Why do several Polynesian sports stars have kava after a game, and for pain management

Kava has many beneficial effects, relaxation of mind and body, soothes aching muscles, it is analgesic and may have anti-inflammatory effects although this has not been confirmed through research.

A good reason to have kava after a game is it allows easy communication while maintaining mental clarity to help with post game analysis, it may also speed up recovery through muscle relaxation.

Kava has also been used to help with pain management following injury the advantage is that, as soon as a player is cleared to play there is no withholding period to wash out any substances prescribed for pain that might be banned for sport. Another advantage is that kava is not addictive.

Kava promotes good sleep an essential for physical recovery and mental clarity.