A Kava Drink Recipe for the Sober Curious

It’s not an uncommon scenario. You’ve had a long day, and all you want to do is wind down. For many craving that end-of-the-day relaxation, having a drink is par for the course. But for those struggling with addiction, this ritual opens a challenging paradox. According to the 2022 National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH), a staggering 29.5 million people grapple with Alcohol Use Disorder, making the search for an alternative more than just a desire, but a necessity.

Interestingly enough, many individuals struggling with alcohol addiction are now turning to kava as a safer, non-addictive alternative. Kava is a beverage made from the ground roots of the native Pacific Islands kava plant. It has long been revered for its calming effects and ability to mimic the relaxation and sociability of alcohol without the morning-after regrets.

We discussed the appeal of kava with Jen Gullickson, a Vegas local and founder of Mama’s Mush Love, where she teaches others how to grow their own functional mushrooms at home. Jen is not just a local legend but a treasure trove of knowledge and passion. As the Secretary for Decriminalize Nature LV and the Las Vegas Psychedelic Society, she’s at the forefront of a movement that’s all about exploring safer, more conscious alternatives to conventional mind-altering substances.

Today, she’s sharing her special kava recipe, a concoction designed to mellow you out without dimming your sparkle. So, if you’ve been curious about dipping your toes into the world of kava as a chill alternative to your nightly glass of wine or beer, stick around. Jen’s got something brewin’ that just might change your evening ritual for good.

From Alcohol to Apothecary

Searching for alternatives to alcohol, Jen found her solace in the soothing arms of kava. “I struggled with alcohol addiction for many years, so for me, it was about finding something that enhanced my life without alcohol,” Jen shares candidly.

Unlike kratom, which she tried initially but found too stimulating for her liking, kava struck a different chord. “Kava is a nighttime drink. It brings a euphoric sensation and a good night’s sleep.”

Jen describes her own kava recipe, that she calls BeYouTeaful Dreams, as a “floral comfort” one can rest in, noting that it’s also versatile in how it can be served. “You can enjoy it chilled, where the flavors come together in unity, or hot, where each flavor is distinct,” she points out.

When asked who might benefit most from this drink, Jen’s enthusiasm shines through. “Anyone trying to explore different avenues of ‘having fun’ without alcohol,” she says. “We can party with plants, guys! Let’s go make an apothecary and create our own concoctions.” She emphasizes the joy and gratitude she feels in discovering alternatives to the norm of alcohol consumption, particularly in a city like Vegas, where drinks aren’t cheap. Jen sees plants not just as an alternative, but a revelation that offers “so many amazing flavors and health benefits you just don’t get from alcohol.” Her journey with kava isn’t just a personal victory. It’s an example of the ways that others who struggle with dependency can heal themselves through the use of plant medicines.

BeYouTeaful Dreams Kava Drink Recipe

You can find most items at a health food store.

Ingredients:

1 tbsp dried rose petal flower

1½ tbsp blue lotus flower

½ tbsp lemon balm (cut leaves)

1 tsp Kava Kava Root (powder)

4 cups hot water

2 tbsp honey (or agave nectar for a vegan drink)

½ lemon squeezed (optional)

Steps:

1. Add dry ingredients into a small steel steeping ball.
2. Bring 4 cups of water to a light boil, then pour over the steeping ball. Let steep for 4-5 minutes. (Keep in mind that blue lotus becomes more bitter the longer you steep.)
3. Once it reaches a beautiful bluish-green hue, you can remove your steeping ball, and if desired, press out the remaining essences of your herbal mixture. Add honey or agave nectar after steeping to sweeten this drink. Add a squeeze of lemon or garnish with lemon before serving for an extra kick.

Tips: This drink can be enjoyed both hot or chilled. It’s also best served at night, as kava and blue lotus both aid in relaxation. Feel free to adjust the ingredients to your particular palette and tolerance. Always consult with your doctor before trying new plant medicines, as every body is different.