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Kava

Kava. The past, present and future of Kava. What is Kava?. Scientific Name: Piper Methysticum Translation of name: Intoxicating pepper Also known as kava-kava, ‘awa (Hawai’i), ‘ava (Samoa), yaqona (Fiji), and sakau (phonpei). Kava is considered to be a sacred part of Polynesian culture.

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Kava

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  1. Kava The past, present and future of Kava.

  2. What is Kava? • Scientific Name: Piper Methysticum • Translation of name: Intoxicating pepper • Also known as kava-kava, ‘awa (Hawai’i), ‘ava (Samoa), yaqona (Fiji), and sakau (phonpei). • Kava is considered to be a sacred part of Polynesian culture. • Over 30 different species of kava. • Used as a homeopathic medicine.

  3. How Kava is prepared • Begin with Kava root • Dry the Kava • Grind the root into a fine powder • Steep in water • Enjoy

  4. Faikava (kava circle) • Commonly formed for events like funerals and weddings • Used to court females (usually the female preparing the Kava). • Allows elders to teach the younger generations about their culture and heritage. • Kava is given as a gift of friendship.

  5. Benefits of Kava use • Homeopathic anti-anxiety medication. • Used to alleviate muscle pain. • Kava root is chewed to numb pain from toothaches. • Used to treat insomnia.

  6. Risks associated with Kava KAVALACTONE STRUCTURE. • Overuse can cause skin rash. • Some studies have shown long term use can result in a Niacin deficiency • In rare cases possible liver damage may occur..

  7. Commercialization of Kava • Products based upon the calming benefits of the plant arebeing mass produced. • These include: • Beverages • Herbal supplements • And Cosmetics

  8. Abuse of Kava • With the commercialization and abuse of kava the worries arise that; • It will lose its status of a sacred crop. • It will be abused for its intoxicating properties. • Newer generations of Pacific Islanders will lose the connection their ancestors have had with Kava.

  9. Restoring the culture of Kava • How can this sacred plant keep its place in Polynesian culture? • The best way to restore Kava being used for it’s intended sacred and ceremonial purposes is to educate younger generations on the proper use of Kava. • The patriarchs of families must ensure they set the example for their sons in regards to kava.

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