"Kava is a root-based drug with depressive effects that is native to several Pacific Island countries [1]. Kava is traditionally consumed in various cultural contexts, such as at funerals, weddings and graduation ceremonies, as well as for recreational purposes [2]. Despite its deep-seated history in Pacific Island culture, the prevalence of kava consumption in these countries, as well as in countries where kava has been introduced and is regularly imported, remains unclear [3].
"Kava continues to be a strong trading commodity among Pacific Island countries with long-standing cultural and social significance, the benefits of which are especially important to agrarian economies [4]. From 2015 to 2019, between 500 and 4000 t of kava were exported from Vanuatu, Fiji and Tonga [5, 6]."
Economidis G, Lynch M, Taylor S, et al. Global Perspectives on Kava: A Narrative Systematic Review of the Health Effects, Economic and Social Impacts and Policy Considerations. Drug Alcohol Rev. Published online June 25, 2025. doi:10.1111/dar.14080
