SUPPORT THE COMMON HERITAGE
Awa is a plant that is indigenous to the Pacific and has a very rich cultural and natural history. It has been propogated by man for so long that it lost its ability to seed and only the males exist now.Because there were only male plants left, traditionally awa was only allowed to be drunk by males. It is mostly a ceremonial drink, but habitual use (which can be physically seen by broken blood vessels) is common throughout the Pacific. The properties of awa lend themselves well to humans because it is a relaxing agent which mellows the mind. Different awa plants and parts produce different reactions such as relaxation, socializing, and numbing of the mouth and lower back.
The missionaries did away with awa almost immediately when they arrived in Hawaii in order to spread Christianity, and alcohol was introduced. Because of this scenario, Hawaii (unlike the rest of the Pacific), has no recent history. The effects of awa are for the most part numbing, so it is very difficult to get into a confrontation.
The medicinal uses of awa are now gaining world-wide popularity. It is in many over-the-counter sleep aids. Large plantings in South America and Australia are currently supplying the world demand although Hawaii seems to grow the highest quality. This is probably because Hawaii did not see the world-wide interest soon enough. Hawaii currently grows awa, but not enough to dominate the world market.
In our garden, awa is fairly easy to grow. Like all the other crops at the garden, awa uses less water than under "normal" growing conditions. It can be a good crop for other coastal deserts which have few or no pain relieving medicines, but it can also have detriments if used habitually. Also, in the future there is the possibility of "awa bars" popping up just like coffee bars!!!