When it comes to kava, there’s lots of varieties to choose from. If you’re new to the kava scene and trying kava for the first time, you may be asking yourself, “Instant or micronized—what’s the vibe?” Both instant and micronized kava are wonderful for on-the-go relaxation and offer the same calming effects. That said, they are processed differently, which can affect their cost and how they feel on your palate. Read on to discover more about the differences between instant vs micronized kava and their unique benefits.
What is Instant Kava?
Our instant kava is a finely ground, powdered form of kava that mixes easily into any non-alcoholic beverage of your choice. It’s the most pure form of kava available, created by dehydrating fresh green kava juice. Green kava is a strong kava juice made when the roots of freshly harvested kava plants are juiced and then diluted with water. Instant kava is known for its incredibly smooth mouthfeel because the woody fibers of the kava plant are strained out during the juicing process before the liquid is dehydrated. Not all those selling instant kava take the care and extra steps to strain out these fibers as we do. That’s why, with our Kalm Standards, we ensure that you’re only getting the highest quality kava available.
Similar to instant coffee, instant kava is mixed with water to create an easy-to-drink kava beverage. However, keep in mind that, unlike instant coffee that fully dissolves in water, instant kava stays as a suspension and is not 100% soluble. There’s always a little bit of sediment left in your cup. But that sediment does not take away from the drinkability of instant kava; it’s still smooth and pleasant to sip.
What are the Benefits of Instant Kava?
From a smooth mouthfeel to strong effects, instant kava has many benefits. Here are a few that make it a fan favorite:
Reasons You’ll Love Instant Kava:
- It produces quick mind and body relaxation effects.
- It’s a more potent kava, perfect if you like strong kava.
- It’s easy to take with you, on the go, and drink any time of day.
- It has a smooth mouthfeel, making the back of your throat less itchy.
- It’s easy on your stomach because you’re not digesting coarse kava fibers.
- It’s 100% Noble kava, sourced directly from Pacific Island farmers.
What is Micronized Kava?
Unlike instant kava, our micronized kava is produced from the kava root itself instead of dehydrated green kava. The kava root is ground down until it reaches an exceptionally fine consistency. In this process, we filter out most of the coarse fibers typically present in medium grind kava. This removes the need for steeping or straining your kava. While it’s impossible in this process to filter out 100% of the kava fiber, the resulting particles are so fine that they create a ready-to-mix powder that you can simply stir into your favorite liquid and enjoy.
What are the Benefits of Micronized Kava?
Micronized kava is the way to go for a high-quality kava experience that won’t drain your wallet. Here’s why it’s such a crowd-pleaser:
Reasons You’ll Love Micronized Kava:
- It’s easier to taste when blended with your favorite drink.
- It provides immediate, powerful effects.
- It’s an excellent option for helping reduce stress and lifting your mood quickly and strongly.
- It’s a great choice for a high-quality kava experience that’s easy on your budget.
- It’s 100% Noble kava, sourced directly from Pacific Island farmers.
Instant vs Micronized Kava: Which is Right for You?
While they’re both convenient options for on-the-go relaxation, instant and micronized kavas offer slightly different drinking experiences. So, if you’re trying to decide between the two, here are the key takeaways to keep in mind:
- Instant Kava: If you’re a kavasseur who doesn’t mind investing a little more in your kava experience and prefer a smooth texture, instant kava is perfect for its quick mind and body relaxation effects.
- Micronized Kava: On the flip side, if you’re on a budget but looking for a cost-effective, nearly instant kava, then micronized kava is your best bet.
Try Our Kava Variety Selection Tool
Choosing a favorite kava can be tricky. If you’re still unsure which kava is right for you, our kava variety selection tool can help. It’s a quick quiz that guides you through a few easy questions, and then pairs you with the perfect kava. Start your path to calm below.
Instant vs Micronized: Frequently Asked Questions
1. Question: Do you need to strain micronized kava?
Answer: No, you do not need to strain micronized kava. Micronized kava is relatively simple to prepare and can be easily mixed with your favorite beverages. Before making your micronized kava drink, pay attention to the recommended dosage to use. Because it is more concentrated than medium grind kava root, a micronized kava dose is about 2-4 teaspoons per serving, depending on the strength of kava drink you want. In comparison, medium grind kava uses 2-4 tablespoons per serving.
2. Question: Can you make micronized kava in larger quantities?
Answer: Yes. Lots of people make kava in tanoas, traditional bowls carved from a single piece of wood handcrafted to serve kava. Remember, kava is a suspension, not a solution. So, when you prepare it, the sediment will fall to the bottom of the bowl, and you need to stir it up right before every serving.Ready to Take Your Calm with You?
Want to unwind the island way wherever you go? Shop our selections of instant and micronized kava today. At Kalm with Kava, we’re committed to selling the freshest, highest quality kava so you get the best kava experience possible.