Kava Colorados Kava

Kava is a traditional beverage with a long history of use in the South Pacific for ceremonial, medicinal, and recreational purposes. The primary difference between traditional kava and kava extract lies in the preparation method, resulting in variations in potency, form, and consumption.
 
​Traditional Kava
​Traditional kava is a beverage made directly from the ground or crushed root of the kava plant (Piper methysticum). The process involves:
​Preparation: Dried, ground kava root powder is placed in a strainer bag (traditionally a cloth or woven material).
 
​Extraction: The bag is kneaded and steeped in a bowl of cold or lukewarm water for several minutes.
 
​Result: This process extracts the active compounds, called kavalactones, into the water, creating a murky, brown liquid. The solid plant matter is filtered out, resulting in a drink that is consumed as a "shell" (a small cup or bowl).
 
​Key Characteristics of Traditional Kava:
​Full Spectrum: The traditional method extracts a wide range of kavalactones and other plant compounds present in the kava root.
​Potency: The strength of the drink is determined by the amount of kava powder used and the preparation time. It's generally considered to be more potent and have a more holistic effect than many processed forms.
 
​Cultural Significance: Traditional kava preparation is often a social and ceremonial ritual, and the drink itself has a distinct earthy flavor and mouth-numbing sensation.
​Kava Extract
​Kava extract refers to a concentrated form of kava's active compounds. Unlike traditional kava, which is a water-based suspension, extracts are made using solvents to isolate the kavalactones.
​Preparation: Kava extracts are typically produced by using organic solvents like alcohol or acetone to pull the kavalactones from the kava root.
​Form: This process results in various forms, including:
​Tinctures/Liquid Extracts: Liquid concentrates that can be added to water or other beverages.
​Capsules/Tablets: Powdered or liquid extracts encapsulated for easy, measured doses.
​Instant Kava: A dehydrated kava beverage that only needs to be rehydrated with water. This is different from traditional kava because the liquid has already been extracted and then dried.
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​Key Characteristics of Kava Extract:
​Concentrated: Extracts are designed to provide a higher concentration of kavalactones in a smaller volume, making them more convenient and portable.
​Standardized Dosing: Extracts often allow for more precise and consistent dosing, which is common in supplements and herbal medicines.
​Different Effects: The type of solvent used and the specific kavalactones targeted can influence the final product's chemical composition and, therefore, its effects. For example, some extracts may be more euphoric, while others are more relaxing.
 
 
Per the FDA Kava Colorado has to state that liver concerns: historically, some cases of liver damage were linked to kava extracts, particularly those made with non-traditional solvents or from less-desirable parts of the plant (like stems and leaves). However, many countries have re-evaluated the safety and now allow kava on the market, with the understanding that the traditional water-based preparation is considered to have an "acceptably low level of health risk."