Kava Types
The three distinct types of powdered kava products.
Instant – Instant kava is dried kava juice mixed with water. The process used to make instant kava differs from producer to producer, and it is often kept secret. Some common methods include the use of vacuum desiccators, freeze driers, and spray driers. Instant kava is also the most expensive form of powdered kava, with prices ranging from $150 to over $400 per pound and an average cost of $209 per pound in the US.
Pros: Ease of use. Simply mix with water and drink, no need for straining or kneading. You may also make the brew as weak or as strong as you like with greater accuracy.
Cons: Cost. Easily the most expensive form of powdered kava sold.
Micronized (Also seen sold as “Micronized Instant”) – Micronized instant kava is made by sifting traditional kava through progressively finer meshed screens, resulting in a fine powder that is kept while the larger pieces are set aside or discarded. Essentially, it's the dust that falls from your traditional grind kava when you place it into your strainer bag. However, kavalactones can remain bound in the hard fibers of the sifted kava leftovers, also known as “makas”. Micronized instants typically cost between $70/lb and $104/lb, with an average price of $95 per pound (in the US).
Pros: Easy to use. Similar to instant kava, this product is mixed with water and consumed. Cheaper than instant kava. More consistent than traditional grind.
Cons: Can bring on dermopathy more quickly and can cause digestive upset. More expensive than traditional grind as a rule.
Traditional Grind (Medium Grind) – The most common form of kava seen on the market. This is Kava that has been hand pounded, milled, or pulverized to reduce particle size. Particle sizes usually range from .5 mm to 5 mm. Prices range from $37 per pound to $100 per pound, with an average cost of $62 per pound overall (In the US).
Pros: Cheaper than the other two forms of kava. Opens your possibilities to a wider array of different kava cultivars not seen as micronized or instant powders. Cleaner experience than micronized. On par with instant in terms of effects, but much cheaper.
Cons: The preparation phase is more difficult. Requires strainer. This kava requires you to agitate, knead, and strain the powder. The strength of the resulting brew can vary because of inconsistencies in preparation.