Dec 1, 2025 · Learn the core difference between kava (the plant and beverage) and kavalactones (the active compounds). Understand how this distinction affects potency and safety.

Kava is made from the roots of the Piper methysticum plant, which contain active compounds called kavalactones. These compounds are responsible for kava's calming effects.

"Kavalactone content and chemotype of kava beverages prepared from roots and rhizomes of Isa and Mahakea varieties and extraction efficiency of kavalactones using different solvents".

A kava extract refers to the concentrated form of kavalactones – the active compounds derived from the kava root. Unlike traditional kava, which requires a careful process of crushing, …

Before diving into the types of kava root, it’s important to understand what kava is and why it is so valued. The root of the Piper methysticum plant contains active compounds called kavalactones.

Kava extract is a more concentrated form of kava made by isolating kavalactones from the root using solvents or CO₂ extraction while removing much of the plant fiber and inactive …

Apr 9, 2025 · Kavalactones are bioactive compounds found in the lateral root systems of the kava plant, a shrub native to the South Pacific Islands. Kava contains approximately 18 distinct …

Kavalactones - an overview | ScienceDirect Topics

Aug 6, 2025 · The concentration and specific blend of these kavalactones vary between different kava strains and even different parts of the kava root, directly influencing the overall experience.

Oct 15, 2024 · Kavalactones are the active kava ingredients responsible for the psychoactive effects of Kava (Piper methysticum). Researchers have found around eighteen kavalactones. …