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Kava, Piper methysticum, contains psychoactive principles (kavalactones) which are concentrated in the stumps and roots. It is consumed as a cold-water infusion by a wide range of Pacific Ocean societies, serving as a means of religious inspiration. Kava has been classified as a narcotic and hypnotic. This book summarizes the literature and research on the botany, chemistry, ethnobotany, pharmacology, social usage, distribution and economic potential of kava. There are 7 chapters, namely: (1) a short introduction; (2) the botany, morphology, biogeography and origin of P. methysticum; (3) the chemistry of the active principles, with reference to their identification and the analysis of their physiological effects; (4) the cultivation, classification of cultivars, preparation for consumption and medicinal use of kava; (5) the cultural significance and social uses of kava; (6) the economic importance of P. methysticum …