Free shipping on orders over $35. Spend $50 get a free strainer bag. Buy more and save.
Free shipping on orders over $35. Spend $50 get a free strainer bag. Buy more and save.
Your Cart is Empty
August 06, 2025 2 min read
Kava, the revered root from the South Pacific, owes its remarkable properties to a unique class of compounds called kavalactones. These natural molecules are the very essence of what makes kava a powerful botanical, influencing its distinct effects on relaxation, mental clarity, and well-being. At Wakacon, understanding these compounds is fundamental to providing you with premium kava that delivers a consistent and authentic experience.
Kavalactones are a group of at least 18 distinct compounds found primarily in the roots of the kava plant (Piper methysticum). They are responsible for kava's characteristic effects, interacting with the central nervous system to produce feelings of calmness, stress relief, and a unique state of focused tranquility. The concentration and specific blend of these kavalactones vary between different kava strains and even different parts of the kava root, directly influencing the overall experience.
The part of the kava plant used significantly impacts the kavalactone profile and, consequently, your experience. This is where the distinction between Lawena and Waka comes into play:
Lawena (Crown Root): Lawena is made from the Crown Root of the plant, similar to how a beet or turnip grows as a bulb under the ground. It typically contains less kavalactones and tends to have a more mild or subdued flavor than the Waka (Lateral Root), making it smoother and easier to drink. Many find Lawena perfect for daytime use or when they need a mild sleep aid, as it often provides a gentler, more relaxing effect.
Waka (Lateral Root): Waka is made from the Lateral Root. These roots form a web of smaller roots that extend out from the Crown Root, also growing below the ground. It is interesting to note that Fiji is the only place that will use these parts individually. In other places like Hawaii and Tonga, these two are typically combined or processed and consumed together as one. Waka tends to have a higher level of kavalactones, be darker in appearance, and have a more intense or bitter flavor. Waka is highly sought after because it's stronger and more potent, delivering deeper relaxation and more pronounced effects.
At Wakacon, our commitment to quality starts with understanding the science of kavalactones and sourcing the finest noble kava. We meticulously select our kava root to ensure optimal kavalactone content, providing you with premium kava powder that lives up to its reputation. Through rigorous third-party lab testing, we verify the purity and potency of every batch, ensuring that what's inside your Wakacon kava delivers the authentic, beneficial experience you expect. Whether you prefer the mild smoothness of Lawena or the robust strength of Waka, you can trust that Wakacon provides a clear difference rooted in science and tradition.