‘Doped’ on Kava – Understanding Kava’s Impacts on Cognition and Driving

This study considers kava (Piper methysticum G. Forst. f) and its effects on cognitive functioning when consumed traditionally. Kava drinking continues to play a dominant role in the cultural practices of many Pacific peoples, whether in their home environments or new diasporic communities. The relaxant and soporific effects resulting from lengthy kava use make it popular among non-Pacific users, too, as a ‘social lubricant’ and alternative to alcohol. Driving between kava venues after lengthy kava use has become routine among both traditional and new kava users.

The deterioration of cognitive function, including kava’s potential impacts on driver per-formance, has not been researched in depth until now. Funded by a New Zealand Health Research Council award, this first-of-its-kind study assessed kava users’ cognitive abilities during and after traditional kava use, producing unexpected results and new research possibilities. This study comes at a timely moment when high numbers of traffic accidents involving Pacific peoples are being recorded.