Kava confirmed as Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS)

Big news for kava enthusiasts! The team at  Fiji Vanua Kava is super proud to announce that the Hawaii Department of Health (DOH) has officially designated traditionally prepared kava as Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS). This is a breakthrough for kava consumption in the US and a significant step towards wider recognition of its safe and historical use.

For centuries, kava has been a cornerstone of Pacific Islander culture, revered for its relaxing and mood-lifting properties. Traditionally prepared kava involves pounding the root of the piper methysticum plant and extracting its essence with water. This is accomplished by placing medium grind powder into a cheesecloth, submerging the cloth in a bowl of water, and kneading it for about 5 to 10 minutes. This method has been used safely for generations, and the DOH’s GRAS designation finally acknowledges this long history.

Why is this such a big deal?

Previously, there was some confusion surrounding kava’s safety, particularly regarding certain commercially available extracts. The high concentration of kavalactones (the active ingredient in kava) in these extracts can potentially pose health risks, especially to the liver. The DOH’s GRAS designation clarifies this distinction. Their decision specifically applies to traditionally prepared kava beverages, highlighting the importance of proper preparation methods.

This is a victory not just for kava lovers, but for cultural preservation as well. The Hawaiian DOH, in collaboration with the University of Hawaii (UH) College of Tropical Agriculture and Human Resources (CTAHR), recognized the overwhelming historical precedent for kava as a safe and traditional beverage. This recognition goes a long way in protecting and promoting this cherished cultural practice.

Significance of the GRAS Designation

This decision by the Hawaii DOH is a game-changer for several reasons:

• Safety First: The GRAS designation provides much-needed clarity for consumers. It assures them that traditionally prepared kava can be enjoyed with confidence, especially when sourced from reputable vendors like us as Fiji Vanua kava always prioritizes quality and safety.
• Dispelling Myths: The HDOH’s decision debunks the myth that kava inherently damages the liver. This clears the air for responsible kava consumption and encourages further research into its potential health benefits.
• Cultural Recognition: This decision honors the rich cultural heritage of kava in Hawaii and the Pacific Islands. Kava consumption has been a central part of social gatherings and ceremonies for centuries, and this recognition validates its cultural significance.
• World Health Organization (WHO) Backs Kava: The HDOH’s decision aligns with the WHO’s research findings. The WHO also debunked the myth of kava causing liver damage, highlighting its safe consumption when prepared traditionally. Check out our liver study that dives deeper into the science behind kava and its effects on the liver.
• Industry Growth: The GRAS designation has the potential to significantly boost the kava industry. With safety concerns somewhat alleviated, the market for kava products could see a substantial increase.

Deeper Dive: Separating Fact from Fiction on Kava and Liver Health

We understand that some lingering concerns about kava and liver health might still exist. For a deeper dive into the safety profile of traditionally prepared kava, we encourage you to explore our research on kava and liver health. This study is a testament to our dedication to providing not only exceptional kava products but also contributing valuable scientific data to the field.

The Future of Kava

The Hawaii DOH’s GRAS designation is a significant step forward for kava. It opens doors for further research and wider acceptance of this time-tested botanical. As more people discover the potential benefits of kava for relaxation and stress relief, the future looks bright for this unique and versatile plant.

Join the Kava Conversation!

The GRAS designation is a significant step forward for Kava, but there’s still more work to be done. We invite you to join the conversation and help spread awareness about the safe and responsible use of this remarkable herb. Share your kava experiences and let’s build a community of informed kava enthusiasts!

Remember: Always choose reputable vendors who offer traditionally prepared kava beverages. Here at Fiji Vanua Kava, we are thrilled with the Hawaii DOH’s decision. We have always been committed to providing customers with the highest quality, traditionally prepared kava products. We source our all heavy, heady, and balanced kava varieties directly from reputable growers who prioritize sustainable practices and ensure proper preparation methods.

Looking for the perfect kava to unwind with? Explore our diverse selection of kava root varieties, including Loloma waka, known for its balanced efefcts and a go-to drink for any time of day, offering a gentle lift and calming effect. Kava Vanuatu is another special strong kava, a great choice for evening drinking, it delivers a strong sedating feeling and calming experience, making it a great all-around kava. Good News!! Skip the mess, sip the stress away! Our instant gold and old roots kava are super convenient, ready-to-mix powders made from pure, dehydrated kava green juice. Enjoy pure relaxation with no straining required! No matter your preference, we have the perfect variety of kava to enhance your experience.