We think it’s important for our customers to know exactly where we get our kava from and why.

Where does our amazing kava come from: Vanuatu

Australia Kava Shop has partnered with Vanuatu’s premier grower and exporter to bring only the best kava from Vanuatu into Australia. Our partner has been leading the way in developing kava nurseries to help boost kava stocks after Tropical Cyclone Pam decimated the country’s stocks in 2015. Not only do they replant seedlings at their own farm, but they also give seedlings to growers throughout the islands to help replenish stocks.

Clippings being prepped for propagating offshoots

Where does our amazing kava come from: Kava Clippings

After the offshoots are successfully propagated, the next step involves carefully transferring the stems into individual small seeding pots. These pots provide a nurturing environment for the young plants, allowing them to establish strong root systems and begin their growth journey. By placing each stem in its own pot, it ensures that the plants have ample space and resources to thrive, setting them up for healthy development in the days to come.

Once the seeding pots reach a stage where the roots have developed enough strength to withstand transportation and are ready to be replanted, the plants are carefully prepared for their journey. They are either transported to the designated islands where they will continue to grow and flourish, or they are strategically replanted on the property where they will contribute to the landscape and ecosystem. This process ensures that the young plants are given the best possible chance to thrive in their new environment, whether it be on the islands or within the property’s grounds.

After the seedlings have been carefully planted, they are segregated into different variety types to ensure proper categorization and management. Each individual plant is then meticulously tagged and subjected to weekly monitoring to track their progress and health. Our partners employ innovative and non-traditional planting techniques that are designed to promote larger and faster root growth in the kava plants. By dedicating sufficient time for each plant to reach its maximum maturity, they aim to optimize the kava lactone content, which is crucial for the potency and quality of the plant. This approach reflects our commitment to utilizing advanced methods to cultivate high-quality kava plants and ensure a successful cultivation process.

Where does our amazing kava come from: Plantation

The young kava plants are beginning to establish themselves, taking firm root in the nutrient-rich, pesticide-free, and heavy-metal-free soil of their new environment. As they grow, these vibrant kava plants are showing signs of thriving and flourishing in their healthy and sustainable surroundings.

Every week, thorough and meticulous checks are carried out to closely monitor the growth and overall health of the plants. This regular monitoring involves careful observation and assessment of various aspects such as leaf development, root system growth, and the overall vitality of the plants. These weekly checks are essential for ensuring that the plants are thriving and receiving the optimal care they need to flourish.

Mature Kava plants after 4 years.

After being meticulously tended to for a period ranging from 4 to 6 years, depending on the specific variety, the kava plants reach maturity and are finally ready for harvesting. The harvesting process involves carefully digging up the plants, with only the sections of the plant situated below the first node being utilized for their valuable properties. Subsequently, the roots are meticulously cleaned and segregated into stump roots, known as Lawena, and lateral roots, referred to as Waka. These roots are then finely chopped into small pieces before being transferred to specialized drying sheds for the dehydration process.

In adherence to best practices, our partners avoid direct sun exposure during the drying process, as sunlight exposure can diminish the potency of the kava lactones, which are the key active components responsible for the euphoric effects associated with the roots. Further ensuring the quality of the product, the roots undergo in-house testing to confirm the presence of noble variety through colorimetric analysis. Additionally, prior to export, the roots are subjected to testing by the Vanuatu Department of Agriculture to verify their authenticity.

Once the drying process is complete, the roots and chips are finely milled and meticulously packaged, preparing them for export to us. This comprehensive process from cultivation to packaging underscores our dedication to maintaining the highest standards of quality and potency in the kava products we offer.

Mature plants after being dug up.

Drying racks utilising air flow to maximize kavalactone content