Also known as Kava Kava, Kawa, Awa, Waka, Lawena, or Yaqona, Kava is a sprawling Polynesian evergreen shrub, a member of the pepper family. The main part of the plant used is the large root. It's active ingredient is kavalactones . It flourishes in high humidity, warmth and shade.
Most kava is native to stream beds in warm climates like that of Hawaii.
As a beverage, kava is a depressant, and about ten minutes after consumption the effects of kava can be felt. Small dosages make people relaxed and friendly and unlike the affects of alcohol, it does not impair alertness or attentiveness in anyway. Another difference between kava and many other depressents, it is not known to be addictive. In Hawaiian, awa means bitter and refers to the pungent taste of the beverage. In large dosages the powerful, soporific can produce a deep dreamless sleep.