Famed eighteenth-century explorer Captain Cook may have been the first Westerner to discover this mildly narcotic root. But kava has a history deeply woven throughout the many cultures of the South Pacific. It is one of the few commonalities linking the hundreds of unique cultures spread across thousands of miles of tiny, tropical islands.
Originally a beverage reserved for chiefs, in nations including Samoa, Tonga and Fiji, kava is now drunk ceremoniously to welcome visitors, mark special occasions and create an atmosphere of sharing.
The kava ceremony
Kava in Fiji is one of the country’s most enduring cultural traditions. It is expected of visitors to native villages that they arrive with a root to present to the village chief. The root is then ground and mixed with water in a large, often wooden although occasionally carved stone, communal kava bowl.
The resulting drink is a light beige beverage that looks and smells not unlike dirty laundry water. Participants in a ceremony circle around the kava bowl, seated on the ground. The drink is passed in a half coconut shell. Each guest drinks from the shell, which is refilled and passed to the next guest until the round is complete.
When to drink kava
Many believe the drink should be enjoyed before a meal because it will enhance the taste of food. Others believe its powers of relaxation are cause to share in the ceremonial drinking of kava at the start of an evening. The strength of the drink depends on the ratio of water and the strain and age of the root. (Roots over four years old tend to have the most potency).
Is kava an aphrodisiac?
In recent years, kava has become popular in the United States not as a drink but a dietary supplement. The root has become so popular that it is now a cash crop for both Fiji and Vanuatu. But among its many historic uses, kava was considered an aphrodisiac.
The kava libido link and other possible uses
Physicians of complementary medicine have reported success in treating anxiety, memory loss, mood, and, yes, low libido with kava supplements. So, for the question of whether kava and sex go hand in hand, the answer is a strong maybe. However, it should be noted that in large doses, kava’s muscle-relaxing effects could potentially deflate an evening’s plans for amorous activity.
Kavalactone, the active ingredient in kava, gives the drink tranquilizing powers. In fact, the first effect most drinkers feel is numbness to their lips and gums. It has been used throughout history as a muscle relaxant and anesthetic. But today most drinkers claim that they like it for its ability to elevate mood.
Some proponents say kava even acts as a truth serum, causing drinkers to communicate with open honesty. Much of this so-called “truth serum” effect likely comes from the camaraderie of sharing the kava bowl – many drinkers sit together in a circle around the bowl for hours. However, research suggests that kavalactones does trigger some neurotransmitter activity in the brain.
In my personal experience, I will say that the kava ceremony is definitely a mood-lifting experience but as for stirring the loins, that might be the power of persuasion. For me, the effects were warming yet calming. But whatever your experience with kava, it is likely to be positive.
Potential risks
Our Nutrition Director Delahna Flagg notes that kava is a depressant, meaning that it slows down your central nervous system. While it is safe for most individuals, please be sure to check with your doctor before trying kava if you are taking antidepressants, anxiety medications or have other medical conditions.
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Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and may not be the best fit for you and your personal situation. It should not be construed as medical advice. The information and education provided here are not intended or implied to supplement or replace professional medical treatment, advice, and/or diagnosis. Always check with your own physician or medical professional.
This article was written in 2010 and most recently updated in 2024 with additional research, images and a note on potential side effects.
Amy is considered a leading authority on aphrodisiacs. Her work in aphrodisiacs is quoted in publications including National Geographic, The New York Times, Epicurious, Wine Enthusiast, Health and Playboy magazines. She speaks internationally on aphrodisiac foods and has brought her knowledge of aphrodisiac history and science to national television shows including The Today Show and CBS Early Show. She is a frequent guest on relationship and lifestyle radio and podcast shows and has been interviewed by BBC and NPR radio, Cosmopolitan radio and popular podcasts including My Dad Wrote a Porno.
Amy is also a freelance food, wine and health researcher and writer as well as a wine competition judge. Her work has appeared in publications ranging from Variety to The Daily Meal. She is an MSN content provider. And she is also a former wine editor for Gayot.com and wine & spirits editor of Las Vegas magazine.
Fun fact: Amy was the creator of the first ever comprehensive food and wine apps, Amy Reiley's Pocket Gourmet and Amy Reiley's Pocket Vineyard for Palm.
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