The WHO and FAO created this technical report to evaluate the safety of traditionally prepared kava beverages and to support international standards for kava. Their review draws on decades of scientific research along with the long cultural history of kava use across the Pacific Islands.

Key Insights:

• The findings show that kava has a strong record of safe use.

• The traditional kava beverage is considered low risk and has been safely consumed for generations, with no evidence of long term liver harm in communities that use it daily.

• The report also highlights the natural benefits of noble kava and reinforces that traditionally prepared kava is a trusted, well tolerated and culturally significant beverage.