State says 'awa, also known as kava, is 'generally recognized as safe' : Big Island Now
Based on numerous scientific journals and publications provided to the Health Department and College of Tropical Agriculture and Human Resources, the state concluded that the use of the noble variety of ‘awa root, mixed with water or coconut water, is safe and consistent with the substance and intent of federal regulations.
United States University Of Hawaii Health Department College Of Tropical Agriculture Drug Administration Hawaii Department Of Health
Source: bigislandnow.com