Bir Kar Single Cultivar Traditional Kava
A prized and rare cultivar of balanced-heady character.
Named after the red(ish) colour appearance of stems (the word “kar” means red), this cultivar came into existence in the heartland of the lush island of Espiritu Santo (Vanuatu). This is also the only place in the world where it is currently cultivated and greatly appreciated by the local communities.
Bir Kar has a complex character with a solid balanced base fired up by a good dose of refreshing and pleasant heady bliss. It has been described by researchers, Dr Vincent Lebot and Patricia Simeoni, as a fine example of a high quality, “fast acting and strong” cultivar.
Curiously, some experienced kava connoiseurs like to compare its effects to those of the praised Hawaiian cultivar Papa Kea (though perhaps it might be more appropriate to compare Papa Kea to the much older Bir Kar) as both cultivars offer an enjoyable body-oriented “muscle melting effect” mixed with warm and pleasant waves of kava euphoria.
Island of Origin: Espiritu Santo, Vanuatu
Average Laterals to Stump Ratio: Natural (30-70)
Typical Chemotype: 423561
Processing: Fully washed and peeled. Dried in a temperature-controlled dehydrator.
Effects: Provides more of a cerebral/heady feeling, has a euphoric effect, rapid onset with short life.
Flavour profile: Roasted peanuts, black pepper, chocolate.
How to Use it?
This noble traditional kava powder requires straining (click here to purchase a high-quality strainer). We recommend using apx 30-35g per session, but note that each person requires a different amount of kava to feel and enjoy its effects. Detailed preparation instructions can be found here.
Choose options
Organically Grown Pure & Noble Kava
100% pure noble kava from pristine volcanic soils. Our farmers cultivate specific single cultivars in regions best suited for each variety. Each plant matures for 3-5+ years using traditional organic farming methods passed down through generations.
Always Processed from Fresh
Each batch is exclusively made from kava harvested to order - never old village-dried stock. All plants undergo rigorous assessment: cultivar verification, freshness inspection, contamination screening, and rejection of any unhealthy or damaged roots.
Cleaned and dried to fresh perfection
Our kava benefits from proprietary drying technology that locks in fresh root aroma, potency and character while ensuring food safety. Roots are meticulously washed, peeled, and dried in temperature-controlled dehydrators swiftly after harvest. Each dried batch is immediately vacuum-sealed or nitrogen-flushed to maintain peak freshness.
Every Batch Tested
Our kava undergoes comprehensive testing using UHPLC analysis (superior to standard HPLC), full microbiological screening, and chemotype verification in an advanced in-house laboratory. Every batch comes with complete certificates of analysis and exceeds FSANZ Standard 2.6.3 requirements.
Check out our Certificates of Analysis