THE HISTORY OF KAVA

THE HISTORY OF KAVA

The plant thrives in the islands of Vanuatu, Fiji, Tonga, Samoa, Pohnpei, New Guinea and Hawaii. No one knows exactly where the kava plant originated from however, there is strong evidence to suggest that Vanuatu is its origin. Captain James Cook was the first known encounter with kava during the voyage of 1768-1771. Captain Cook gave the kava plant its name of “intoxicating pepper.” Kava was prepared by pounding or chewing the root. In many areas virgin boys or girls were selected to masticate the kava, since they were considered to be pure and clean. The kava drink has many uses in the South Pacific Islands. Primarily it is consumed in ceremonies such as funerals and other religious events amongst tribe members however, it is also consumed in a social manner.

Kava began to make its way into the mainstream in the United States in the early 2000’s.