When exploring new supplements, it’s wise to think ahead and consider the way they might interact with other substances you consume. Mixing certain substances together can actually enhance the overall experience, while mixing other substances can be extremely dangerous.
So where exactly does that leave cannabis and kava?
The two natural substances have both hit the modern-day wellness market to varying degrees, each offering up alternative options for consumers to unwind and relax. But before you mix the two, keep reading to learn more about what exactly you can expect from kava and weed together.
Key Takeaways
- Kava and cannabis are both natural substances consumers use to help unwind and aid in their personal wellness routines.
- While some cannabis strains can be more heady and uplifting, kava is more sedating. Some consumers may find it helps to reduce stress and help with sleep, though more research is still needed.
- Mixing kava and weed generally enhances the effects of both substances, amping up the more sedating effects of kava with the euphoria of cannabis.
What is Kava?
Kava comes from the ground roots of the plant Piper methysticum, which is native to the South Pacific. It’s taken as a drink, supplement, or extract and has been used throughout history as a part of traditional ceremonies and cultural practices among the South Pacific Islands. The name “kava” comes from the Polynesian word “awa,” which means “bitter.”
What is Cannabis?
Cannabis, marijuana, weed, pot — the list goes on — all describe the plant containing THC, which offers consumers a psychoactive experience upon ingestion. Cannabis can be smoked, eaten, or vaporized and comes in a number of different forms. The plant has a number of medical applications, though many consumers use cannabis recreationally as a way to relax, socialize, enhance creativity, or simply to add a little something extra to their day.
What Does Drinking Kava Feel Like?
Kava is mostly known for its relaxing qualities, though it’s also said to elevate mood as a whole, and increase feelings of wellbeing and contentment. The effects of kava on the body feel similar to that of a typical indica cannabis strain, ushering in a mellow feeling of bodily sedation soon after ingesting, without the cognitive effects that come with cannabis and THC.
The duration of effects depends on the variety and strength of the kava, though users can expect to feel the full extent of effects for one to three hours. Many users also report that some residual relaxing effects can last even longer.
Some studies have suggested that kava could help to reduce anxiety, and other research has suggested that it could carry potential as a sleep aid. Research on kava is still limited however, so the science as a whole is still catching up.
How Does Smoking Weed Affect Kava?
Generally, smoking weed while drinking kava will intensify the effects of both substances. Similar to mixing in CBD with a high-THC blend, adding kava to the mix often removes some of the anxiety that may come with cannabis. Conversely, adding weed into the mix can also increase the more sedating, mellowing effects that come with kava.
What Happens When You Mix Kava and Weed?
Both kava and cannabis work synergistically to activate the CB1R receptors of the endocannabinoid system, meaning that mixing kava and cannabis is similar to the entourage effect. This theory indicates that the more cannabis compounds a person consumes together (including terpenes, flavonoids, cannabinoids, and more), the more pronounced the effects of all those compounds will ultimately be.
Overall, mixing kava and cannabis in moderation appears to be generally safe, though some of the effects will be more pronounced for infrequent cannabis users especially. For those brand new to kava, it may be most beneficial to try the substance on its own first before mixing in weed. As you should when trying any new substance, it’s best to start small and work your way up. Be sure to stick to the recommended kava doses as well! It is generally safe in moderation, though hefty doses or using kava too often can cause health issues.
It’s also recommended to avoid alcohol when using kava, as the two substances together can lead to liver damage.
Final Thoughts
Kava on its own is a great alternative to cannabis, though the two also work together extremely well for a number of consumers. As folks often use cannabis and kava to unwind and relax, it makes sense that the two substances make a good pair. Be sure to start slow, stick to recommended doses, and know your own limits when it comes to mixing kava and cannabis.
Otherwise, enjoy the mellowing benefits each (or both) have to offer!
Disclaimer: None of what is published on evn-cbd.com is intended to be professional medical advice. Consult your health practitioner regarding any medical treatment or diagnosis.
References
Shinomiya, K., Inoue, T., Utsu, Y., Tokunaga, S., Masuoka, T., Ohmori, A., & Kamei, C. (2005). Effects of kava-kava extract on the sleep–wake cycle in sleep-disturbed rats. Psychopharmacology, 180(3), 564–569. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00213-005-2196-4
Taibi, D. M., & Landis, C. A. (2009, January 1). Chapter 4 - Valerian and Other CAM Botanicals in Treatment of Sleep Disturbances (R. R. Watson, Ed.). ScienceDirect; Academic Press. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/B9780123742285000044
White, J. D. (2014, January 1). 33 - Complementary and Alternative Medicine (J. E. Niederhuber, J. O. Armitage, J. H. Doroshow, M. B. Kastan, & J. E. Tepper, Eds.). ScienceDirect; Churchill Livingstone. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/B9781455728657000333
