Varieties & Cultivars

Brief & Concise

Es gibt über 100 verschiedene Kava-Sorten, unterteilt in edle (Noble) und nicht-edle (Tudei) Varietäten. Nur Noble Kava ist für den regelmäßigen Konsum geeignet.

Today, there are over 100 documented Kava varieties that differ significantly in origin, chemotype, and effect. In Vanuatu alone, the presumed homeland of the plant, more than 80 different cultivars are known. This diversity is the result of over 3,000 years of targeted selection by Pacific cultures.

The differences between the varieties are not just academic – they significantly determine the effect a Kava drink produces. A Kelai from Vanuatu acts completely differently than a Loa Waka from Fiji. Understanding these differences is key to a conscious and satisfying Kava experience.

Noble Kava vs. Tudei Kava

The most important distinction that every Kava consumer must know is between Noble Kava and Tudei Kava. This classification was introduced by the government of Vanuatu and is based on the chemotype of the respective variety.

Noble Kava

✅ Selected over centuries for pleasant effects
✅ Chemotype starts with 2 or 4, never with 5 or 6
✅ Onset of effect: 10-20 minutes
✅ Duration of effect: 3-6 hours, fades cleanly
✅ No "hangover" the next day
✅ Safe for regular use

Examples: Borogu, Melo Melo, Kelai, Palasa, Pouni Ono

Tudei Kava (Two-Day)

❌ Chemotype starts with 5 or 6 (DHM-dominant)
❌ Onset of effect: 30-90 minutes (delayed)
❌ Effect lasts extremely long (up to 2 days)
❌ Often causes nausea and lethargy
❌ "Hangover" feeling the next day
❌ Banned for export in Vanuatu

Examples: Isa, Palimanu, Wildkava

Important: When purchasing, ensure that the vendor specifies the chemotype and exact variety. This transparency is a good sign of authentic Noble Kava.

Learn more about Noble vs. Tudei

The Three Effect Types

Noble Kava varieties are classified into three categories based on their dominant effects. This classification is based on the chemotype – that is, the relative concentration of the six main kavalactones.

Heady

Head-focused effect: Euphoria, mental clarity, sociability. Ideal for daytime and social occasions.

Chemotype: Often starts with 4 (Kavain) or 2 (DHK)
Varieties: Kelai, Pouni Ono, Moi

→ Mood & Social

Balanced

Balanced effect: Relaxation without fatigue, mental calmness with physical well-being.

Chemotype: Balanced ratio of 4, 2, and 3
Varieties: Melo Melo, Bir Kar, Borogu

→ Anxiety Relief

Heavy

Body-focused effect: Deep muscle relaxation, sedation, ideal for the evening and for sleeping.

Chemotype: High DHK content (2) in positions 1-2
Varieties: Palasa, Palarasul, Loa Waka

→ Sleep & Relaxation

Chemotype Calculator: Analyze each chemotype

Overview of Growing Regions

Kava is now grown in various regions of the Pacific. Each region has developed its own varieties adapted to the local climate and cultural preferences.

Region	Number of Varieties	Local Name	Known Varieties	Characteristics
Vanuatu	80+	Kava, Malok	Borogu, Melo Melo, Kelai, Palasa	Greatest diversity, region of origin
Fiji	13	Yaqona, Malogu	Loa Waka, Qila Balavu	Often heavier, good processing
Tonga	7	Kava	Pouni Ono, Leka Hina	All Noble, rather heady
Hawaii	13	'Awa	Moi, Hiwa, Papa Kea	Very potent, expensive
Samoa	4	'Ava	Ava La'au, Ava Tonga	Traditional, ceremonial
Papua New Guinea	1 Noble	Kau	Kau kupwe	Only Noble variety

Varieties from Vanuatu Varieties from Fiji, Tonga & Hawaii

Which Variety is Right for Me?

Choosing the right Kava variety depends on your desired effect and the time of day. Here is a guide:

For social occasions

Choose a Heady Kava:

• Kelai (Vanuatu)
• Pouni Ono (Tonga)
• Moi (Hawaii)

For stress & anxiety

Choose a Balanced Kava:

• Melo Melo (Vanuatu)
• Bir Kar (Vanuatu)
• Borogu (Vanuatu)

For muscle relaxation

Choose a Heavy Kava:

• Palasa (Vanuatu)
• Palarasul (Vanuatu)
• Loa Waka (Fiji)

For sleeping

Choose a Heavy Kava:

• Palasa (Vanuatu)
• Loa Waka (Fiji)
• Ambae (Vanuatu)

Tip for Beginners: Start with a Balanced Kava like Melo Melo or Borogu. These varieties provide a pleasant, balanced experience without extreme effects in one direction.

In-Depth Articles

Explore the individual aspects of Kava varieties in our specialized subpages:

Noble Kava vs. Tudei

The most important distinction: Why Noble Kava is safe and Tudei should be avoided.

Varieties from Vanuatu

Over 80 varieties from the homeland of Kava: Borogu, Melo Melo, Kelai, Palasa, and more.

Varieties from Fiji, Tonga & Hawaii

Regional specialties: Loa Waka, Pouni Ono, 'Awa Moi and their unique characteristics.

Variety Profiles in Detail

Detailed profiles of the main varieties with chemotypes, effects, and recommendations.

Based on studies by

Dr. Vincent Lebot

ORCID

CIRAD, French Agricultural Research Centre for International Development

View profile →

With contributions from

Yadhu N. Singh Mark Merlin

This wiki is a curated resource that synthesizes research from peer-reviewed studies and expert researchers. It is not written by the researchers listed above, but rather based on their published work.

Scientific Sources

The information on this page is based on the following scientific studies and publications:

Kava: The Pacific Elixir - The Definitive Guide to Its Ethnobotany, History, and Chemistry

Vincent Lebot, Mark Merlin, Lamont Lindstrom (1997) – Yale University Press

View study

Measuring the Chemical and Cytotoxic Variability of Commercially Available Kava (Piper methysticum G. Forster)

Unknown (Unknown) – Unknown