How to Prepare Kava

Making a kava beverage can be as simple or as creative as you like. For an easy, no-fuss option, try our Kava Kwik Instant Kava—just stir a spoonful into water, and you’re ready to enjoy! If you want to experience the full potential of kava root powder, we recommend the blender method. This preparation emulsifies the active kavalactone resins, making them easier to absorb for faster effects.

Blender Method (Our Favorite)

This method is quick, effective, and a great way to get the most out of your kava root powder. Here’s how to prepare enough for two servings:

  1. Add 3 tablespoons of kava root powder and 3 cups of water to your blender.
  2. Blend on high for one minute.
  3. Strain the liquid using one of our strainer bags (or a fine tea strainer) to remove the pulp and create a smoother drink.
  4. Sip slowly to allow the kavalactones to be absorbed through the mucous membranes in your mouth. This enhances the signature tingling sensation and delivers immediate effects.

Pro Tips for Better Kava

  • Chill it: Refrigerate your prepared kava for a few hours (or overnight). Chilling it mellows the flavor and makes it even more enjoyable.
  • Enhance it: Add a teaspoon of granular lecithin or vegetable oil to help emulsify the kavalactones, resulting in a smoother drink.
  • Flavor it your way: Sweeten with honey, maple syrup, or stevia. Blend with fresh ginger for a zesty kick, and strain out the pulp before drinking. One of our customers even swears by rose petals as a unique flavor addition!
  • Experiment: Adjust the water-to-kava ratio to suit your taste. Any leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for several days.

The Traditional “Dunking Cloth” Method

Used throughout the South Pacific, this method is perfect for ceremonial occasions or when preparing kava in a traditional setting:

  1. Place 1 cup of ground kava root in a cloth bag or wrap it securely in the center of a dish towel.
  2. Submerge the cloth in 1 quart of water in a bowl.
  3. Knead the cloth with your fingers and fists for 5–10 minutes until the liquid becomes opaque, resembling coffee with cream, and forms a foamy surface.
  4. Pour the liquid into serving cups. This amount serves 1–4 people.
  5. Repeat with the same kava for a lighter second rinse.

Customer Recipe Highlight: Coco-Kava

This rich, creamy drink tastes like chocolate milk and is a favorite among our customers:

  • 3 heaping tablespoons powdered kava root
  • 3 cups soy beverage (non-GMO!) or hemp seed milk
  • 1 heaping tablespoon cocoa or carob powder
  • 1 teaspoon granular lecithin
  • Optional: Sweeten further with honey or stevia extract

Preparation: Blend all ingredients on high for 2 minutes, strain, and enjoy!

Discover Your Perfect Kava Routine

There are countless ways to enjoy kava. Whether you prefer it cold, sweetened, or served in a ceremonial setting, the time of day, the amount consumed, and the environment all shape your experience. Explore different recipes, create your own rituals, and savor this versatile herb responsibly. Remember: never drive if you feel impaired after drinking kava.

Shop Kava Kauai

Ready to get started? Explore our Kava Shop for premium kava powders, kava kits, and instant kava. Or, learn more about this amazing plant on our What is Kava? page!