What are the Uses and Health Benefits of Kava (Piper methysticum)? Piper methysticum is a plant native of South Sea Islands. It has been used ceremonial for thousands of years. It has been used as a traditional drink and to make this drink, people first grind its roots to make a paste. The common name of this herb is “kava kava”, which comes from the Polynesian word “awa” meaning bitter. The root of this plant is packed with specific nutrients