit. If used responsibly and occasionally, most folks don’t report dependence or cravings with regular kava use.
Q4. What does a kava “hangover” feel like?
A4. Some people feel groggy or foggy the next morning, especially with heavy strains or high doses. Drinking water and keeping it low-key can help avoid that kava “slump” feeling.
Q5. Can I take kava every day?
A5. It’s okay in moderation, but daily use isn’t always ideal. Some people use it 2–3 times a week to unwind, letting their body rest between sessions to avoid tolerance build-up.
