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The Piper Methysticum Plant: A Complete Guide and Care Tips
Gardening can be a fulfilling hobby that brings us closer to the natural world.
As gardeners, we are always in search of new plants to add to our collection and the piper methysticum plant is an excellent choice.
Also known as kava, this traditional Pacific Island crop has gained popularity as a stress-relieving supplement.
What is a Piper Methysticum Plant?
The piper methysticum plant belongs to the pepper family and grows up to 3 meters tall.
Its leaves are large, heart-shaped with pointed tips.
The plant produces numerous lateral branches with small flowers arranged in spike-like patterns.
In traditional medicine, kava roots have been used for centuries for its calming effects on the mind and body.
The active compounds present in kava roots called kavalactones interact with various neurotransmitters like dopamine, serotonin, and gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) receptors reducing anxiety levels.
How to Grow Piper Methysticum Plants?
- Choose a suitable location – Kava plants prefer partial shade or full sun exposure depending on your climate zone.
- Select well-draining soil – Kava requires soil that drains well; otherwise it will develop root rot disease.
- Planting – You can either propagate from cuttings or purchase ready-to-plant seedlings from nurseries.
- Mulching – Apply organic mulch around each plant after planting; this will help keep moisture locked into the soil while suppressing weed growth too!
- Fertilize regularly – Use an organic fertilizer high in potassium every 4 weeks during growing season but avoid over-fertilizing as it may cause leaf scorching due to salt buildup.
Piper Methysticum Plant Care Tips
Kava plants are relatively easy to care for and require minimal maintenance as long as you follow the basic guidelines below:
- Water regularly – Kava plants need regular watering but avoid overwatering as it may cause root rot.
Keep soil moist but not waterlogged.
- Prune regularly – Trim away any dead, damaged or diseased leaves or stems to prevent pest infestation and promote healthy growth.
- Harvesting – You can harvest kava roots after 3-5 years of planting when matured enough.
Dig around the plant base with a spade shovel, remove the roots carefully, wash them thoroughly and dry them in sunlight or dehydrator before use.
The Benefits of Piper Methysticum Plants
Kava has been used traditionally in Pacific Island cultures for its sedative, analgesic properties to treat various ailments like anxiety disorders, insomnia, pain relief and muscle relaxation.
In recent years it has become popular globally as an alternative stress-relieving supplement without potential side effects from prescription medications like addiction or drowsiness which makes it a great natural remedy option for people looking for non-invasive ways to improve their mental health and well-being.
In Conclusion
The piper methysticum plant is an excellent addition to your garden if you’re looking for a versatile crop that offers both aesthetic value through its abundant foliage while providing significant health benefits through its medicinal properties.
Remember that although kava is considered safe when taken moderately under supervision by a healthcare provider; overconsumption may lead to liver damage so always be mindful of how much you consume at once!
