Kava kava (Piper methysticum) is a tropical shrub that grows
throughout the Pacific Islands. Kava kava belongs to the pepper
family (Piperaceae) and is also known as kava, asava pepper, or
intoxicating pepper. It grows to an average height of 6 ft (1.83
m) and has large heart-shaped leaves that can grow to 10 in
(25.4 cm) wide. A related species is Piper sanctum, a native
plant of Mexico that is used as a stimulant. leprosy, gonorrhea,
vaginal infections, urinary infections, menstrual problems,
migraine headaches, and insomnia. It was also used as a
diuretic, an aphrodisiac, to promote energy, and to bring about
sweating during colds and fevers. Pacific Islanders consume a
kava kava drink at social, ritual, and ceremonial functions. It
is drunk at ceremonies to commemorate marriages, births, and
deaths; in meetings of village elders; as an offering to the
gods; to cure illness; and to welcome honored guests. Pope John
Paul II, Queen Elizabeth II, and Hillary Rodham Clinton have all
drunk kava kava during thei