Vanuatu Kava Root Powder

‘Awa – Hawaiian Kava

Piper methysticum, is the cherished medicine for the hawaiians.

‘Awa is a relative of black pepper (Piper nigrum) & is found on
high islands throughout the tropical pacific. In Hawaii at least 12
varieties of the plant have been grown across the state. The
principal constituent of ‘Awa is Kava lactones which are found
mainly the roots of the plant. A drink made from the polarized
roots has commonly been used as a painkiller and to induce sleep
but also has been used to clean the urinary tract and for rheumatism
and asthma. In Hawaii the drink was used for recreation and to give
relief from the strain of hard work.
‘Awa is a cultivar which does not produce seeds & is propagated
by cuttings of the stem joints, it is grown in shaded area.

Handy, E.S. Craighill 1940. “ The Hawaiian Plan Bishop Museum
Press. Honolulu, HI. 227 p.