Kava (Piper methysticum) is a member of the pepper family and has been cultivated by South Pacific islanders for centuries and used as a social and ceremonial drink. Kava is used primarily at social gatherings to heighten mood and amiability, and also to relax without disrupting mental clarity. A Cochrane Collaboration systematic review of its evidence concluded that it was effective at treating short-term social anxiety. It has great religious significance, being used to connect with the ancestors and the gods to obtain inspiration or esoteric knowledge. And, while some Christian sects in the Western Pacific have demonized the drink as a vice, others have encouraged it as a replacement to alcohol.

The active constituents of Kava Kava are a group of compounds known as kavalactones. Kavalactones are destroyed at 140 degrees F., which is much cooler than most teas.