Kava refers both to the kava plant (Piper methysticum) and to the traditional, relaxing non-alcoholic drink made from the plant's roots.

Kava beverage makes you feel relaxed, content in the present moment, and more social — notably, all without diminishing mental clarity or health. The traditionally-made drink has an earthy look, peppery taste, and unique psychoactive effects thanks to its active ingredients called kavalactones. One of the effects is a mild mouth numbing and tingling – this is completely normal and part of the kava experience. Learn more about kava on our media site.

Start with 1-2 servings and wait 10-30 minutes to feel the effects. Drinkers typically need no more than 3-4 servings of KEANU to enjoy a kava session.

Yes, traditional, water-extracted noble kava, which KEANU contains, has been safely consumed for hundreds of years. Kava drinking, like coffee and tea drinking, is safe. Kava has always been legal in the U.S., and traditional, water-extracted noble kava has been endorsed by the World Health Organization (WHO).

No, kava is not addictive. Kava is not classified as a drug and does not have addictive properties like alcohol or other drugs.

KEANU contains instant noble kava brewed from fresh (never dried) kava roots in Vanuatu. Most other U.S. kava brands sell dried kava roots that you have to prepare yourself or products with Chinese ethanolic kavalactone extracts.

No, kava consumption during pregnancy or lactation is not recommended, and you should consult your medical professional regarding any health concerns.

No, kava is not intended for children (just as coffee is not intended for children).

We recommend that only those 18+ enjoy kava.

KEANU kava comes from the Pacific Island nation of Vanuatu. We work with small, independent farmers who supply their freshly harvested 3-5 year old kava plants to our export partners for processing into single-cultivar, instant noble kava.

From the start, KEANU has collaborated with Pacific Island villages, governments, and industry to ensure that kava benefits communities that grow it. Beyond our ethical kava sourcing, we support local development, such as when we donated solar lamps to a Pentecost Island village whose homes were damaged by Cyclone Harold.