Australia mulls kava imports ban

By Phil Mercer
BBC News, Sydney

Kava has great social significance in the South Pacific

Australia is considering banning imports of kava to stop abuse in remote aboriginal communities.

The soothing, non-alcoholic drink was introduced there more than 20 years ago to combat the rising alcohol abuse.

But there is concern that kava is responsible for extreme weight loss and can cause heart and liver problems.

Dried and powdered roots of the kava shrub are imported to Australia from Pacific island nations such as Fiji, Tonga and Vanuatu.

'Semi-comatose'

Some aboriginal groups have claimed that the impact of kava on their communities is similar to the damage inflicted by alcohol and drugs.

According to researchers, it can cause extreme weight loss.

It has also been suggested that prolonged use of kava can heighten the risk of cardiovascular disease, pneumonia and liver dysfunction.

Australia's Indigenous Affairs Minister Mal Brough said a ban on kava imports was now being considered.

He said it was a dangerous substance that was leaving people semi-comatose.

Kava is mixed with water or - in the South Pacific, where it has great social significance - it is often blended with coconut milk.

This tranquillising brew numbs the tongue and lips. It can induce a sense of well-being and drinkers often report feelings of euphoria.

In Australia's Northern Territory the kava trade is subject to a strict licensing system, although there is also a flourishing black market.