Beginner quiz

Which kava is right for me?

Six common situations. Find yours and get a form recommendation, dosing guidance, and starting brand. Medically reviewed.

Situation 01

Never had kava before

Recommendation

Start with canned or instant

Dosing

1 can of Mitra 9 or Leilo; or 1 tbsp instant in cold water. Wait 30 min to assess.

Situation 02

Tried kava once, felt nothing

Recommendation

Reverse tolerance is real — try again

Dosing

2 tbsp instant or 1 shell of traditional prep. Try a few sessions before upping quantity.

Situation 03

Want the full traditional experience

Recommendation

Medium-grind noble powder

Dosing

2–4 tbsp in a straining bag, 8–12 oz cold water, knead 8 min. Drink on empty stomach.

Situation 04

Want something at a smoke shop tonight

Recommendation

Canned kava or Feel Free tonic

Dosing

1 can of Mitra 9, Leilo, or TRU Kava. Note: Feel Free contains kratom — different profile.

Situation 05

Prefer to avoid the taste

Recommendation

Kava capsules or extracts

Dosing

2–4 capsules of noble kava, or 50mg kavalactones of a tincture. Wait 45 min.

Situation 06

Replacing alcohol socially

Recommendation

Canned kava at home + visit a kava bar

Dosing

Start with 1 can while at home, then try a kava bar for the social ritual.

Still unsure?

Read our full product-form comparison or find a kava bar near you to try before buying.