Effects of Kava
Drinking a moderately potent kava drink produces effects within 20-30 minutes that last for about two hours and can last up to eight hours. The sensations brought about by the drink, in no particular order, are mild talkativeness, minor tongue and lip numbness, anxiolytic (calming) effects, euphoric behavior, clear thinking, relaxed muscles, and sense of well being. It is also observed that sleep is often restful after drinking Kava.
In Vanuatu, a very potent kava drink, is usually followed by a hot meal or tea. It is traditionally done this way because the psychoactive elements found in kava are absorbed into the bloodstream more quickly.
A potent drink also produces a faster onset of a deep dreamless sleep within 30 minutes. After the person wakes up, he does not experience any mental or physical after effects – quite unlike an alcohol-induced sleep.
Like alcohol, heavy consumption can have effects on the skin, ranging from heavy, scaly ulcers to light, red bumps. The effects recede if consumption stops or decreases. Excessive drinking of kava can also cause vomiting and nausea that usually wane within a day.
Kava is also used as medicine. It’s considered to cause relaxation and sleep. It also helps fight fatigue and calms nerves. Kava allegedly has the following benefits: relieve asthma, unclog urinary tracts, rheumatism, and helps lose weight. It is also good for headaches, cramps, syphilis, and gonorrhea. It is also believed that kava can soothe stomach pains, restore strength, and cures such ailments as boils.
