Kava (Piper methysticum) is a tropical evergreen shrub native to the islands of the Pacific Ocean. It has been used medicinally, ceremonially, and recreationally for centuries by numerous cultures across Polynesia and Micronesia. The active compounds in kava are mainly concentrated in its roots and have three core components: kavalactones, flavokavains, and kawain.
Kavalactones are the main active compounds in kava and are mainly responsible for its calming effects. They have been studied extensively for their anxiolytic (anti-anxiety), analgesic (pain relief), sedative, and anti-inflammatory properties. Flavokavains are secondary metabolites found in the leaves and stems of kava, while kawain is a primary metabolite found only in the roots. All three components work together to provide relaxation and stress relief.
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