As a tropical Pacific atoll, Fiji is isolated from mainland continents. A unique culture has developed around the island’s abundant natural resources.
One of those is the kava root.
In a traditional ceremony, Fijian elders make a drink out of the kava root and share it in among a group in a ritual ceremony.
One traveler describes it:
A linebacker-size man in a maroon skirt brings me a bowl. I’ve subsequently seen videos in which tourists are brought petite bowls of kava to sip; mine was a Clifford the Big Red Dog bowl. The kava concoction is brown and a bit gluey. Down she goes! It’s like licking a mud puddle. The men praise me in song, apparently for not throwing up.
This is not simply a nourishing drink, however. Its effects on the body, as well as on consciousness, are documented:
Soon, I can’t feel my tongue.
“I can’t feel my tongue.”
“Yes!” Roko says. “Kava will make your head go to sleep.”
“I can’t feel my lips, either,” I say. Roko nods. Another bowl is presented. I drink reluctantly.
After the third round, I notice that my feelings about kava, and about Fiji, and about the choices I have made in my life, begin to change. I am very relaxed and filled with contentment. I would like to take a nap and also ride a jet ski.
Kava contains uniquely relaxing compounds which have a calming effect on the body. Also, it’s completely natural, and scientific research is being conducted to determine kava’s positive effects on pain relief.
Raw kava root is available in health food and ethnic grocery stores.