Best kava chasers

While there are significant differences between kava cultivars and products when it comes to taste and aroma, nobody many people find kava in general to have a very bitter or even unpleasant flavour. To be sure, certain cultivars (e.g. Vanuatu’s Palarasul, Kelai, Bir Kar; Tongan White Kava, Fiji’s Qila Leka and Hawaiian Mahakea) can have a complex, interesting and almost enjoyable tasting profile, especially when they are properly cleaned and peeled (such as the kavas we offer through our shop). Still, few kava connoiseurs drink kava for its taste alone. This is why many drinkers try to find ways to counter kava’s bitterness without dimishing its effects and, at the same time, without necessarily depriving themselves of the ability to experience the unique tasting profiles of specific cultivars and blends.

Some might try to add flavourings to their traditionally prepapred kava. Others may try prepare it with milk (or coconut milk) instead of water. Some people like mixing micronized or instant kavas with their favourite juice. This can be good solution for the beginners and those who want to drink only small amounts of kava. However, more experienced drinkers usually avoid mixing their kava (traditional or instant) with other drinks or foods. Many feel that consuming a lot of sweet liquid masking the kava taste in itself can get a bit unpleasant. Others argue that mixing kava with other foods takes away an important part of the experience, especially when you happen to have access to meticulously processed kava. Finally, some claim that mixing kava with other foods or drinks diminishes its effects.

As an alternative solution, experienced kava drinkers recommend using “chasers”. i.e. drinks or snacks that can be consumed between quick servings of kava. As you probably know, kava should never be slowly sipped. The way to drink it is to consume half cup sized servings quickly in two-three quick gulps. Once you drink a rich serving of kava, you can try to experience the complexity of the flavour for a few seconds, but 10 seconds later is when you might want to grab your chaser.

Apples (especially New Zealand apples! :) make an excellent kava chaser

In the urban kava bars of Vanuatu one can buy fresh fruit slices, which work great as chasers (and are quite healthy!). Pineapples, mangoes and papaya seem particularly effective in the tropical setting. In New Zealand, apples and pears do the trick. Another solution is to drink real fruit juice. The advantage of taking a bite of apple over drinking juices is that it appears to be stimulating digestion and absorption of kava’s active ingredients, so you don’t just get to cleanse your palate, but also improve your overall experience.

Those who want to combine good flavours with kava-potentiating effects, may want to consider using strong herbal tea (our preferences: peppermint, ginger or kawakawa - either separetly or even as a mixture ) in between their shells. It can be quite delicious AND also can help to potentiate some of kava's effects (the heat makes it easier for the kavalactones to go through the stomach membrene). What is more, many herbal teas can ease any stomach discomfort you may experience after drinking kava. 

We generally do not recommend using sparking beverages as they can prove to be a bit too "heavy" on the stomach. It's best to go for natural (and healthy) products. 

Whatever option you choose, always remember that kava should be enjoyed on an empty(ish) stomach (3-4 hours after a meal).

Bula!