Family Name: Piperaceae
Botanical Name(s): Piper Methysticum
Popular Name(s): Kava Kava, Kava, Ava, Awa, Ava Pepper,
Intoxicating Pepper, Kawa, Kew, Tonga.
Parts Used: The rhizomes and roots are used.
Habitat: The plant has been cultivated in many parts of the
Pacific islands.
Description: It is a robust, erect evergreen shrub with stout
rhizomes, fleshy stems and round, heart-shaped leaves. Small flowers are
produced in spikes.
Uses: Kava Kava is also used externally to treat joint pains,
toothache and mouth ulcers. This herb has sedative, muscle relaxing,
anti-convulsive, tranquilizing and analgesic properties.
