BOISE, IDAHO (CBS2) — A South Pacific Island plant is changing the game when it comes to a night out with drinks.
Kava, also known as Piper methysticum, has widely grown in popularity for its effects, and in recent years, kava bars have been popping up around the U.S.
They're now making their way to Idaho with the first kava bar in the Treasure Valley, Karuna Kava.
"We specialize in different varieties of noble kava from the South Pacific Islands," said Ben McQueen, owner of Karuna Kava.
Fans of the intoxicating beverage say it produces a state of calm relaxation and can reduce anxiety.
"It's almost like something washing over you and just letting your emotions and letting that tense part of life just go away, and that's pretty awesome," said Bret Riggle, a customer of Karunas.
The kava root was known for its use in medicine and rituals, but it's now being used here as an alternative to alcohol.
"Because you feel more relaxed both physically and less worried mentally, it's very socially enjoyable because you don't have the same social anxieties that you may normally have," McQueen said.
The drink itself is relatively easy to make.
Kava is commonly prepared by grinding up the root to make a powder, putting it through a filter, and kneading out the kava in a bowl full of water.
While it has not been proven to impair cognitive function, the FDA warns it could cause liver toxicity.
But for those who enjoy the drink, they like having something to sip on without regret.
"It takes away that risk factor and also just provides a healthier path for people that are sick of drinking," McQueen said.
Although kava is not regulated by any state or federal laws, it's recommended that only people 18 years or older drink kava.
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