Two Aluballs are better than one?

[Atticus]

Everyone talks about the fat helping absorption. I don't drink milk. So, I wonder if I could melt down coconut oil and mix it in to the batch? Has anyone ever tried this? Or simply add coconut oil to a warmer brew.

 

[Edward]

Everyone talks about the fat helping absorption. I don't drink milk. So, I wonder if I could melt down coconut oil and mix it in to the batch? Has anyone ever tried this? Or simply add coconut oil to a warmer brew.

I tried it with coconut oil and it was nowhere near as strong and it definitely left a fatty film. @Mrbinx69 did once say what it is in the milk that causes the uplift in effects but I can't remember what it was. Hopefully he will see this and be able to let us know.

 

[Atticus]

I should have done more research before asking. Here is a good thread on my question.
http://kavaforums.com/forum/threads/potentiates.8319/

 

[Atticus]

Tried out using two balls this weekend. Great stuff. It really made a nice batch. I put 1.5 tablespoons in each ball. So, will only be using around a tablespoon more.
Just ordered another Aluball.

 

[gdm]

Instead of the Aluball, wouldn't a better extraction come from using a blender, then screen?
Anyone compare the two methods.?

 

[Groggy]

Instead of the Aluball, wouldn't a better extraction come from using a blender, then screen?
Anyone compare the two methods.?

I tried it every which way and in the end, a 75-200 micron bag is the way to go or an aluball with 2-3 balls.

I do both, prefer a traditional prep but the portability of the aluball is sweeter.

 

[Edward]

Instead of the Aluball, wouldn't a better extraction come from using a blender, then screen?
Anyone compare the two methods.?

Aluballing is convenient but if I'm at home I nearly always blend. I find them about the same strength wise.

 

[gdm]

Blender would be easier. Any benefits or negatives vs the other methods.

 

[Edward]

Blender would be easier. Any benefits or negatives vs the other methods.

It's swings and roundabouts. I find a blender easier to prepare a bigger batch and to make it stronger if desired whereas the aluball is better to make up a quick batch of medium strength kava.

 

[Groggy]

It's swings and roundabouts. I find a blender easier to prepare a bigger batch and to make it stronger if desired whereas the aluball is better to make up a quick batch of medium strength kava.

but if you use 2-3 balls, it's a game changer

 

[Edward]

but if you use 2-3 balls, it's a game changer

Depends how many tbsps you usually use. Fill the balls with any more than about 1.5 tbsps each and you risk clogging the balls so not all the powder gets wet. I suppose you could do multiple washes and refill with fresh powder but then it's starting to get less convenient.

 

[Groggy]

Depends how many tbsps you usually use. Fill the balls with any more than about 1.5 tbsps each and you risk clogging the balls so not all the powder gets wet. I suppose you could do multiple washes and refill with fresh powder but then it's starting to get less convenient.

I use 2 tbs per ball X 2, it creates a solid strong first wash and a decent second. But ultimately kneading is better than blending (imo). It may take and extra 5 minutes but it's worth it.

 

[gdm]

Must be a better way than kneading. It just takes too much time and effort. Don't the kava bars use some sort of pressing method? any devices out there?

 

[gdm]

Okay, how about the boiling method vs blender, kneeding or auball

 

[Groggy]

Okay, how about the boiling method vs blender, kneeding or auball

Boiling the kava is one of those things it's fun to try once, kava prepared above 140 degrees degrades the kavalactone content of the root, so you end up drinking a weaker batch. (and it's thick and gross)

Blending works but it's messy and adds steps to something that can and should be simpler.

The Aluball is good on the go, it won't be as strong as kneading (unless you use 3 balls) I like it and use it on the go. Kneading, imo is the way to go, it takes a little longer but produces the best brew.