Kava can be an excellent way to unwind at the end of the day. Before you head to a kava bar or order from a supplier, here's what's worth knowing.
Don't mix with other medications
If you take prescription medication, talk to a doctor or pharmacist before drinking kava. It can have additive effects with sedating medications, and interactions with other drug classes are possible too.
Use root, not stem or leaf
Beverage Grade kava comes from the root of the plant. Material from other parts of the plant is a different thing entirely, and it's part of why sourcing from a supplier who tests every lot matters.
Understand reverse tolerance
Some new drinkers feel little effect during their first few sessions before a more noticeable response develops. That's a documented, if not fully understood, pattern — not a sign that kava "isn't working" for you.
Start low and go slow
Start with a modest amount and see how it affects you before having more. Responses vary significantly between individuals, and there's no universal dose that's right for everyone.
Don't mix with alcohol
We don't recommend combining the two.
Be cautious mixing with other herbal supplements
Just because something is natural doesn't mean it's automatically safe to combine with kava. If you take other herbal supplements regularly, it's worth understanding potential interactions.
Never drive after drinking kava
Kava can affect coordination and reaction time even when your thinking feels clear.
Prepare it correctly
Learn our full traditional preparation method → for the best, most consistent results.