If you have been hearing the word "kava" more often lately, you are not alone. Kava bars are opening across the country, and The Spot right here in Nashua, NH is proud to be part of that movement. But what exactly is kava, and why are so many people turning to it?
Ancient Roots in the Pacific
Kava, known scientifically as Piper methysticum, is a plant native to the South Pacific Islands. For over 3,000 years, communities across Fiji, Tonga, Vanuatu, Samoa, and Hawaii have cultivated kava and used it in ceremonies, social gatherings, and traditional medicine. The word "kava" comes from the Polynesian word meaning "bitter," which describes the earthy, slightly peppery taste of the traditional drink made from its root.
In Pacific Island cultures, kava is far more than a beverage. It is a symbol of respect, community, and peace. Chiefs drink kava before important meetings. Villages share kava to welcome visitors. The ceremony of preparing and drinking kava together has been a cornerstone of island life for millennia.
How Kava Works
The active compounds in kava are called kavalactones. There are 18 known kavalactones, with six considered the most significant. These compounds interact with the brain's limbic system, particularly GABA receptors, to produce feelings of calm, relaxation, and mild euphoria. Unlike alcohol, kava does not impair cognitive function or motor skills at normal serving sizes. You stay clear-headed and present while feeling genuinely relaxed and sociable.
The experience is often described as a warm wave of calm that settles over your body. Muscle tension eases, social anxiety fades, and conversation flows more freely. Many people say kava gives them the social ease of a drink or two without the sloppiness, impaired judgment, or next-day hangover.
Is Kava Legal and Safe?
Kava is fully legal in the United States and is classified as an herbal supplement by the FDA. It is sold in health food stores, specialty shops, and kava bars nationwide. The World Health Organization conducted a thorough review and concluded that kava made from noble cultivars and prepared traditionally from the root (not stems or leaves) has an acceptable level of risk when consumed responsibly.
At The Spot, our kava bar in Nashua serves only premium noble kava sourced from reputable growers in the Pacific Islands. Whether you are kava-curious or a seasoned drinker, our staff is happy to walk you through the menu and help you find the perfect shell. Stop by 217 Main Street and discover what the Pacific Islands have known for 3,000 years.