Attend Kava Ceremony in the Pacific Islands

Add to My List Check Off

There are many stories about the creation of a kava ceremony, but one thing is clear the ceremony is a way to show respect to community leaders. Traditionally a kava ceremony is performed before religious rites and other significant events. Today, it’s fairly easy to find a kava ceremony when visiting the pacific islands in particular Hawaii and Fiji. Kava comes from the dried roots of Piper methysticum also known as pepper tree. It can be used for medicinal purposes as it produces a relaxing effect on the body and helps clear the mind. Traditionally, the root was cut into tiny pieces and chewed by a young village girl and then put into water to make the drink. That particular preparation isn’t practiced much these days. Instead, the kava is grated, steeped into water, strained, and then poured into cups (typically made of coconut shells). There’s lots of clapping and the chief must drink first usually to chants of the word “maca,” which means “empty.” Then the drink is passed to the next high-ranking person at the ceremony. When attending a kava ceremony it is customary to drink the kava, but if you’re uncomfortable drinking it just tell the person arranging the ceremony before hand and it shouldn’t be a problem. Whether you choose to drink or not, you’ll have a good time clapping for everyone else.

Write a Review

No Ratings Yet

Flag as inappropriate ›