Zen DropsKey takeaways
- Most people describe kava as calm, relaxed and sociable, with the mind staying clear.
- The drink tastes earthy and bitter and briefly numbs the tongue; capsules have no taste.
- Larger amounts can bring muscle relaxation and drowsiness — start low and don’t drive.
- Never combine kava with alcohol or sedatives.
What does kava do?
Kava is the root of a Pacific pepper plant, traditionally prepared as a drink for ceremonies and social gatherings.[1] Its effects are attributed to compounds called kavalactones. People use it to unwind and to feel at ease socially. It is sold in the United States as a dietary supplement.[1]
What does kava feel like?
Experiences vary with the product, the amount and the person, but common descriptions include:
- Calm and relaxed, with a feeling of physical ease;
- Clear-headed: many people say their thinking stays sharp, which is a big part of why kava is compared with alcohol;
- Sociable and talkative, the reason kava is central to Pacific gatherings;
- Relaxed muscles and sleepiness at larger amounts.
Kava does not produce a "high" in the way people describe cannabis or alcohol intoxication. It can still cause drowsiness, so don't drive until you know how it affects you.
What does kava taste like?
The traditional drink is earthy, peppery and bitter, and many first-timers find it an acquired taste. Within seconds it numbs the tongue and lips for a few minutes, a normal and harmless sign of the kavalactones. At kava bars it is often followed by a sweet or fruity "chaser".
Capsules are swallowed whole, so there is no taste and no numbing. The effects start a little later, once the capsule dissolves. See kava capsules vs the drink.
Your first time: what to expect
- Start low. With Zen Drops, that means 1 capsule with a full glass of water.
- Wait an hour. Kava usually takes 20–30 minutes to kick in; see how long kava lasts.
- Be somewhere comfortable, and don't plan to drive.
- No alcohol. Never combine kava with alcohol or sedatives (here's why).
- Notice how you feel before deciding whether a second capsule is needed, and never exceed 4 in 24 hours.
Side effects to watch for
Kava can cause digestive upset, headache and dizziness. Long-term heavy use can cause dry, scaly skin (kava dermopathy). Kava products have been linked to rare cases of liver injury.[1] Read the full kava safety guide, and talk to your healthcare provider first if you take medication or are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Frequently asked questions
Does kava get you high?
Not in the way cannabis or alcohol does. People usually describe feeling calm, relaxed and sociable with a clear head. Larger amounts can cause drowsiness.
Why does kava make my mouth numb?
The kavalactones in the drink briefly numb the tongue and lips. It is normal and wears off within minutes. Capsules do not cause it because they are swallowed whole.
What does kava taste like?
Earthy, peppery and bitter. Many people follow it with a sweet or fruity chaser, or take capsules to avoid the taste altogether.
Will kava make me sleepy?
It can, especially at larger amounts. Don’t drive or operate machinery until you know how kava affects you.
From Zen Drops
Zen Drops Kava Root Extract
75 mg noble kava root extract per capsule with organic ginger and ashwagandha, in a plant-based capsule. Kava grown without pesticides by farmers in Vanuatu and Fiji.
- Noble kava root
- Vegan
- Gluten-free
- 16 capsules
$29.99$39.99Free shipping on orders over $50
Sources
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Talk to your healthcare provider before using kava, especially if you take medication, have liver problems, or are pregnant or breastfeeding.