Extracts vs Capsules vs Candy

[Weioo]

Hello everyone,

I've lurked here for a bit but I finally figured it was time to sign up and join the crowd. I was wondering what most of you thought about extracts vs capsules vs candy to get a little extra kick when the effects start wearing off after drinking a few cups? This is something I'd like to be able to use at work as well, obviously not having had a few cups prior. All three options are a bit pricey so I'd like some inside info from those who have tried them before I delve in.

Any suggestions? Please and thanks!

 

[Roaddog]

hey, well allow, me to be the first to you to the kava forums. Ill start by saying the Candy is pretty good. I have never tried extracts, but I know if you do, you want to do CO2 extracts, and not Alcohol extracts. I have tried toss and wash, which would be similar to capsuling your kava. I didn't care for that. My favorite way to use Kava is the traditional way, where you make a tea, from it. Much Love Roaddog....

 

[Weioo]

Thanks RD!

 

[Runding]

I personally only use capsules from instant kava that I cap myself. It works very, very well

Buy your favorite instant, spend $5 on capsules, and then have a semi-messy time filling each capsule. It's basically the same thing as drinking kava, and you don't taste a thing (which I prefer over extracts or candy)

 

[Runding]

One other thing -- I don't trust kava capsule sellers, because you're not sure if it's plain root, an extract, type of extraction used, type of kava used, if there is anything aside from kava in the capsules, etc. With your own capsules, you can also understand how much you're REALLY ingesting so you don't make the mistake of over-using or under-using.

 

[Weioo]

Nice tip Runding, would you consider your method cost-effective as well?

 

[kavadude]

Buy your favorite instant, spend $5 on capsules, and then have a semi-messy time filling each capsule. It's basically the same thing as drinking kava, and you don't taste a thing (which I prefer over extracts or candy)

Do you use one of those capsule making machines? I used one once, it wasn't too messy.

 

[Runding]

It's most definitely NOT cost effective, as not only are you purchasing instant powders, but you're also buying capsules. It's possibly the costliest way of consuming kava, with the benefits being transfer-ability, no weird looks (people don't normally ask what type of medicine you're consuming, but they do ask what you're drinking), and no bad taste. I only use capsules when I'm out and about, so I don't worry much about the cost.

I also don't own a machine. I'm considering investing in one, but for now just scooping it up manually has been working without too much of a hassle.

I haven't really discussed this much on the forums, because most folks here look down on encapsulating the root. They worry it might turn the herb into something culturally like mary jane currently is. Personally, I use kava for anxiety and need its benefits mid-day, when it's not feasible to make some grog.

 

[Steve Mariotti]

Welcome to the forums, @Weioo!

I think the most cost effective way is medium grind, a good straining bag, and elbow grease. Others have said that GHK's micronized is the most cost effective though you do pay a premium since the production of micronized requires a lot more hands-on than producing medium grind root.

As for extracts, they just don't seem to pack the same punch, but can, as you mentioned, be an effective adjunct to the real thing and extend your kava sensations without needing to drink more grog.

In my experience, there's:

1. Ground root prepared the traditional way.
2. Everything else.

Many people have sworn by the capsules made by Gaia herbs for the initial intro to kava and getting over the reverse tolerance. Take them like vitamins in the evening until you really feel something (you'll know) and then switch to pricier more top-shelf root like the stuff from GHK, Kalm, BKH, KavaBoy, etc. and your money won't be going to waste.

For daytime use, people have said that the Kava Candy from Steve at Ozia is great for on-the-go. I haven't tried it yet, though I will eventually. They're supposed to taste really good. Also, Kalm's concentrate, sold in 10oz bottles and mixed 1:7 with water is fantastic, tasty and effective and is easy to mix up anywhere. Both of these products use kava extract made by supercritical CO2 extraction, so it's a full spectrum extract that's clean of any solvents.