Kava strains
Every kava in our catalog, grouped by how it usually feels: heady, balanced or heavy. Open one to see where it's from and which bars pour it.
Heady
Brighter and more social. Often picked for daytime or a night out with friends.
- AhouiaVanuatu · Chemotype 432516A potent noble variety from Tanna with an unusually high yangonin content. It delivers a fast, powerful, and uplifting cerebral buzz.
- BiyajVanuatu · Chemotype 426531Cultivated alongside Asiyai on Aneityum. It offers steady, pleasant physical relaxation without overwhelming cerebral effects.
- Dokobana vulaFiji · Chemotype 462351Features a slightly lower total kavalactone percentage than its loa counterpart. However, it maintains a highly desirable, lively, and social profile.
- ʻAva La‘auSamoa · Chemotype 462153The most widely cultivated Samoan variety. It provides strong uplifting effects that actively encourage open communication.
- ʻAva Le‘aSamoa · Chemotype 462513A highly potent noble that averages the highest total kavalactones in Samoan roots. It provides a smooth, uplifting experience.
- KelaiVanuatu · Chemotype 423156Widely considered the holy grail of heady kavas due to its intensely cerebral rush. Both peer-reviewed data and vendor COAs support it as highly kavain-forward.
- LeayVanuatu · Chemotype 246351A potent, full-bodied Tanna cultivar. It hits hard initially with mental clarity before settling into a deep physical calm.
- Malo Tonga'Eua, Tonga · Chemotype 426531A branded noble Tongan kava profile sourced from the island of 'Eua. It is known for a smooth, creamy taste and a clean, heady character suited to daytime and social drinking. This record represents a named product profile rather than a single standardized botanical cultivar.
- MielaVanuatu · Chemotype 426351Another official noble strain from Emae. It is known to be slightly more uplifting and cerebral for daytime use.
- MōʻīHawaii · Chemotype 463251A sacred variety historically favored by Hawaiian royalty for its cerebral effects. Its high kavain content produces intense mental clarity.
- PalarasulVanuatu · Chemotype 246531A premium, fast-acting heady kava from Santo. It offers a clean, uplifting burst of energy and sociability.
- PalimetVanuatu · Chemotype 426351A prized local noble variety from the Polynesian outlier island of Emae. It provides clean, sociable effects suitable for community gatherings.
- PiaVanuatu · Chemotype 423516A highly regarded, smooth-drinking cultivar from Tanna. It serves as a versatile option for afternoon socializing or evening unwinding.
- PoivotaVanuatu · Chemotype 243561A well-rounded noble variety from Santo. It strikes an even balance between cerebral stimulation and physical relaxation.
- Pouni OnoTonga · Chemotype 426531The signature Tongan noble variety. It is prized globally for being exceptionally heady, mood-lifting, and perfect for daytime social use.
- PualiuVanuatu · Chemotype 246531A unique Tongoa cultivar whose effects initially feel mild. It can deliver a sudden, sneaky wave of heady stimulation after a short time.
- Stone KavaVanuatu · Chemotype 426531Branded Vanuatu noble product from Nakamal At Home. Described as a strong, 100% lateral-root kava with FELR testing and a reference chemotype of 426531, while also noting that blend chemistry can shift by batch.
- Vula kasa lekaFiji · Chemotype 463215The "short" white-stemmed variation. It is known for its highly social, heady effects and varying chemotype renderings.
Balanced
In between heady and heavy.
- AmonVanuatu · Chemotype 246513A steady, reliable noble cultivar from Tanna. It provides a rich flavor and a highly functional, relaxed state.
- AsiyaiVanuatu · Chemotype 246531A rare noble export from the southernmost island of Aneityum. It provides a smooth, functional traditional experience.
- Black SandVanuatu · Chemotype 425631Branded Vanuatu noble blend from Nakamal At Home. Marketed as a daily-drinking kava and described as approximately 75% basal stump (White Sand) and 25% lateral root (Stone). The referenced lab page lists 425631 as a reference chemotype, with batch variation possible.
- BoroguVanuatu · Chemotype 423561The primary export from Pentecost Island. It serves as a baseline "daily" noble reference cultivar in analytical work.
- Dokobana loaFiji · Chemotype 463251A high-quality noble cultivar with a very consistent chemical profile. It reliably delivers classic, strong yaqona relaxation.
- Epik KavaVanuatuBranded Vanuatu single-cultivar line from Nakamal At Home. The referenced page lists Birkar, Borogu, Kelai, shorthand Melo Melo, and Palarasul variants with differing average chemotypes, so this generic line row intentionally leaves chemotype and potency unset.
- Fire Island InstantVanuatu · Chemotype 425631Branded Vanuatu noble instant kava from Nakamal At Home. Made from Borogu as an aggregated instant powder and described as approximately 75% basal stump and 25% lateral root. The referenced lab page lists 425631 as a reference chemotype.
- Ge gusugVanuatu · Chemotype 246531A dependable daily-drinking noble kava from the Banks Islands. It provides a traditional, calming mental plateau.
- GorgorVanuatu · Chemotype 246531A dependable cultivar famous for its peppery, fresh green flavor profile. While listed as a Vanuatu noble by Codex, it was not in the 2002 Act schedule.
- HanakapiʻaiHawaii · Chemotype 423651Distinguishable by its unusually tall growing habit. It is a favored, strong variety originating from Kauai.
- Honokane IkiHawaii · Chemotype 463251A highly regarded traditional variety from Hawaii Island. It provides an excellent, balanced effect profile.
- ʻAva OfeSamoa · Chemotype 462513A newly discovered variety noted in recent Samoan national research. It is currently undergoing further phytochemical investigation.
- Kau KupwePNGThe only officially recognized noble cultivar from Papua New Guinea. Grown exclusively on Baluan Island, it is exceptionally rare and highly potent.
- Kava FulufuluTongaRecognized globally under the Codex standards as a traditional Tongan noble variety.
- Kava ʻAkauhinaTongaFormally listed in the Codex standards as a recognized Tongan noble.
- Kava KofeTongaListed formally in the Codex standards as an authentic Tongan noble cultivar.
- Kava LekahinaTongaOfficially listed as a named Tongan variety under the Codex Alimentarius standards. It is an established noble staple.
- Kava LekakulaTongaAnother named Tongan variety formally recognized by the Codex beverage standard. It provides a traditional noble experience.
- Kava ValuTongaA formally recognized Tongan noble listed in international beverage standards.
- KumakuaHawaii · Chemotype 462351Known as a tall "stands-in-the-mountains" variety. It offers culturally significant, balanced effects.
- Loa kasa lekaFiji · Chemotype 462351The "short" variation of the dark-stemmed yaqona. It appears repeatedly across farms as a highly stable, balanced noble crop.
- Loloma WakaVanua Levu, Fiji · Chemotype 423651A product-grade noble Fijian waka profile made from lateral roots sourced in Vanua Levu. It is positioned as strong and smooth with a balanced character for daytime or evening drinking. This is a named root-grade offering rather than a single standardized cultivar.
- MahakeaHawaii · Chemotype 461235A highly balanced, functional variety that serves as a staple in traditional medicine. Its chemistry can vary significantly based on the environment.
- MapulehuHawaii · Chemotype 462531A traditional variety featuring distinct reddish nodes. It is often described as a milder medicinal or ceremonial option.
- Matakaro balavuFiji · Chemotype 463251A balanced noble that perfectly demonstrates the vertical concentration gradient. Its roots consistently test significantly higher in kavalactones than its rhizomes.
- Matakaro lekaFiji · Chemotype 463251A dependable crop with a highly stable noble profile. It provides excellent evidence of realistic cultivar-level ranges across different farms.
- Melo MeloVanuatu · Chemotype 245361A deeply mellow and comfortable social kava. It is valued for easing anxiety without causing immediate sleepiness.
- Naga miwokVanuatu · Chemotype 246351Cultivated in the remote Banks Islands. This rare export provides an authentic, well-rounded noble kava experience.
- NēnēHawaii · Chemotype 463521Easily identified by its "turtle back" appearance. It was historically mild and soothing enough to be used as a syrup for children.
- OlitaoVanuatu · Chemotype 245631The third recognized noble cultivar from Emae. It provides classic relaxation that eases both mind and body equally.
- PanaʻewaHawaii · Chemotype 463215Known for delivering balanced, smooth effects. It is frequently reported to have a remarkably high total kavalactone yield.
- Papa ʻE. PuʻupuʻuHawaii · Chemotype 463251Presented as a distinct, strong entry separate from standard Papa ʻEleʻele. It maintains a highly balanced but potent chemotype.
- Papa ʻEleʻeleHawaii · Chemotype 462351A sacred, highly valued variety frequently applied in traditional Hawaiian medicinal remedies. It is known for robust growth and strong effects.
- Papa keaHawaii · Chemotype 462351Reported in modern summaries as potentially the strongest Hawaiian variety. It requires batch-specific verification due to its massive reported potency.
- PuarikiVanuatu · Chemotype 423156A smooth, clean-tasting noble variety from Tongoa supported by HPLC data. It is perfect for extended drinking sessions without causing lethargy.
- Qila balavuFiji · Chemotype 463251Included among Fiji’s noble cultivar set as a steady, balanced option. It was analytically verified with paired root and rhizome totals.
- Solomon KavaSolomon Is.Branded noble Solomon Islands product from Nakamal At Home, marketed on the referenced page as Solomon Gold kava. The page confirms noble classification and third-party testing but does not publish a stable text chemotype or potency figure for a generic row.
- TahuSolomon Is.A recognized noble cultivar from the Solomon Islands. It is formally anchored by the Codex varietal listing.
- UrukaraVanuatu · Chemotype 426531A staple daily drinker legally recognized as originating from Santo. It offers reliable, functional stress relief.
- Vula kasa balavuFiji · Chemotype 423651A white-stemmed, long-internode variety that provides balanced and strong effects. Its roots consistently show high potency in analytical studies.
- White SandVanuatu · Chemotype 245631Reference profile for White Sand, a branded Vanuatu noble basal-stump kava blend. Independently lab tested, FEBC-tested, and noble-classified with a reference chemotype of 245631. White Sand is 100% basal chips/stump, medium-fine, body-forward, softer in onset than lateral-root-heavy offerings, and commonly used for grounded evening sessions or for softening stronger lateral-root blends.
- Wow KavaVanuatuBranded Vanuatu noble five-star blend from Nakamal At Home. Described as being made primarily from Borogu with possible additional noble kavas, and as approximately 70% basal chip powder plus 30% lateral root powder. The referenced page notes chemotype variation by blend.
- YaluFiji · Chemotype 463251A recognized noble variety that meets strict Fijian yaqona standards. It provides a reliable, balanced experience with notable farm-to-farm variation.
- YonoluluFiji · Chemotype 462351Named as one of Fiji’s official noble varieties. It provides a standard, balanced traditional yaqona experience.
Heavy
More relaxing in the body. Often picked for evenings and winding down.
- Bir KarVanuatu · Chemotype 246513Known as "Red Kava" due to its reddish stems. This highly sought-after Santo strain offers complex, warm muscle relaxation.
- Bir SulVanuatu · Chemotype 246531A potent, physically sedating strain from Santo. It is ideal for deep muscle recovery and sleep.
- BorogoruVanuatu · Chemotype 425361Explicitly listed as noble in Vanuatu’s legal schedule. It is highly sought after for its heavy, physically sedating properties.
- DamuFiji · Chemotype 426351Identified by distinct reddish-purple stems. It is a "slow burner" that creeps up gradually to deliver deep, heavy muscle relaxation.
- FeoSolomon Is. · Chemotype 243165A potent noble cultivar frequently sourced from Santa Isabel province. It is noted for a distinct peppery flavor and smooth, heavy-leaning effects.
- Ge vemeaVanuatu · Chemotype 245631Another rare Banks Islands cultivar known for its darker roots. It provides deeply soothing, physically relaxing effects.
- Ge wiswisketVanuatu · Chemotype 246513Legally listed as a noble cultivar from Gaua. It is recognized for its robust flavor and reliable body-melting effects.
- HiwaHawaii · Chemotype 462351A dark-stemmed sacred variety traditionally utilized in hula and offerings. It is frequently favored for deep, ceremonial evening sessions.
- ʻAva MumuSamoa · Chemotype 462513A strong but balanced noble. It is very calming and physically relaxing without aggressively inducing sleepiness.
- ʻOpihikaoHawaii · Chemotype 462531Features a slightly heavier effect profile than most Hawaiian strains. It was once commonly found growing in relict wild patches.
- Kava ʻAkaukulaTonga · Chemotype 643251A high-methysticin noble variety. It provides calm, highly focused effects without heavy sedation.
- Loa kasa balavuFiji · Chemotype 462351A premium primary export with dark stems and long internodes. It is famous for extremely high root potency and strong, heavy-leaning effects.
- Melmel / SeseVanuatu · Chemotype 246531Legally listed as noble from Pentecost. It is prized for being exceptionally strong with a unique dreamy effect.
- Old RootsSavusavu, Fiji · Chemotype 426351A product-grade noble Fijian waka profile made from rare six to seven year old Dokobana roots sourced in the Savusavu region. It is strong, smooth, and heavy-leaning for evening drinking. This is a named aged-root offering rather than a single standardized cultivar.
- PalasaVanuatu · Chemotype 246531A robust Santo cultivar. It provides strong physical relief while maintaining a gentle, warming mental calmness.
- Qila lekaFiji · Chemotype 426351Distinctive for providing stronger physical sedation than typical Fijian varieties. Its methysticin levels often present differently than other local strains.
- Santa Cruz PurpleSanta Cruz Islands, Solomon Is. · Chemotype 423651A noble Solomon Islands product profile sourced from the Santa Cruz Islands in Temotu Province and also sold as Purple kava. The referenced blend uses approximately 80 percent lateral roots and 20 percent basal roots from mature plants, with a smooth, creamy and heavy evening profile.
- SileseVanuatu · Chemotype 423651An officially recognized noble kava from Malekula. It offers a balanced but heavy-leaning profile backed by HPLC data.
- Temo (Temotu Purple)Solomon Is. · Chemotype 423165A legendary noble famous for deeply sedating "knockdown power." It is easily identified by its purple stems.
- Vanuatu WakaVanuatu · Chemotype 423651Branded Vanuatu waka-grade kava from Fiji Vanua Kava. The referenced product page describes it as a combination of 5-6-year-old lateral roots from Tanna, Vanuatu, 100% sun dried, medium grind, and positioned for strong heavy evening drinking. Reference COA batch 2508B74-005 reports total kavalactones at 7.80% with inferred chemotype 423651, a noble-opening 4-2 profile. Because this is a product-grade blend/grade rather than a named single cultivar, these values should be treated as reference-batch data.
By origin
Kava known only by where it's from. Bars use these when the exact cultivar is unknown or blended.
About this list
89 strains, updated Nov 8, 2026. We list noble cultivars, plus a few origin choices for kava whose exact cultivar isn't known. Profiles and tags describe how people usually talk about a kava; they aren't medical or dosing advice.
Questions
What are kava strains?
Strains are kava cultivars, the plant varieties grown on different Pacific islands. Each page here shows where one comes from, its profile, its chemotype when we know it, and which bars pour it.
What do heady, heavy and balanced mean?
They're plain labels for how a kava usually feels. Heady is brighter and more social, heavy is more relaxing in the body and suits evenings, and balanced sits in between. They aren't medical or dosing advice.
Can I see which bars serve a strain?
Yes. When a bar links a strain on its HappyKava menu and marks it in stock, that bar shows up on the strain's page under Where to drink it.