The kava root has been enjoyed in Southeast Asia for centuries as a medicinal and ceremonial herb. In the past few years, it has also gained a significant following across the United States and the rest of the western world. When brewed into a tea and used as a potent stress reliever, it is a popular choice for those seeking a new way to unwind, along with anyone looking to stave off the symptoms of muscle tension, anxiety, and even insomnia. With kava bars opening across the country, the kava craze shows no signs of slowing down. Here are three reasons why Americans are going crazy for kava.
It Provides an Alternative to Alcohol
For many centuries, alcohol has been the go-to choice for a social beverage in much of the western world. It’s also a popular option when you’re looking to leave a bad day behind you or trying to put something out of your mind. No matter how it’s used, alcohol serves different purposes for different people. That said, it does come with some undesirable effects. If consumed in excess, alcohol can leave you feeling sluggish the following morning and sometimes for the entire next day. And even if consumption is limited, drinking alcohol can result in a loss of mental clarity. Some people would rather keep that clarity intact.
It’s in these kinds of scenarios where kava finds some new fans. Many people who enjoy alcohol are excited to learn that kava can actually help them combat (rather than dull) feelings of anxiety and emotional stress. Best of all, it can leave you with a relaxed, hangover-free feeling afterward. At the same time, this sharpness in mental acuity can change the way you might feel in larger group settings, transforming potentially awkward scenarios into spaces that feel safer, calmer, and more conversation-friendly.
It Offers a Socially Friendly Vibe
This calmer, friendlier vibe is one of the biggest appeals that draw people to kava. Similar to other natural herbal products, like the kratom plant, you can experience a relaxed type of energy that can help socializing feel easy. This is a result of the kavalactones, the active ingredients in kava, passing through your bloodstream. This type of effect is great for extroverts who naturally find it easy to talk to strangers, but it can be especially beneficial for introverts, helping them feel more comfortable in new situations and speaking with new people. It is often said that kava shared between strangers is kava shared between friends. The atmosphere of communal enjoyment encourages new friendships to develop effortlessly.
This truth is supported by the fact that kava was once a valuable commodity, brought by ocean explorers to newly explored islands in the hopes that any new tribes or people they encountered would feel comforted rather than alarmed by their presence. It’s a practice that continues to this day. Members of Pacific Island communities often solve disputes with dialogue, meditation, and a calming cup of kava. For those eager to learn about how different cultures communicate with each other, it’s a humbling and eye-opening lesson.
It’s a Calorie-Conscious Choice
Perhaps, you’re a health-conscious person, but you’re still looking for a pro-social way to unwind after a long weekend at work. Well, kava is the perfect option. How health-conscious are the typical drinks you enjoy? Maybe that’s something you forget to consider as the night continues. The truth is, a single beer, a shot of vodka, and a standard cocktail can contain more calories than you might think. This can effectively put a damper on your desire to go out and enjoy a drink with friends or family.
On the other hand, a serving of kava can contain relatively fewer calories, ranging from 0 to 30 calories per tablespoon. Kratom is another natural herbal product for a similar calorie-friendly option. When kava is prepared naturally, without flavoring or added sugar, it can easily maintain its low-calorie range. With that said, kava can be prepared in many delicious, equally calorie-friendly ways. Looking for something earthy but sweet? Mix some kava powder, coconut milk, unsweetened cocoa powder, and sugar for a fresh take on the classic chocolate milkshake. Craving something fruity? Grab yourself a kava-inspired fruit drink or smoothie. With so many calorie-conscious recipes available, you’re bound to find a taste or combination that fits into your weekly routine.
Original Source: https://bit.ly/3DwFyya
