Kava, or methistine pepper – a species of plant in the pepper family. It is native to the islands of Micronesia and Vanuatu. A plant with a long tradition of cultivation in the islands of the western Pacific. Traditionally used as a drink, dye or cosmetic ingredient. The way kava is used varies from place to place – on Vanuatu it is usually found in the form of a product made from water and powdered fresh root. In this form it can also be tested in the kavabars commonly found there. In other parts of the Pacific, a product based on the dried root, with a lower intensity, is also very popular. Currently in Poland, kava is only available for external use. Its status has changed in recent years, making it now available on the market.

According to a 2016 statement by the Chief Sanitary Inspectorate: “kava kava does not affect the central nervous system to the extent that it poses a threat to human health or life, as well as there is no evidence of causing social harm through the use of this substance.”