What is kava?

Kava (also known as Piper methysticum) is a plant native to the South Pacific. Its root has been used for centuries by Pacific Island cultures—like those in Fiji, Tonga, and Vanuatu—to make a traditional ceremonial drink with calming effects.

The main active ingredients in kava are kavalactones.

It provides a sense of calm without impairing mental clarity, unlike alcohol or other sedatives.

How is kava used?

Traditionally:

  • The root is ground and soaked in cold water to make a muddy, earthy-tasting drink.

Modern forms include:

  • Capsules

  • Tinctures

  • Instant powders

  • Ready-to-drink beverages

In the South Pacific, drinking kava is part of:

  • Welcoming ceremonies

  • Conflict resolution

  • Social bonding

It’s deeply embedded in tradition and spiritual life

Is kava legal in the UK?

In the UK, the use of kava is prohibited in both medicinal and food products. This is where Kava Coalition UK comes in. The coalition is rapidly gathering support among supporters, policy makers and new enthusiasts and build a true people movement to raise awareness of kava and its legalisation in the UK.

Meet the Team

  • Douglas LaRose

    Executive Director

    https://www.kavacoalition.org/

  • Dr. Simon Geller

    Head of Kava Coalition UK

    Dr. Simon Gellar is a lecturer in Criminology at the University of Kent, where he has worked since 2021. His research seeks to understand novel psychoactive substances and their relative benefits and harms, alongside the lived experience of consumers, to inform more precise drug policy in the U.K. and internationally. Specific to kava, his research challenges the prohibition of its sale in the U.K. and untangles misconceptions about the plant from a cross-cultural perspective.

  • Mike Salem

    Fellow

    Mike Salem is a fellow at Kava Coalition UK and advises on its campaign operations.

    He has previously worked on campaigns on a range of issues in the UK, with particular focus on freedom to choose.

    He graduated from the London School of Economics with a degree in Philosophy, Politics, and Economics, and was actively involved in promoting free speech and debate during his time there. Mike also volunteers on the governing board of a local school and enjoys activities like tennis and playing the bassoon.

Contact us

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