About
About Kava
Kava is an ancient plant and a traditional drink of peace from the islands of the South Pacific. Kava is traditionally served in coconut shells, without mixers but often with a piece of fruit for palate cleansing. There are quite a few different kava cultivars (just like there are numerous coffee or wine varieties) with distinct characteristics. For most people the name "kava" refers to both the plant known by botanists as piper methysticum ("intoxicating pepper") and the relaxing beverage made from its rootstock.
The effects of kava depend on such factors as the choice of cultivar, the quality of a specific product and the methods of both preparation and consumption. Generally, kava is known for its relaxing properties and ability to induce sociability and a feeling of harmony without diminishing mental clarity or awareness. For many users, kava is a pleasant, soothing drink that relieves fatigue, relaxes the body after hard work or effort, clarifies the mind and brings a sense of well-being. Many people like to compare drinking kava to the opposite of drinking coffee. Both are used as social drinks. While the latter can give a mild buzz and "kick" of energy, the former is known for its gentle calming and relaxing effects.
Kava is not physically addictive. When consumed in moderation (used, not abused), kava is not psycho-active - meaning it does not make you drunk or high.
The Kava Society in New Zealand has a wonderful website and blog full of information, should you wish to learn more about kava. Their FAQ page is particularly informative.
Consult a medical professional before taking kava if you are pregnant, nursing a baby, or taking any prescription medications. Do not mix with alcohol. Excessive consumption may impair the ability to drive.
How are KavaStation's kava drinks prepared and served?
Kava is traditionally consumed in half cup servings swallowed down in 1 or 2 gulps. Kava works best when consumed on an empty stomach. It is best to cleanse the palate with chaser (e.g. piece of fruit) between "shells" (servings), and to wait 10 minutes between servings. KavaStation will also be serving up delicious "kavatails" for people who enjoy a tastier option than the traditional presentation. Each KavaStation event will feature a kavatail with a fruit mixer and seltzer, and a kavatail made with a plant based milk and complementary flavorings. Preparation is fairly traditional: ground kava root is placed in a strainer bag, and hand-kneaded in water to create the kava drink. (The earliest known traditional way to prepare kava was to chew it, then spit it out and serve it. A chemical in saliva made the typically bitter beverage taste sweet. Despite the alleged taste improvement, I promise to never do that!) KavaStation uses only "Noble" kava cultivars that are responsibly resourced and sold by reputable wholesalers.
Our Team
KavaStation is owned and operated by Paula Soto, assisted by a growing team of kavatenders. Paula's background is in social work, which inspired her to develop KavaStation, with the aim to fill a void by fostering healthy community spaces where creativity, calm, and connection can flourish.
KavaStation events welcome people from all walks of life, all philosophical and belief systems. We believe that we have more in common as humans than we have differences. We want KavaStation events to be places where we can find our common ground and plant seeds of personal growth in it. While differing viewpoints are welcome and encouraged, we hold firm to the ethic of being a safe and affirming space for BIPOC and LGBTQ communities.