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About Kavayn

Unity brought us here and together we grow.

About Us

Kavayn was chosen as our name as we believe kavain is the main and most desired kavalactone in kava that brings about happiness, sociability and tranquility.

We’re a story about different people coming together to form a perfect well balanced team each bringing something unique to the table.

Our vision is to bring kava to an international mainstream market and become the leader in a global movement towards togetherness, where harmony and peace are the norm, sustainability is a standard, and communities thrive together. 

Our mission is to provide premium quality, eco-friendly products that promote health and well-being and foster communities of conscious consumerism.

Meet the team behind Kavayn and on the front lines of change.

Bossman

Bradley Tabone, Co-FOUNDER & CEO

A seasoned entrepreneur and operations specialist for botanical extraction, AI Venture Funds, Healthcare, Tech Enabled Logistics and even micro financing, Brad has led several companies and investments all over the world. Brad brought the idea of Kavayn to life in order to support a healthier world financially, physically, and mentally. His big brain has created and supported several successful business ventures and yet still holds the record for how many times he almost died while scuba diving. (A story for another time - maybe in a traditional kava circle?)

Bula Master

Duncan McCrae, Co-Founder

Duncan MacRae is a leading figure in botanicals industry, and has played a pivotal role in shaping the industry, focusing on high-quality extraction techniques and product innovation. With a deep understanding of herbal science and extraction technologies, Duncan continues to influence the industry by promoting responsible use of botanicals and expanding its reach in global markets. Oh, and yes, he has a lizard named after him...Varanus macraei, more commonly known as the Blue Tree Monitor, having discovered it Indonesia in 2000. (Does it get cooler than that?)

Man in the thick of things

Patrick C. Rasuga, Operations

Part science part soil, all about farming. Experienced farm advisor who turns good practices into great harvests through down-to-earth advice. He makes the magic happen behind the scenes-coordinating our sourcing, production, and delivery. His mission? To proudly share this deeply rooted Pacific tradition so you can focus on relaxing!

Agri-Boss & Kava Whisperer

Sanfred Smith, Fiji Director

Sanfred Smith is an experienced agribusiness professional with expertise in project management, financial oversight, supply chain optimization, and value-chain development. His work spans primary production, value-added processing, market linkages, and compliance with international trade standards.

"The Glue"

Jason Kneebone, Chief of Staff

Kneebone is the man behind the man, who makes sure the man and the team keep our sh!t together. Oh and he is a transformation specialist with deep expertise in superannuation and investment management, complemented by a strong background in program delivery. In short, he's a pretty big deal.

Formulation Whiz

Surya Pavan, R&D

Pocket protectors and lab glass thingies abound with Pavan, as we lovingly call him. He can work magic with the Piper plant. And pretty much any other botanical he gets his hands on.

Marketing Maestro & Official Taste Tester

V. Chere Lucett, CMO

Known for making waves and getting herself into hairy situations, she's got a knack for marketing, product development, and people. All of which have gone into Kavayn, forcing the Bossman to shell out more cash. Nothing hits the shelves without her stamp of approval. And she's pretty picky on when and how she wields the stamper.

The Kavayn Promise

UNITY

Unity is the foundation of a healthier world. The power of togetherness, where we can live, work, play, and grow together. A world where we can pause, reduce our daily stresses, and find peace within ourselves and our communities.

SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY

Whether through ethical sourcing, regenerative farming practices, supporting local initiatives, or providing uplifting opportunities to indigenous communities, we ensure our actions reflect our dedication to making a positive impact.

SUSTAINABILITY

We are passionate about reducing our environmental footprint and continually seeking innovative ways to be more eco-conscious. From our premium quality products to our packaging, every choice is made with the earth in mind.

AUTHENTICITY

Our commitment to authenticity means we cultivate, source and invest in our kava plants directly from the communities and farmers who have grown and practiced these traditions for generations, ensuring that every product is pure and potent.

Real Noble Kava - Real Difference

Our products are backed by our 100% ingredient guarantee and have been third-party tested for purity and authenticity. We only use the premium parts of the kava plant.

Centuries of Calm, Rooted By The Kava Plant

Centuries of islanders have been enjoying the effects of kava to bring people together, settle disputes, celebrate life's milestones, and enjoy community. Find out why kava is termed "the root of happiness".

What is kava?

What is kava?

Kava is a traditional beverage made from the root of the Piper methysticum plant, which is native to the South Pacific. Traditionally, it has been used in various Pacific Island cultures for centuries, often in social and ceremonial contexts. The drink is known for its calming effects, which can promote relaxation and reduce anxiety, making it popular among those seeking a natural way to unwind.
How do you make kava?

There are a few extraction techniques to make kava.

Traditional methods include:

The most common and traditional method of kava extraction involves water as the primary solvent, using lukewarm water to maximize the extraction of kavalactones. The mixture is kneaded vigorously.

A basic preparation typically requires:

  • 8-12 oz of hot tap water (100-120 degrees) per serving
  • A strainer bag or cloth
  • Kava root powder
  • A bowl for mixing

Modern Extractions are:

Acetone Extraction Method

Acetone extraction uses acetone to dissolve compounds, which are then separated by filtering and evaporation. This method is simple but requires careful handling due to acetone's flammability and potential for residue.

CO2 Extraction Method

Supercritical CO2 extraction uses pressurized CO2 to dissolve compounds, which are collected when the CO2 returns to a gaseous state. This environmentally-friendly process leaves no toxic residue and allows for specific compound extraction, making it ideal for producing high-purity extracts. (This is the process Kavayn uses for our extraction process).
What are the effects of kava?

The effects of kava depend on various factors like production methods, potency, and amount of different kavalactones. In general, kava provides feelings of calm and relaxation and mood enhancement. We have formulated our kava elixirs to include higher amounts of kavain, a kavalactone known for its calming effects.

Kavalactones help provide the following effects:

  • Relaxation and reduced anxiety
  • Sedative properties that help improve sleep quality
  • Compounds like methysticin contribute to the muscle relaxant effects of kava
I'm new to kava. How much should I take to start?

Hi newbie! Welcome to the happy root fam. Kava has a reverse tolerance effect which means, the more you have, the less you need to feel the effects. So we tell new users to enjoy a full drink pack or full gummy (or even two) to start because you won't feel the effects as fast or as strongly as a regular kava user. Once you consume kava-extracts for a while, you won't need as much to gain that buzzy glow!
Does kava have any health benefits?

Kavalactones have been studied to better understand the following potential benefits:
Is kava legal?

Yes. Kava is listed as a dietary supplement and legal in all 50 United States. However, we recommend consumption of Kavayn products for those over the age of 18.

Where do you source your kava?

Kavayn kava is sourced from several regions such as Fiji, Venuatu, and smaller islands around Fiji.
What are kavalactones?

Kavalactones are a class of bioactive compounds found primarily in the roots of the kava plant (Piper methysticum). These compounds are responsible for the calming and relaxing effects associated with kava consumption. There are 18 different kavalactones, but six of them are particularly significant, accounting for over 90% of the active ingredients in most kava varieties:

  1. Kavain
  2. Dihydrokawain
  3. Methysticin
  4. Dihydromethysticin
  5. Yangonin
  6. Desmethoxyyangonin

These compounds are the focus of most studies on kava due to their pharmacological activity and their role in calming effects.
How do I know if your kava is pure?

Glad you asked...we use third-party testing to ensure authenticity. You can view our latest COA here:

How to consume kava or Kava plant extracts

Traditional Kava

Kava has been used by Pacific Islanders for over 3000 years. Traditional kava beverages are generally prepared by crushing, chewing, or grinding the kava root and stump, then soaking it in cold water. This method is commonly used in ceremonies and cultural practices.

Kavayn Elixir Snap Packs (Drinks)

SNAP! Place the flat side down, position the snap pack between your thumb and middle finger. Place your index finger on the top center of the snap pack.

SQUEEZE!

Position the snap pack over your 8oz-12oz beverage of choice, and gently bring your thumb and middle finger together, pressing down with your index finger, folding the snap pack in half.

MIX!

Once you have squeezed the elixir into your beverage of choice, stir or shake the beverage to mix the elixir in. Once you have mixed your drink, sit back, sip and enjoy!
Kavayn Gummies

First timers - Take one gummy, Chew thoroughly. Wait 10 minutes to determine if you want to take another. Kava extracts have a reverse-tolerance effect, so it might take a bit more in the beginning to feel the effects.

Kava drink lovers - Grab a gummy and enjoy. Take two if you want to keep the bliss going. We recommend no more than 4 a day.

Safety Guidelines

Safety considerations

As with any dietary supplement, users should be careful when consuming kava.

While kava is considered a safe supplement in the U.S., please be aware that there have been reports of hepatotoxicity, including liver failure, hepatitis, and cirrhosis associated with kava use. The risk increases with prolonged use, especially when consumed consistently for more than a month or in high doses (1,000 mg/day or more).

In addition, Kava can interact with other substances, prolonging the effects of anesthesia and potentially causing adverse reactions when combined with alcohol.
Potential side effects

Kava users may encounter side effects such as:

  • Upset stomach
  • Headache
  • Dizziness
  • Dry mouth

Be conscious of your dosage and engage in kava use responsibly.

How does kava compare to other natural alternatives?

How does Kava compare to using THC/CBD or Alcohol?

Kava, THC/CBD, and alcohol each offer distinct experiences and effects. Kava gives you clear-headed relaxation without the mental fog, THC/CBD offers everything from a buzz to therapeutic benefits without the hangover, and alcohol brings that familiar social lubricant effect but carries higher health risks. Everyone's got their preference!

Read more in this article here.

The Circle

Chill Vibes: Kava, THC/CBD, and Alcohol - What's Your Relaxation Style?

Chill Vibes: Kava, THC/CBD, and Alcohol - What's Your Relaxation Style?
Looking for ways to unwind? Kava gives you clear-headed relaxation without the mental fog, THC/CBD offers everything from a buzz to therapeutic benefits without the hangover, and alcohol brings that familiar social lubricant effect but carries higher health risks. Everyone's got their preference!

Read more
The Big Scoop on Kavalactones

The Big Scoop on Kavalactones
Ever wondered what makes kava—that earthy-tasting drink from the South Pacific—so special? Meet kavalactones, the star players behind kava's calming effects. These natural compounds are found primarily in the roots of the kava plant (Piper methysticum), which has been used in traditional ceremonies and social gatherings across Pacific Island cultures for centuries.

Read more
kava roots

Kava: Your Natural Island Escape in a Cup
Ever wondered what people are sipping in those trendy kava bars popping up in your city? Kava comes from the roots of a plant (Piper methysticum) that Pacific Islanders have enjoyed for thousands of years. In Fiji, where it's called "yaqona," it's more than just a drink—it's an important part of social gatherings and ceremonies.

Read more