FREE SHIPPING! Due to high demand, capsule orders may take 1-2 days to process! SAME DAY SHIPPING (up to 2pm CST) New customers save 10% off with code WELCOME10 Due to high demand, capsule orders may take 1-2 days before shipment
New customers save 10% off with code WELCOME10
FREE SHIPPING ON ALL ORDERS
All orders ship free (orders $20 or more get upgraded to USPS priority Mail) All orders ship free (orders $20 or more get upgraded to USPS priority Mail) All orders ship free (orders $20 or more get upgraded to USPS priority Mail)
Home
Kava Strains: Everything You Need To Know

Kava Strains: Everything You Need To Know

The Kava market has become shrouded over time. Many people like you find themselves surrounded by questions and half-answers. One major one is understanding what is meant by ‘Kava strains’ — how many there are and whether each gives a different effect. All these questions, if left unanswered, can disrupt your overall experience, especially if it’s your first time trying Kava. You need clarity about each strain — and that’s exactly what this blog will help you with. It lays out every essential detail you should know.

Table Of Contents:

What Are Kava Strains?

A Kava strain, or cultivar, is a specific variety of the Piper methysticum plant. These cultivated varieties exhibit different characteristics and have been bred over generations in the South Pacific and its neighboring regions. Each variety, due to a different Kavalactone concentration, brings an entirely new experience. This experience may either lean more toward the mental side, associated with a cheerful [1] and chill mood [2], or toward the heavier side, i.e., involving a sedated feeling [3].

How Many Strains Of Kava Exist?

According to a NCBI report, currently, there are over 100 Kava varieties, with some estimates suggesting a higher number, possibly as high as 200. The factors responsible for such diversity include selective human propagation techniques, weather, and climatic conditions. Additionally, since the Kava plant is sterile and does not reproduce naturally, islanders in the Pacific region cultivate different varieties and trade them based on their unique characteristics and chemical composition. To regulate the industry and ensure product safety, Vanuatu—a region where Kava was first domesticated—categorized all its varieties into four groups under the Kava Act of 2002. The upcoming section will provide an overview of the four groups.

Four Main Categories Of Kava

The Kava Act, enforced by the Vanuatu government in 2002, categorized Kava cultivars into four groups: Medicinal, Wichmannii, Noble, and Tudei Kava. Let’s understand each category in brief.

1. Noble Kava

Noble Kava encompasses hundreds of Kava varieties, each having a unique chemical fingerprint. The Kavalactone profile of each variety is different and ranges from light to medium. Unlike Tudei Kava, these varieties do not lead to sedation and are appreciated for their wide spectrum of effects. The short-lived effects, with a comparatively low risk of adverse side effects, make them suitable for daily consumption, especially during the daytime. The Vanuatu government approves this category for general export.

2. Tudei Kava

Tudei, pronounced “two-day,” is a Kava variety with a higher concentration of Kavalactones, primarily Dihydromethysticin and Dihydrokavain. The associated effects, though fast-acting and long-lasting, are overpowering, which is why Tudei Kava is not recommended for daily consumption. There is even a potential “hangover feeling” effect associated with this variety, which is why the Vanuatu government has officially banned its export.

3. Medicinal Kava

The medicinal Kava category includes specific cultivars with a history of use, producing various beneficial effects. All the varieties that come under this category are non-recreational. Both traditional healers and herbalists rely on these varieties for medicinal applications due to their more intense and extended effects. The Vanuatu government, however, has banned their export due to potential risks arising from their use in the wrong context or at incorrect dosages. For research purposes and under proper authorization, they may be traded to Western markets.

4. Wichmannii Kava

Wichmannii (Piper wichmannii) is the wild species that is the ancestor of modern, domesticated Kava (Piper methysticum). Due to high levels of certain compounds, such as flavokavains and potential for toxicity, it is not meant for human consumption. A ban is imposed by the government on its export to protect consumers and the reputation of the Kava market worldwide. From the above explanation, it is clear that only Noble Kava can be traded, meaning the strains you likely see available both online and offline have Noble roots. However, it is worth noting that this variety is further classified into three types based on effect profile: Heavy, Heady, and Balanced. Here’s what each profile means.
  1. Heady Kava is known to offer mood-lifting [4] and cerebral effects [5]. Yangonin and Kavain are the dominant Kavalactones that are responsible for producing such effects. This light chemotype fingerprint usually presents Heavy Kava as a suitable option during daytime social occasions.
  2. Heavy Kava leads to more physical relaxation [6] and sedative effects [7]. Due to a heavier concentration of other Kavalactones, primarily DHM and DHK, it is usually consumed at night or when it is time to rest.
  3. Balanced Kava, as the name suggests, combines a versatile mix of both heady and heavy effects. Both beginners and enthusiasts find it a popular choice and may consume it during the day or night.
Different Kava strains lead to different effects. Everything from regional differences to chemotype affects the likelihood of certain effects. Here’s a table outlining several popular Kava strains.
Heady Kava Strains Heavy Kava Strains Balanced Kava Strains
  • Pouni Ono (Tonga)
  • Damu (Fiji)
  • Kelai (Vanuatu)
  • Samoa Ava (Samoa)
  • Taveuni Waka (Fiji)
  • Borongoru (Vanuatu)
  • Melomelo (Vanuatu)
  • Vula Waka (Fiji)
  • Loa Waka (Fiji)
  • Borogu (Vanuatu)
  • Solomon Islands varieties

How To Choose The Right Kava Strain For You?

Choosing an appropriate Kava strain requires an understanding of several factors [8].

1. Desired effects

Since Noble Kava strains are the only regulated varieties sold in markets and are categorized by three effects (heady, heavy & balanced), you should consider which effects you wish to experience.

2. Kavalactone chemotype

This six-digit code indicates the concentration of the six major Kavalactones. Each Kavalactone is assigned a code, and the format is presented in descending order (high to low). Beginners, especially, should interpret the code by requesting an HP-TLC report from the vendor they are buying from, and then choose their preferred variety from the available Kava strains.
  • Chemotypes starting with 4 (Kavain)⟶ that particular strain is going to offer a more heady effect.
  • Chemotypes starting with 2 (Dihydrokavain) or 5 (Dihydromethysticin),⟶ that particular strain is sedative (heavy effect).
Note: Chemotypes alone may not explain everything, though knowing them helps greatly in distinguishing one variety from another. The first number in the code often stands out as the key marker, but the rest also hold influence. Moreover, elements such as Kava’s age, how it’s grown, and its root-to-stump ratio affect the end result.

3. Root type

The type of root also decides what sort of effect intensity you are likely to experience with that decided Kava strain of yours. There are usually two parts:

Lateral roots:

These roots are thin and spread out from the plant. They exhibit a potent Kavalactone profile, resulting in stronger effects.

Basal roots (stump):

The thicker, woodier part of the root system contains a comparatively less potent Kavalactone profile. Associated effects are usually mild & pleasant.

4. Processed form

Kava is available in several processed forms, including powders, extracts, and capsules, but it is traditionally prepared and enjoyed as a tea-like beverage. For the powder formats, you can choose between medium grind, which requires straining, or micronized Kava, where the root is ground so finely that it can be mixed directly into a drink. For maximum convenience, instant Kava powder is readily available, which is made from a water extraction that is then dehydrated. Ultimately, the best format is a matter of your personal preference and convenience.

Final Thoughts

The confusion surrounding Kava strains isn’t unusual — and that’s exactly what this blog aimed to clear. From explaining what Kava strains are, how many exist, the four major Kava categories, to popular varieties, it covered everything needed to help you choose confidently. However, knowing whether you need a heady, heavy, or balanced strain is a personal process. Weigh your desired effects, interpret chemotype codes, and review root-type details shared by your preferred vendor. Each of these aspects can completely shape your overall experience. Always buy from reliable sources that prioritize quality and transparency. Mitraman Botanicals is one trusted name that offers lab-tested Kava varieties you can always count on. Check our Kava collection today!

FAQs

1. Which Kava strains and effects are ideal for beginners?

Noble Kava strains are often ideal for beginners, especially the “Heady” and “Balanced” types. These strains offer pleasant, well-rounded effects without the intense or long-lasting impact of non-noble varieties like Tudei. For best results, it’s always wise to consult your personal physician before trying any strain or variety.

2. Is Kava legal?

Yes, Kava is legal in the United States and is available in specialty Kava bars. However, its legality and regulations differ from country to country. Therefore, it’s important to check your local laws before buying or consuming it.

3. What is the best strain of Kava?

There is no single “best” strain of Kava, as the right one depends on the effects you’re looking for. Beginners may find Heady and Balanced strains more suitable, while experienced users might prefer Heavy strains or Tudei. It’s worth noting that Vanuatu’s Kava Act prohibits the export of the Tudei variety.

4. Does Kava help with anxiety?

According to an NCBI report, Kava may help manage anxiety. However, its effects can vary from person to person, so the experience may not be the same for everyone.

5. Does Kava cause euphoria?

Kava is gaining popularity as more people consume it for recreational purposes. Studies, including one from NCBI, suggest that Kava can lead to a mild euphoric feeling in some individuals.
0
    0
    Your Cart
    Your cart is emptyReturn to Shop
    Continue Shopping

    Join Our Newsletter!

    We’d love to keep you updated with our latest news and offers.

    We don’t spam! Read our privacy policy for more info.