KAVA COMPOSITIONS AND RELATED METHODS AND SYSTEMS

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[001] Compositions containing kavalactones from Piper spp. roots and methods for preparing the compositions are described.

BACKGROUND

[002] Kava or Kava Kava (Piper methysticum) is a tropical plant grown in the Pacific Islands. Kava is often exported as an herbal medicine. Kava is known for its many health benefits. As an example, Kava has a sedating effect when ingested. Also, the root of the plant is used to produce a drink with sedative, anesthetic, and euphoriant properties. It is often noted as beneficial for treating anxiety and restlessness.

[003] The active ingredients in Kava are called kavalactones. The kavalactones are a class of lactone compounds found in the kava shrub. Kavalactones are by their nature sticky and insoluble. [004] These properties prove difficult in manufacturing of products containing kavalactones. In this regard, when a solution containing kavalactones is introduced to equipment, e.g., filter machinery, the sticky kavalactones interfere with the processing. Thus, it is difficult to create products containing kavalactones.

SUMMARY

[005] In some embodiments a method of preparing a kavalactone slurry and liquid dietary supplement includes extracting kavalactones from a Kava plant or providing kavalactones from another source. The method also includes adding water to the Kava extract or other kavalactone source, with the water heated and providing the extract/kavalactones and the heated water to the homogenizer. Further, the method includes mixing the mixture by homogenization or high shear mixer/mixing to generate a slurry of Kava and water. Further still, the method includes agitating the slurry and the water with a mixer.

[006] Illustrative embodiments of a liquid dietary supplement include water and a water-soluble Kava Kava root extract generated through the use of a homogenizer.

[007] In an embodiment, a method of the present invention is for preparing a liquid dietary supplement, the method comprising, consisting essentially of, or consisting of the steps of: providing a Kava extract comprising kavalactones; adding water as needed; and mixing the kavalactones and the water in a homogenizer or a high shear mixer to prepare a slurry of the kavalactones and the water. [008] The present methods further comprise, consist essentially of, or consist of the steps of: generating a uniform slurry of kavalactones and water; and agitating the slurry and the water with a mixer. In addition, the present methods comprise providing at least one of a sugar and a sweetener prior to or during mixing with the homogenizer or high shear mixer; comprise a homogenizer including a stator having more than one rows of teeth; a filter configured to filter out particles greater than about 25-50 microns, wherein the mixed slurry is pressurized through the filter; batch pasteurizing of the slurry; and/or adding Stevia, citric acid, and/or other ingredients to the slurry, agitated slurry, or otherwise to the liquid dietary supplement.

[009] In an embodiment, the present invention is directed to a liquid dietary supplement, comprising, consisting essentially of, or consisting of: a water-soluble Kava Kava root extract. Said liquid dietary supplement may further comprise, consist essentially of, or consist of for instance a non-sugar sweetener, such as a sugar alcohol, stevia, a masking agent, monk fruit extract; citric acid; a vitamin mineral blend; and/or a flavoring blend. Also in an embodiment, a liquid dietary supplement of this invention has a Kava Kava root extract content less than or equal to approximately 1.0 grams; a vitamin mineral blend content approximately greater than 1 gram; carbonari on; and/or fruit juice as a sweetener.

[010] The foregoing summary is illustrative only and is not intended to be in any way limiting. In addition to the illustrative aspects, embodiments, and features described above, further aspects, embodiments, and features will become apparent by reference to the drawings and the following detailed description.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[Oi l] The present disclosure can be better understood with reference to the following drawing figures. The elements of the drawing figures are not necessarily to scale relative to each other, emphasis instead being placed upon clearly illustrating the principles of the disclosure. Furthermore, like reference numerals designate corresponding parts throughout the several views. [012] FIG. 1 is a flowchart depicting a method of producing a kavalactone extract in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[013] FIG. 2 is an exemplary flowchart indicative of the process of creating a liquid dietary supplement containing kavalactones in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. [014] FIG. 3 is an exemplary high shear mixer used in the producing a liquid dietary supplement containing Kava in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[015] FIG. 4 is an exemplary cross-sectional view of a sanitary bag filtration device in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[016] FIG. 5 is an illustrative embodiment of a homogenizer in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[017] FIG. 6 is an illustrative embodiment of a homogenizer reactor head in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[018] FIG. 7 is an exemplary flowchart indicative of the process of creating a liquid dietary supplement containing kavalactones using a homogenizer in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[019] The present disclosure describes systems and methods for preparing Kava preparations comprising kavalactones including for instance a water-soluble slurry from a Kava root extract or other Kava root source useful for a variety of end products, including for instance a liquid dietary supplement in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. Water-soluble Kava Kava root extracts are prepared according to the present invention.

[020] Preparations and methods of the present invention provide a non-sticky, evenly dispersed slurry containing kavalactones, which forms the functional base of a liquid dietary supplement and other ready to drink beverages. The kavalactones and/or other components are, without being bound by theory, solubilized. A Kava slurry prepared according to this invention is ready-made to be soluble in water and homogenizes the kavalactones on a microscopic level.

[021] Importantly and unexpectedly, the kavalactones present in the present Kava slurries are no longer super sticky or adhesive to themselves in the slurry. This facilitates the manufacture of Kava preparation products, reducing stickiness in manufacturing equipment such as high shear blenders, carbonation tanks, canning lines, and so forth. In an embodiment, a Kava slurry of this invention is at least 1:1 or 1:2 Kava extract comprising kavalactones to water. Before the development of the present methods, Kava products could not be manufactured without the slurry, because without the slurry, the product stuck to manufacturing equipment and blocked production. In particular, a water-kavalactone slurry was difficult to work with due to this stickiness.

[022] Also, the Kava preparations of the present invention provide a liquid dietary supplement which is uniform post- homogenization and filtration meaning there is very little if any at all sedimentation, product mouthfeel is consistent, and flavor is consistent from start to finish.

[023] The below discussion and definitions are intended to guide understanding but are not intended to be limiting with regard to other disclosures in this application. Throughout this application, references to percentage (%) of compositions of the present invention refers to the % by weight of a given substance to the total weight of the composition being discussed, also signified by “w/w” or “wt/wt”, unless stated otherwise.

[024] In accordance with exemplary embodiments, the present invention includes a method for preparing an extract (“Kava extract”) of Piper spp. comprising kavalactones. In an embodiment, the extract is from the root of a Piper spp. plant. This process may include first grinding Piper spp. roots or otherwise disrupting the root (e.g. chopping, crushing, cutting, blending, pulverizing, homogenizing, etc., using for instance any speed blender, a mill, any shear mixer, other tools, or by hand) to increase access to root tissues, and then immersing or otherwise partially or fully covering and soaking the disrupted plant tissue with an extraction solvent. In an embodiment, the Kava root (e.g. Piper spp. root such as Piper methysticum root) may be dried, fresh, raw, or already processed. In an embodiment, Kava is extracted from the plant material and may be filtered producing a cake substance. The plant extract (cake) produced is a substance with desirable properties.

[025] In an embodiment, any Piper species or strain or variety may be used in a process of the present invention (Piper spp.). In an embodiment, a noble Kava variety is used. In an embodiment, the extract is prepared from a Kava plant having desirable amounts of kavalactones, and in an embodiment, also having lower concentrations of other compounds that may cause adverse side- effects. In an embodiment, a Kava extract of this invention is prepared from Piper methysticum (G. Forst). In an embodiment, a slurry, dietary supplement, or other preparation according to the present invention may be from another kavalactone source, including for instance, a synthetic kavalactone source, or a natural kavalactone source, for instance, Alpinia zerumbet. In such case, the slurry, dietary supplement, or other kavalactone source may be used in the present invention in the place of or addition to a Kava extract.

[026] In an embodiment, an extraction solvent of this invention comprises ethanol and/or water. In an embodiment, the extraction solvent used to prepare the Kava extract is 95% ethanol and 5% water. In an embodiment, an extraction solvent may be ethanol such as about 100% ethanol, water such as about 100% water, acetone, oil such as corn oil, glycerin, C02, and other solvents for instance known in the art for preparing a Kava extract comprising kavalactones.

[027] Next, in an embodiment, concentration and desolventization may be performed on the disrupted plant material such as the above-mentioned cake material using extraction solvent such as 95% ethanol and 5% water. In an embodiment, extraction according to this invention is native extraction, preparing a Kava extract consisting only of Kava Kava plant components and excluding any excipients or other added substances (“native extract”). The native extraction process may utilize multiple passes of the extraction solvent such as 95% ethanol and 5% water solution through the cake material. In an embodiment, each successive pass extracts more kavalactones until the desired concentration, for instance 30% kavalactones, is reached. In an embodiment, a Kava extract according to this invention comprises about 1-100% kavalactones (w/w of the total composition) including for instance 1-10%, 11-20%, 21-30%, 25-35%, 30%, 20-40%, 25-50%, 30-60%, 30-80%, and other ranges or amounts of kavalactones within said ranges. In an embodiment, a Kava extract of this invention comprises about 30% kavalactones.

[028] In an embodiment, the kava extract with kavalactones may then be spray-dried using, in an embodiment, modified starch and silicon dioxide. The spray-dried extract may then be sieved. That is, the sieving process filters large particles out of the substance for instance and without being bound by theory to ensure that the large particles do not interfere with other machinery, e.g., a pump. The sieved extract may be packaged and labeled thereby creating Kava extract with kavalactones having a specified particle size. Tests may be performed on the substance for quality control, general aspect, analytical quality, and microbiological quality. In an embodiment, the substance produced is Kava Kava root PE having 30% kavalactones tested via High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC). In an embodiment, a Kava extract or other Kava material such as Kava root may be stored e.g. in solid, liquid, or semisolid form, including for instance a jelly, gel, paste, and used to prepare a Kava preparation of this invention, for instance as described in FIG. 2 or 7. The extraction method described may be varied in many different ways and with differing orders of steps without departing from the scope of the present disclosure or invention. [029] In an embodiment, a Kava root extract of this invention is a Kava Kava root PE comprising 30% Kavalactones as measured by HPLC.

[030] Once the kavalactones are extracted from the plant, the Kava extract comprising kavalactones may be used to prepare a Kava preparation of this invention, such as a Kava slurry or a Kava liquid dietary supplement. In an embodiment, a Kava extract and/or other Kava plant material such as raw or baked or dried Kava such as ground Kava root may be used to create a Kava preparation of this invention. In an embodiment, a Kava preparation of this invention comprises a Kava root extract comprising kavalactones, including for instance a native extract comprising kavalactones or a Kava Kava root PE extract comprising 30% kavalactones, or other Kava root starting material (including for instance raw Kava), that has been mixed with heated water as discussed further below. In an embodiment, reference to a Kava extract according to this invention may include other kavalactone sources including Kava itself as discussed above. The Kava preparation may or may not be spray-dried, sieved, packaged, tested, or otherwise processed, and the kavalactones throughout the preparation process may or may not be measured, as desired. [031] In this regard, the first step is providing water as needed, and preferably heating the water. In an embodiment, the Kava extract is in powdered form, and water must be added. In an embodiment, the Kava extract is already in aqueous solution, such that the addition of less or no water may be necessary. In an embodiment, water is added to the Kava extract in a ratio of at least 1 : 1, as discussed below. In an embodiment, the water is heated to about 140-180°F, including for instance 145°F to about 175°F, about 150°F to about 170°F, about 155°F to about 165°F, or about 160°F (about 71°C). While still functional according to this invention, without being bound by theory, water heated to a temperature below 140°F or for instance at room/ambient temperature (not heated) or even below does not create optimal dispersion in the present invention, although it may be useful in this invention; and water heated above 180°F may damage the kavalactones. In an embodiment, water is not heated above 180F. In an embodiment, any type of water may be used in this step; in an embodiment, water that has been distilled and/or deionized is used. In an embodiment, other components may be included in the water if desired. In an embodiment, water may be heated in a mixing vessel, such as a high shear mixer or a homogenizer. In an embodiment, a liquid Kava extract may be heated with the water. In an embodiment, the water need not be heated, but may be for instance in the range of 50F to 180F, for instance at room temperature. [032] In an embodiment, in an optional step, the kavalactones (e.g. Kava extract or other Kava material) may be combined with a substance such as sugar. In an embodiment, the Kava extract (with kavalactones) to sugar ratio is from about 1:1 to about 1:2. In an embodiment, the Kava extract (kavalactones) to sugar ratio is 1 :2. While kavalactones are necessary in this process, sugar and/or other substances are not (i.e., the kava extract to sugar ratio cannot be 0:1 (no kavalactones)). A slurry including sugar according to the present invention will generally have a higher viscosity than a slurry which has only kavalactones and water. In an embodiment, any sugar may be used, including for instance purified cane sugar, glucose, fructose, galactose, and the like. In an embodiment, in lieu of or in addition to sugar, another substance such as vitamin mix, sugar, stevia, other sweeteners or desired substances may be added to the Kava extract/kavalactones before (or even during) mixing. In an embodiment, the substance added to the kavalactones/Kava extract prior to or during mixing is a powdered substance, for instance in ratios as indicated for sugar above, or for instance in ranges of ratios as shown in the below Examples.

[033] The water (optionally heated water) and Kava (e.g. Kava extract comprising kavalactones) are placed in (e.g. poured into, together or separately) a vessel and the mixture is mixed (e.g. pulverized) with a high shear mixer. In an embodiment, the order of addition is not important. In an embodiment, the water to Kava extract (comprising kavalactones) ratio is at least (weight-to- weight) ratio of 1 : 1.

[034] In an embodiment, the water (for instance water heated to 180F or less) to Kava extract (comprising kavalactones) ratio is from about 1:1 to about 20:1, or a higher ratio if desired. In an embodiment, the water to Kava extract (comprising kavalactones) ratio is about 10:1. In an embodiment, the water to extract/kavalactones ratios is from about 1:1 to about 20:1, or a higher ratio if desired. In an embodiment, the water to extract/kavalactones ratio is about 10:1. In an embodiment, the water to extract/kavalactones ratio is about 1:1 to about 10:1, or about 10:1 to about 20: 1. In an embodiment, the Kava extract is in powdered form and water and Kava powder are provided in amounts and ranges of amounts as described in the Examples.

[035] The heated water and kavalactones mixture is mixed for at least twenty (20) minutes. The mixing may be stopped at 20 minutes, or allowed to continue for instance for 25 or 30 minutes or longer as desired. In an embodiment, the mixing is under high shear conditions, such as a high shear blender, or homogenized, for instance in a homogenizer. A high shear mixer disperses one phase or ingredient (liquid, solid, gas) into a main continuous phase (liquid). The high shear mixer contains at least a rotor or impeller and a stator (or an array of rotors and stators) to mix the kava and water mixture (and optionally e.g. sugar) in a tank to create shear. In an embodiment, larger batch sizes are prepared with the homogenizer. In an embodiment, mixing may comprise, consist essentially of, or consist of mixing under high shear; in an embodiment, mixing may comprise, consist essentially or, or consist of mixing with a homogenizer. In an embodiment, mixing may include high shear mixing and homogenization.

[036] In an embodiment, during the mixing step, the mixture is not heated above 180F. In an embodiment, the mixing step temperature is controlled to a temperature in the range of about 140- 180F, or another temperature described herein as appropriate for the mixing step; in an embodiment, said mixing step is controlled to a temperature of 180F or less. In an embodiment, the mixture (water, Kava extract/kavalactones including other kavalactone source, and/or including any other ingredients) is not heated above 180F at any point, or in a specified step, during this present methods.

[037] In an embodiment, a stabilizer (binding agent) such as gellan gum or guar gum is included with the heated water and kavalactones prior to mixing. In an embodiment, the stabilizer is added when mixing is under high shear conditions such as in a high shear mixer. In an embodiment, the stabilizer may be necessary when mixing under high shear conditions such as in a high shear mixer. In an embodiment, the stabilizer is necessary when mixing with only water and kavalactones under high shear conditions such as in a high shear mixer. In an embodiment, a stabilizer, when used in the present invention, is present in an amount of 0 to about 0.04% of the subject composition (w/w), including for instance from about 0.01% to about 0.04%, about 0.02% to about 0.04%, or from about 0.03% to about 0.04%. In an embodiment, the mixing step is performed with a homogenizer, and no stabilizer (binding agent; e.g. gellan or guar gum)) is used in the mixing step. [038] In an embodiment, the material after mixing is a Kava slurry of the present invention, and may be consumed by humans or other mammals. The Kava slurry is a non-sticky, evenly dispersed (especially after filtration) slurry containing kavalactones, which forms the functional base of for instance a Kava liquid dietary supplement of this invention. In an embodiment, a “slurry” according to the invention is prepared by the mixing step, and may undergo filtration to be further improved, for instance by improving its consistency (e.g. more evenly dispersed) or removing materials (e.g. stabilizer such as a gum). In an embodiment, the inclusion of a stabilizer before mixing requires a filtration step after mixing. In an embodiment, no stabilizer (e.g. gum) is added in the preparation of the slurry when mixing will be by homogenization.

[039] After mixing, the mixture may be pumped through a filter. In an embodiment, and without being bound by theory, filtration is the step, in an embodiment the last step, to ensure particle size homogenization has occurred by catching anything else that is larger than the filter. In an embodiment, the filter is in the range of 50 to 25 microns. In an embodiment, the filter is a 25 micron filter, and in another embodiment, the filter is a fifty (50) micron filter. In an embodiment, the output of the filter is a liquid dietary supplement consumable by humans. In an embodiment, a water-kavalactone slurry of the present invention has a yellow color. All of the ratios and filter sizes may be varied without departing from the scope of the disclosure. In an embodiment, filtration is used after using a high shear mixer in the mixing step. In an embodiment, filtration is required after using a high shear mixer in the mixing step. In an embodiment, filtration is used after using a homogenizer in the mixing step. In an embodiment, filtration is required after using a homogenizer in the mixing step. In embodiment, filtration is particularly useful and in an embodiment required after high shear mixing, and also, filtration is less necessary or not necessary after mixing via homogenization. In an embodiment, filtration may be useful at a different stage of the manufacturing process of this invention, such as immediately prior to adding a liquid dietary supplement to a can.

[040] In an embodiment, powdered substances are added to the Kava extract and water before mixing; in an embodiment, the addition of powdered substances prior to mixing Kava extract and water to prepare a Kava slurry of this invention will further aid in the reduction of the “stickiness” of kava material and in the gumming up of manufacturing equipment used to prepare for instance a liquid dietary supplement of this invention.

[041] FIG. 1 is an exemplary flowchart depicting the extraction of kavalactones from a plant, e.g., Piper methysticum G. Forst.

[042] In step 100 the plant material, noble roots only, is ground. In one embodiment, noble root plant material is ground with a mill. It may be ground or disrupted using other means in other embodiments of the present disclosure.

[043] In step 101 those parts of the plant roots, e.g., kavalactones, are extracted from the ground plant material. In one embodiment, extraction of the kavalactones is effectuated using ninety-five percent (95%) ethanol and five percent (5%) water. Other substances at other percentages may be used in other embodiments.

[044] In step 102, the solution of kavalactones, water, and ethanol are filtered. When filtered and rested, the solution produces a cake-like substance.

[045] In step 103, the cake-like substance is concentrated and dissolved in ninety-five percent (95%) ethanol and five percent (5%) water creating a solution of ethanol, water, and kavalactones. Other concentrations of water and ethanol may be used in other embodiments. [046] In step 104, the kavalactones are extracted from the Kava source material and solution via native extraction in the multi pass process (e.g. repeating steps 101-102 and 103) described above. In an embodiment, the cake-like substance is discarded or used for another purpose.

[047] In step 105, the kavalactones are spray-dried using modified starch and silicon dioxide. Other spray-drying materials may be used in accordance with other embodiments.

[048] In step 106, sieving is performed on the spray-dried product to obtain the kavalactones. In step 107, the kavalactones can be packaged and labelled, and samples may be created of the kavalactones. Finally, the final product is tested for quality control, general aspect, analytical quality, and microbiological quality in step 108.

[049] Steps 100-106 may be used to generate Kava Kava root PE 30% kavalactones HPLC, which may be used to prepare a Kava preparation of this invention such as a Kava slurry or a liquid dietary supplement containing kavalactones.

[050] FIG. 2 is a flowchart indicative of the process of creating a Kava slurry and a Kava liquid dietary supplement containing kavalactones in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. In an embodiment, the sequence of steps is not necessarily in the order presented. The liquid dietary supplement may be created in other ways in other embodiments.

[051] In step 200, water is heated to at least 160°F. While 160°F is one embodiment, other temperatures may be used in other embodiments. The “*” in FIG. 2 is to show an range of about 140°Fabout 180°F, however other temperatures may also be used, as discussed elsewhere in this application.

[052] In step 201 , kavalactones are mixed with sugar in a 1 :2 ratio creating a Kava/sugar mixture. That is, one measurement of kavalactones to two measurements of sugar. Note that while a 1:2 ratio is cited, other ratios may be used in other embodiments.

[053] In step 202, the kava/sugar mixture is mixed with the heated water in a large vessel and pulverized with a high shear blender. The high shear mixer disperses one phase or ingredient (liquid, solid, gas) into a main continuous phase (liquid). The high shear mixer contains at least a rotor or impeller and a stator (or an array of rotors and stators) to mix the kava/sugar mixture in a tank to create shear. The mixture is mixed in the high shear mixer for twenty minutes in step 203. The resulting slurry is a Kava preparation according to this invention.

[054] In step 204 a sanitary bag filter housing is used. In this regard, the kava/sugar mixture is pumped through a filter bag. In one embodiment, a 50 micron filter bag is used. However, other types of bags may be used in other embodiments. The resulting mixture is a non-sticky, evenly dispersed slurry containing kavalactones, which forms the functional base of the liquid dietary supplement. In various embodiments various filtration members or filter bags may be used with a nominal pore size of less than 50 microns. Further, as smaller pore size filters may be used, the liquid slurry may need to be pressurized.

[055] In step 205 the slurry is slowly added to remaining water which has been heated to about 55°F degrees. The in FIG. 2 is to note that a range of temperatures is acceptable at this point, for instance, room/ambient temperature, or a range for instance of 50-80°F. The solution is agitated by a low shear mixer in a vessel in step 206. As the slurry becomes soluble in the solution, a functional blend of vitamins, natural flavors, stevia, citric acid, and gellan gum are slowly added into the solution. This forms the liquid dietary supplement. In accordance with various embodiments other additives may be used to create varied desired results in taste, quality, consistency, etc.

[056] In step 208 the liquid dietary supplement is cooled to 35 degrees. The low shear mixer is turned off, and the liquid mixture binds and settles in step 209 after some time. The “***” in FIG. 2 is to note a preferred temperature for cooling the supplement to carbonate properly, including for instance 34°F-36°F.

[057] In step 210 the liquid dietary supplement is transferred from the blending vessel to the carbonation tank, where it remains at 35 degrees for 5-8 hours of carbonation. The liquid dietary supplement is uniformly carbonated to 3.0 volumes.

[058] In step 211 the canning line is cleaned and sterilized to ensure quality. In step 212, the liquid dietary supplement is pumped via an electric pump at 12 psi through the canning line for 8 hours of processing. The liquid dietary supplement is kept at 35 degrees throughout this process. [059] In step 213 the liquid dietary supplement, now in 12 oz sleek cans, is pasteurized at 160 degrees for 10 minutes. The preferred method of pasteurization is tunnel, though other forms may be used in other embodiments, such as but not limited to batch Pasteurization.

[060] FIG. 3 is a high shear mixer 300 used to generate the liquid dietary supplement in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. The high shear mixer 300 comprises a head 301, an impeller 302, a shaft 303, a seal plate 304, a bearing frame305, and a motor 306. [061] In one embodiment, the head 301 is a Rotosolver II (Admix, Londonderry, New Hampshire, USA). In this regard, the head comprises a first opening (not shown) in the top of the head and a second opening in the bottom of the head. Further, the head 301 comprises machined slots in a diagonal pattern on the outer walls of the head 301. In operation, substance enters a cavity of the head 301 from the top and bottom openings.

[062] As substance enters the top of the head 301, they are exposed to mechanical shears (not shown). The high-velocity, counter current streams converge with a stator within the head 301. This causes high turbulence and hydraulic shear, without momentum loss from obstructions within the stator.

[063] Centrifugal pressure forces the substance to a periphery (not shown) of the stator where it is subjected to further mechanical shear as material passes the sharpened edges of the slots. Notably, the discharge of the substance combines with a slower moving tank flow for additional hydraulic shear.

[064] The impeller 302 is coupled to the head via a shaft. The impeller 302 is a rotor that rotates thereby increasing a pressure and a flow of the substance.

[065] The head 301 and the impeller 302 are coupled to the output shaft 303. The output shaft, when rotated, causes the head 1 to rotate and mix the substance in which the head 301 is contained. [066] The high shear mixer 300 further comprises a seal plate 304 that is coupled to a bearing frame 305. The bearing frame 305 is rotated by a motor 306. When the motor 306 is on, it rotates the mixer output shaft 303 thereby rotating the head 301 and mixing the substance.

[067] In accordance with various embodiments, various combinations of low shear and high shear blending may be used. Further, the blending may be, in some embodiments, improved with the use of a homogenizer in combination with high shear blending. The use of high shear blending with the addition of the homogenizer and adequate filtration, as discussed above, may lead to a drink having no noticeable sedimentation.

[068] FIG. 4 is across-sectional view of an exemplary sanitary bag filtration device 400 in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. The sanitary bag filtration device 400 comprises a housing 404. The housing 404 comprises an inlet pipe 401, a basket 402, and an outlet pipe 403. The basket sits on and is coupled to a basket seat 405.

[069] In operation, a filter bag (not shown), e.g., a 50 micron filter bag, is placed within the basket 402. Note that the filter bag may rest on and be coupled to the basket seat 405. The kava/sugar mixture described above is introduced to the inlet pile 401. The kava/sugar mixture goes into the basket 402 through the filter bag and exits the housing 402 through an outlet pipe 403. The mixture outputted is a non-sticky, evenly dispersed slurry containing kavalactones, which forms the functional base of the liquid dietary supplement.

[070] In an embodiment of this invention, a Kava slurry preparation is prepared with a high shear mixer, a stabilizer during mixing, and filtration after mixing. In an embodiment of this invention, a Kava slurry preparation is prepared with a homogenizer, and optionally with a stabilizer during mixing and/or filtration after mixing.

EXAMPLES

[071] The below Examples are Kava preparations according to the present invention, prepared from a water-soluble Kava Kava root extract slurry as described above. Slurries for Examples 1- 4 were prepared with a high shear mixer and gum as a stabilizer, and were filtered to improve slurry quality and remove the stabilizer (gum), for instance. Slurries for Examples 5-6 were prepared with a homogenizer and without gum, in keeping with FIG. 7, and did not require filtration.

[072] For all of Examples 1-6, water and kava (and where added, sugar and other powdered/solid components such as vitamin blends, citric acid, salt/sea salt, monkfruit sweetener) were included pre-mixing and pre-filtration (e.g. box 1302 of Fig. 7) and everything else (e.g. flavors, colors, sweeteners, for instance in liquid form, such as stevia extract, tango berry flavor, beta carotene, red color, blackberry juice/concentrate, blackberry orange WONF, bourdeaux color natural, raspberry hibiscus lemonade, lemonade flavor, ginger flavor, pink color, agave, pineapple flavor, coconut flavor, mango flavor) was added post-filtration (after mixing and where needed after filtration). It is noted, generally with regard to the present invention, that the addition of components such as described immediately above may be provided at different times throughout the process. The Kava extract/kavalactone source used in the Examples is a powdered Kava root extract comprising 30% kavalactones and in powdered form.

EXAMPLES 1-4

[073] Table 1 shows a formula for a Kava-containing liquid dietary supplement having a lemon ginger flavor in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. Notably, the lemon ginger flavored Kava liquid dietary supplement comprises water, organic cane sugar, a stabilizer, e.g., gellan gum, Kava Kava Root extract, a vitamin and mineral blend, citric acid, and stevia. In addition, the lemon ginger flavored Kava liquid dietary supplement has lemon flavoring and ginger flavoring. The lemon ginger flavored Kava liquid dietary supplement has a pH of 3.24 and a Brix of 3.7. Note that Brix identifies the amount of dissolved solids in the liquid via its specific gravity and is used to measure dissolved sugar, especially.

[074] The lemon ginger flavored Kava liquid dietary supplement contains 37.8587021 (approximately 338) grams of water and makes up 95.5861% (approximately 96%) of the lemon ginger flavored Kava liquid dietary supplement. Thus, much of the lemon ginger flavored Kava liquid dietary supplement is water.

[075] The lemon ginger flavored Kava liquid dietary supplement contains 8.03685703 grams (approximately 8 grams) of organic cane sugar and makes up 2.2920% (approximately 2%) of the lemon ginger flavored Kava liquid dietary supplement. Note that the organic cane sugar is sugar obtained directly from sugar cane

[076] The lemon ginger flavored Kava liquid dietary supplement contains 0.01339476182 grams (approximately 0.01 grams) of a stabilizer, e.g., gellan gum, which makes up approximately 0.0038% (.004%) of the lemon ginger flavored Kava liquid dietary supplement. Note that gellan gum is a water-soluble anionic polysaccharide used to stabilize, thicken, add texture, and suspend other ingredients in the lemon ginger flavored liquid dietary supplement.

[077] The lemon ginger flavored Kava liquid dietary supplement contains 0.75 grams of Kava Kava root extract, which makes up approximately 0.21356% (approximately 0.2%) of the lemon ginger flavored Kava liquid dietary supplement. Kava Kava roots are known for their medicinal properties. For example, the Kava Kava root may be used in treating anxiety disorders, benzodiazepine withdrawal, common cold/upper respiratory tract infections, depression, epilepsy, headaches/migraines, insomnia, musculoskeletal pain, psychosis, and stress.

[078] The lemon ginger flavored Kava liquid dietary supplement contains approximately 1.073999392 grams (approximately 1 gram) of a vitamin and mineral blend, which makes up 0.031530% of the lemon ginger flavored Kava liquid dietary supplement. The vitamins and mineral blend may vary depending upon the application or use of the lemon ginger flavored Kava liquid dietary supplement.

[079] The lemon ginger flavored Kava liquid dietary supplement contains approximately 2.19670921 grams (approximately 2 grams) of citric acid, which makes up approximately 0.062551% (approximately 0.06%) of lemon ginger flavored Kava liquid dietary supplement. Note that the citric acid has a sour taste and is predominantly used as a flavoring and a preserving agent in the lemon ginger flavored Kava liquid dietary supplement. [080] The lemon ginger flavored Kava liquid dietary supplement contains approximately

0.085726470726 grams (approximately 0.09 grams) of Stevia extract, which makes up approximately 0.02441% (approximately 0.2%) of the lemon ginger flavored Kava liquid dietary supplement. Note that Stevia is natural, unlike other sugar substitutes. It is made from a leaf related to popular garden flowers like asters and chrysanthemums. [081] To provide the lemon ginger flavored Kava liquid dietary supplement with its lemon ginger flavor, flavors are added to the base recipe. In the example of the lemon ginger flavored Kava liquid dietary supplement, approximately 0.296470726 grams (approximately 0.3 grams), which is about 0.08442% of the lemon ginger flavored Kava liquid dietary supplement, is added to the base formula. In addition, approximately 0.8572647498 grams (approximately 0.9 grams) of ginger flavor is added, which is approximately 0.24410% of the lemon ginger flavored Kava liquid dietary supplement. The pH of the lemon ginger flavored liquid dietary supplement is approximately 3.24 and the Brix is approximately 3.7.

TABLE 1

Kava liquid dietary supplement, lemon ginger flavor

[082] All of the above proportions and quantities of ingredients should not be considered limiting as to the scope of the disclosed embodiments as they are provided by way of example only.

[083] Table 2 shows a formula for a Kava-containing liquid dietary supplement having a tango berry flavor in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. Notably, the tango berry flavored Kava dietary supplement comprises water, organic cane sugar, a stabilizer, e.g., gellan gum, Kava Kava Root extract, a vitamin and mineral blend, citric acid, and stevia. In addition, the tango berry flavored Kava liquid dietary supplement container tango berry flavor, beta carotene, and red coloring. The tango berry flavored Kava liquid dietary supplement has a pH of 3.24 and a Brix of 3.7. As noted above Brix identifies the number of dissolved solids in the liquid via its specific gravity and is used to measure dissolved sugar, especially.

[084] The tango berry flavored Kava liquid dietary supplement contains approximately 336.2002136 (approximately 336) grams of water, which makes up 95.5861% (approximately 96%) of the tango berry flavored Kava liquid dietary supplement. Thus, much of the tango berry flavored Kava liquid dietary supplement is water.

[085] The tango berry flavored Kava liquid dietary supplement contains approximately 8.061401911 grams (approximately 8 grams) of organic cane sugar and makes up approximately 2.2920% (approximately 2%) of the tango berry flavored Kava liquid dietary supplement. As noted above, the organic cane sugar is sugar obtained directly from sugar cane

[086] The tango berry flavored Kava liquid dietary supplement contains approximately 0.013435566958 grams (approximately 0.01 grams) of a stabilizer, e.g., gellan gum, which makes up approximately 0.0038% (.004%) of the tango berry flavored Kava liquid dietary supplement. As noted above, gellan gum is a water-soluble anionic polysaccharide used to stabilize, thicken, add texture, and suspend other ingredients in the lemon ginger flavored liquid dietary supplement. [087] The tango berry flavored Kava liquid dietary supplement contains 0.75 grams of Kava Kava root extract, which makes up approximately 0.21356% (approximately 0.2%) of the tango berry flavored Kava liquid dietary supplement. As indicated herein, Kava Kava roots are known for their medicinal properties. For example, the Kava Kava root may be used in treating anxiety disorders, benzodiazepine withdrawal, common cold/upper respiratory tract infections, depression, epilepsy, headaches/migraines, insomnia, musculoskeletal pain, psychosis, and stress.

[088] The tango berry flavored Kava liquid dietary supplement contains approximately 1.11068 grams (approximately 1 gram) of a vitamin and mineral blend, which makes up .031580% of the tango berry flavored Kava liquid dietary supplement. The vitamins and mineral blend may vary depending upon the application or use of the tango berry flavored Kava liquid dietary supplement. [089] The tango berry flavored Kava liquid dietary supplement contains approximately 2.060136043 grams (approximately 2 grams) of citric acid, which makes up approximately 0.5857% (approximately 0.6%) of the tango berry flavored Kava liquid dietary supplement. Note that the citric acid has a sour taste and is predominantly used as a flavoring and a preserving agent in the tango berry flavored Kava liquid dietary supplement.

[090] The tango berry flavored Kava liquid dietary supplement contains approximately 0.08957113254 grams (approximately 0.09 grams) of Stevia extract, which makes up approximately 0.0255% (approximately 0.3%) of the tango berry flavored Kava liquid dietary supplement. As noted above, that Stevia is natural, unlike other sugar substitutes. It is made from a leaf related to popular garden flowers like asters and chrysanthemums.

[091] To provide the tango berry flavored Kava liquid dietary supplement with its tango berry flavor, additional substances are added to the base formula. In one example of the tango berry flavored Kava liquid dietary supplement, approximately 3.13498632 grams (approximately 3 grams), which is about 0.08913% (approximately 1%) of tango berry flavored Kava liquid dietary supplement, is added to the base formula. In addition, approximately 0.2687133966 grams (approximately 0.3 grams) of Beta Carotene is added. Note that Beta Carotene is a red-orange pigment found in plants and fruits. Beta Carotene is approximately 0.0764% of the tango berry flavored Kava liquid dietary supplement. Further, red color is added to the tango berry flavored Kava liquid dietary supplement. In this regard, approximately 0.035828445321 grams (approximately 0.04 grams) is added. The pH of the tango berry flavored Kava liquid dietary supplement is approximately 3.24 and the Brix is approximately 3.7.

TABLE 2

Kava liquid dietary supplement, tango berry flavor [092] Table 3 shows a formula for a Kava-containing liquid dietary supplement having a blackberry orange flavor in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. Notably, the blackberry orange flavored Kava dietary supplement comprises water, organic cane sugar, a stabilizer, e.g., gellan gum, Kava Kava Root extract, a vitamin and mineral blend, citric acid, and stevia. In addition, the blackberry orange flavored Kava dietary supplement contains blackberry juice concentrate, blackberry orange with other natural flavors (WONF), and Bordeaux coloring. The blackberry orange flavored Kava dietary supplement has a pH of 3.55 and a Brix of 4.21. As noted above, Brix identifies the number of dissolved solids in the liquid via its specific gravity and is used to measure dissolved sugar, especially.

[093] The blackberry orange flavored Kava dietary supplement contains approximately

336.412203 (approximately 336) grams of water, which makes up 95.569956% (approximately 96%) of the blackberry orange flavored Kava dietary supplement. Thus, much of the blackberry orange flavored Kava dietary supplement is water.

[094] The blackberry orange flavored Kava dietary supplement contains approximately

7.92277894433 grams (approximately 8 grams) of organic cane sugar and makes up approximately 2.50753% (approximately 2%) of the blackberry orange flavored Kava dietary supplement. As noted above, the organic cane sugar is sugar obtained directly from sugar cane

[095] The blackberry orange flavored Kava dietary supplement contains approximately

0.0125708259 grams (approximately 0.01 grams) of a stabilizer, e.g., gellan gum, which makes up approximately 0.00357% (approximately 0.004%) of the blackberry orange flavored Kava dietary supplement. As noted above, gellan gum is a water-soluble anionic polysaccharide used to stabilize, thicken, add texture, and suspend other ingredients in the blackberry orange flavored Kava dietary supplement. The blackberry orange flavored Kava dietary supplement contains 0.75 grams of Kava Kava root extract, which makes up approximately 0.213064% (approximately 0.2%) of the. As indicated herein, Kava Kava roots are known for their medicinal properties. For example, the Kava Kava root may be used in treating anxiety disorders, benzodiazepine withdrawal, common cold/upper respiratory tract infections, depression, epilepsy, headaches/migraines, insomnia, musculoskeletal pain, psychosis, and stress.

[096] The blackberry orange flavored Kava dietary supplement contains approximately 1.091584322 grams (approximately 1 gram) of a vitamin and mineral blend, which makes up 0.0310104% (approximately 0.03%) of the blackberry orange flavored Kava dietary supplement. The vitamins and mineral blend may vary depending upon the application or use of the blackberry orange flavored Kava dietary supplement.

[097] The blackberry orange flavored Kava dietary supplement contains approximately

1.760619874 grams (approximately 2 grams) of citric acid, which makes up approximately 0.500167% (approximately 0.6%) of the. As noted above, the citric acid has a sour taste and is predominantly used as a flavoring and a preserving agent in the blackberry orange flavored Kava dietary supplement.

[098] The blackberry orange flavored Kava dietary supplement contains approximately

0.0880309937 grams (approximately 0.09 grams) of Stevia extract, which makes up approximately 0.025008% (approximately 0.3%) of the blackberry orange flavored Kava liquid dietary supplement. As noted above, that Stevia is natural, unlike other sugar substitutes. It is made from a leaf related to popular garden flowers like asters and chrysanthemums. To provide the blackberry orange flavored Kava liquid dietary supplement with its blackberry orange flavor, additional substances are added to the base formula. In one example of the blackberry orange flavored Kava liquid dietary supplement, approximately 0.2711354606 grams (approximately 0.3 grams), which is approximately 0.0770206% (approximately 0.1%) of blackberry juice is added to blackberry orange flavored Kava liquid dietary supplement. In addition, approximately 3.345177761 grams (approximately 3 grams) of blackberry orange with other natural flavors is added. Further, Bordeaux color is added to the blackberry orange flavored Kava liquid dietary supplement. In this regard, approximately 0.352123978 grams (approximately 0.04 grams) is added, which is about 0.0102 (approximately 0.01) to the blackberry orange flavored Kava liquid dietary supplement. The pH of the blackberry orange flavored Kava liquid dietary supplement is approximately 3.55 and the Brix is approximately 4.21.

TABLE 3

Kava liquid dietary supplement, blackberry orange flavor

[099] Table 4 shows a formula for a Kava-containing liquid dietary supplement having a raspberry hibiscus lemonade flavor in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. Notably, the raspberry hibiscus lemonade flavored Kava dietary supplement comprises water, organic cane sugar, a stabilizer, e.g., gellan gum, Kava Kava Root extract, a vitamin and mineral blend, citric acid, and stevia. In addition, the raspberry hibiscus lemonade flavored Kava dietary supplement contains raspberry hibiscus lemonade and a pink coloring. The raspberry hibiscus lemonade flavored Kava dietary supplement has a pH of approximately 3.39 and a Brix of approximately 4.1. As noted above, Brix identifies the number of dissolved solids in the liquid via its specific gravity and is used to measure dissolved sugar, especially.

[100] The raspberry hibiscus lemonade flavored Kava dietary supplement contains approximately 336.8164065 (approximately 337) grams of water, which makes up 95.75801% (approximately 96%) of the raspberry hibiscus lemonade flavored Kava dietary supplement. Thus, much of the raspberry hibiscus lemonade flavored Kava dietary supplement is water.

[101] The raspberry hibiscus lemonade flavored Kava dietary supplement contains approximately 8.044248912 grams (approximately 8 grams) of organic cane sugar and makes up approximately 2.28683% (approximately 2%) of the raspberry hibiscus lemonade flavored Kava dietary supplement. As noted above, the organic cane sugar is sugar obtained directly from sugar cane

[102] The raspberry hibiscus lemonade flavored Kava dietary supplement contains approximately 0.013400708152 grams (approximately 0.01 grams) of a stabilizer, e.g., gellan gum, which makes up approximately 0.00381% (approximately 0.004%) of the raspberry hibiscus lemonade flavored Kava dietary supplement. As noted above, gellan gum is a water-soluble anionic polysaccharide used to stabilize, thicken, add texture, and suspend other ingredients in the raspberry hibiscus lemonade flavored Kava dietary supplement.

[103] The raspberry hibiscus lemonade flavored Kava dietary supplement contains 0.75 grams of Kava Kava root extract, which makes up approximately 0.213064% (approximately 0.2%) of the. As indicated herein, Kava Kava roots are known for their medicinal properties. For example, the Kava Kava root may be used in treating anxiety disorders, benzodiazepine withdrawal, common cold/upper respiratory tract infections, depression, epilepsy, headaches/migraines, insomnia, musculoskeletal pain, psychosis, and stress.

[104] The raspberry hibiscus lemonade flavored Kava dietary supplement contains approximately 1.08318739 grams (approximately 1 gram) of a vitamin and mineral blend, which makes up 0.0310104% (approximately 0.03%) of the raspberry hibiscus lemonade flavored Kava dietary supplement. The vitamins and mineral blend may vary depending upon the application or use of the raspberry hibiscus lemonade flavored Kava dietary supplement.

[105] The raspberry hibiscus lemonade flavored Kava dietary supplement contains approximately 1.876991413 grams (approximately 2 grams) of citric acid, which makes up approximately 0.53359% (approximately 0.5%) of the raspberry hibiscus lemonade flavored Kava dietary supplement. As noted above, the citric acid has a sour taste and is predominantly used as a flavoring and a preserving agent in the raspberry hibiscus lemonade flavored Kava dietary supplement.

[106] The raspberry hibiscus lemonade flavored Kava dietary supplement contains approximately 0.079426333518 grams (approximately 0.08 grams) of Stevia extract, which makes up approximately 0.025008% (approximately 0.3%) of the raspberry hibiscus lemonade flavored Kava dietary supplement. As noted above, that Stevia is natural, unlike other sugar substitutes. It is made from a leaf related to popular garden flowers like asters and chrysanthemums.

[107] To provide the raspberry hibiscus lemonade flavored Kava liquid dietary supplement with its raspberry hibiscus lemonade flavor, additional substances are added to the base formula. In one example of the raspberry hibiscus lemonade flavored Kava dietary supplement, approximately 0.2711354606 grams (approximately 0.3 grams), which is approximately 0.077026% (approximately 0.01%) of raspberry hibiscus lemonade is added to raspberry hibiscus lemonade flavored Kava dietary supplement. Further, pink color is added to the raspberry hibiscus lemonade flavored Kava dietary supplement. In this regard, approximately 0.3575221738 grams (approximately 0.04 grams) of pink coloring is added, which is about 0.10164 (approximately 0.1) to the raspberry hibiscus lemonade flavored Kava dietary supplement. The pH of the raspberry hibiscus lemonade flavored Kava dietary supplement is approximately 3.39 and the Brix is approximately 4. TABLE 4

Kava liquid dietary supplement, Raspberry Hibiscus flavor

[108] In accordance with various embodiments, a Kava liquid dietary supplement may be made with any of a variety of sweeteners or sugar substitutes in place of or partially in place of cane sugar as disclosed above. Sweeteners or sugar substitutes may include but are not limited to stevia extract, monk fruit extract, erythritol, xylitol, allulose, other sugar alcohols, etc.

[109] In accordance with various embodiments, a homogenizer may be used in the above discussed process. In an exemplary embodiment such a homogenizer may be but is not limited to the Quadro Ytron ZC by Idex Material Processing Technologies of Waterloo, Ontario, Canada. An exemplary homogenizer depicted in FIG. 5 may be designed to disperse difficult-to-wet powders into solution in a single pass. The homogenizer may be used continuously as part of an in-line process or as part of a batch process. Such homogenizers are available in a variety of sizes without departing from the scope of the disclosure. [110] In exemplary operation of the homogenizer of FIG. 5, a powder hopper 5 may be configured to draw kavalactones down into a reactor head 11 through a powder valve 6 to mix with the incoming liquid coming from an inlet pump 1 from a liquid supply 2 through an inlet valve 3 and a regulator valve 4 and instantaneously disperse the two components into a homogeneous solution, which is then discharged through product outlet 7, outlet pump 8, batch tank 9. A pressure gauge 10 may be used to monitor pressure in the exit stream. Shear is achieved by the interaction of the multiple toothed rotor turning at high speed and in close tolerance (but not touching) with the multiple toothed stationary stator.

[111] The concentration at which the homogenizer will disperse kavalactones into liquid will depend on a number of factors such as powder flow characteristics, liquid flow rate and tooling selection.

[112] Referring now to FIG. 6, the reactor head 11 may include a rotating element - the rotor 12, and a stationary element - the stator 13. Conventional tooling configuration may use rotor 12 with two rows of teeth and a stator 13 with one row of teeth. Tooling may be characterized by the tooth- gap and the number of teeth. As a general rule, the tooth gap is chosen based on-product viscosity, flow rate and powder concentration required.

[113] In various embodiments, in-line processing may be ideal for producing a constant flow of product at a fixed concentration. The inlet pump 1 feeds liquid to the homogenizer. Inlet valve 3 is used as an on/off control for the liquid feed. It is recommended that the flow rate of liquid into the unit be set at a constant rate, either with a regulator valve 4 or through the use of an orifice plate. Product can be allowed to discharge through an open hose, or with the assistance of an outlet pump 8. A constant flow of kavalactones can be achieved with a bulk powder hopper or vacuum transfer system.

[114] In the exemplary processes discussed herein, the homogenizer may be a substantial substitute for the high shear mixer and the filtering which may include a double or triple filtering. Further, using the homogenizer also removes the need for any thickening or stabilizing agents such as but not limited gum-based or non-gum-based thickeners. In the examples discussed, the use of Gellan Gum as a thickener or stabilizer is not necessary when processed with the use of a homogenizer. Use of a homogenizer for the production of kava-based beverages and other kava- based products may solve many of the issues related to the use of kava in various food and beverage products and dietary supplements. Further still, the use of such homogenizers provides the ability for an increase of throughput or production rate.

[115] In accordance with various embodiments, use of the homogenizer does not limit the flavor combinations that can be produced for a Kava liquid dietary supplement. Notably, an example of a lemon ginger flavored Kava liquid dietary supplement comprises water, organic cane sugar, Kava Kava Root extract, a vitamin and mineral blend, citric acid, and stevia. In addition, the lemon ginger flavored Kava liquid dietary supplement has lemon flavoring and ginger flavoring. The lemon ginger flavored Kava liquid dietary supplement has a pH of 0.32 and a Brix of 0.78. Note that Brix identifies the amount of dissolved solids in the liquid via its specific gravity and is used to measure dissolved sugar, especially.

[116] FIG. 7 is a flowchart indicative of the process of creating a liquid dietary supplement containing kavalactones using a homogenizer in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. The sequence of steps is not necessarily in the order presented. The liquid dietary supplement may be created in other ways in other embodiments.

[117] In step 1300, water may be heated to at least 160°. While 160°F is one embodiment, other temperatures may be used in other embodiments. The “*” in FIG. 7 is to show an acceptable range of about 140°F to about 180°F, however other temperatures may also be used, as discussed elsewhere in this application.

[118] In step 1302, the kavalactones are provided to the feed hopper of the homogenizer and are fed into and through the homogenizer as discussed above with reference to Figs. 5 and 6. In accordance with some embodiments sugar or sweeteners may also be provided to the homogenizer. Simultaneously, the heated water is provided to the homogenizer to be mixed with the kavalactones. The mixture is then mixed for twenty minutes in step 1303.

[119] In step 1304, a sanitary bag filter housing may be used. In this regard, the kava/sugar mixture may be pumped through a filter bag. In one embodiment, a 50 micron filter bag is used. However, other types of bags may be used in other embodiments. Alternatively, the filtering step may be skipped in accordance with various embodiments. The resulting mixture is a non-sticky, evenly dispersed slurry containing kavalactones, which forms the functional base of the liquid dietary supplement. In various embodiments various filtration members or filter bags may be used with a nominal pore size of less than 50 microns. Further, as smaller pore size filters may be used, the liquid slurry may need to be pressurized.

[120] In step 1307, a functional blend of vitamins, natural flavors, stevia, citric acid, and gellan gum are slowly added into the solution. This forms the liquid dietary supplement. In accordance with various embodiments other additives may be used to create varied desired results in taste, quality, consistency, etc.

[121] In step 1308, the liquid dietary supplement may be cooled to 35 degrees. The “***” in FIG. 7 is to note a preferred temperature for cooling the supplement to carbonate properly, including for instance 34°F-36°F.

[122] In step 1310, the liquid dietary supplement may be transferred from the blending vessel to the carbonation tank, where it remains at 35 degrees for 5-8 hours of carbonation. The liquid dietary supplement may be uniformly carbonated to 3.0 volumes.

[123] In step 1311, the canning line may be cleaned and sterilized to ensure quality. In step 1312, the liquid dietary supplement may be pumped via an electric pump at 12 psi through the canning line for 8 hours of processing. The liquid dietary supplement is kept at 35 degrees throughout this process.

[124] In step 1313, the liquid dietary supplement, now in 12 oz sleek cans, may be pasteurized at 160 degrees for 10 minutes. The preferred method of pasteurization is tunnel, though other forms may be used in other embodiments, such as but not limited to batch pasteurization.

[125] The success of the present invention may be seen in many ways. The present invention eases manufacturing burdens from the processing of kavalactone products, for instance from Piper spp. (Kava), by (without being bound by theory) increasing water solubility of the Kava extract/kavalactones and therefore or otherwise decreasing “stickiness” of a Kava extract or preparation of this invention in manufacturing equipment. Also, a liquid dietary supplement of the present invention becomes uniform post-homogenization and filtration meaning there is very little if any at all sedimentation, product mouthfeel is consistent, and flavor is consistent from start to finish. When it is only high shear mixed without stabilizer it is not nearly as uniform, there is sedimentation, there is kava that sticks to the machines and clogs filters, etc.

EXAMPLES 5-6

[126] Table 5 shows an example formula for a Kava-containing liquid dietary supplement having a lemon ginger flavor in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. The lemon ginger flavored Kava liquid dietary supplement contains 341.650 grams of water and makes up 95.98258% (approximately 96%) of the lemon ginger flavored Kava liquid dietary supplement. Thus, much of the lemon ginger flavored Kava liquid dietary supplement is water. This formulation may be particularly applicable to the methods which include the use of a homogenizer for processing. It is notable that the use of the homogenizer reduces the need for a stabilizer such as gellan gum or the like.

[127] The lemon ginger flavored Kava liquid dietary supplement contains 9.000 grams of organic cane sugar and makes up 2.52845% (approximately 3%) of the lemon ginger flavored Kava liquid dietary supplement. Note that the organic cane sugar may be sugar obtained directly from sugar cane. [128] The lemon ginger flavored Kava liquid dietary supplement contains 0.75 grams of Kava Kava root extract, which makes up approximately 0.21070% (approximately 0.2%) of the lemon ginger flavored Kava liquid dietary supplement. Kava Kava roots are known for their medicinal properties. For example, the Kava Kava root may be used in treating anxiety disorders, benzodiazepine withdrawal, common cold/upper respiratory tract infections, depression, epilepsy, headaches/migraines, insomnia, musculoskeletal pain, psychosis, and stress.

[129] The lemon ginger flavored Kava liquid dietary supplement contains approximately 1.110 grams (approximately 1 gram) of a vitamin and mineral blend, which makes up 0.31184% of the lemon ginger flavored Kava liquid dietary supplement. The vitamins and mineral blend may vary depending upon the application or use of the lemon ginger flavored Kava liquid dietary supplement.

[130] The lemon ginger flavored Kava liquid dietary supplement contains approximately 1.880 grams (approximately 2 grams) of citric acid, which makes up approximately 0.52816% (approximately 0.5%) of lemon ginger flavored Kava liquid dietary supplement. Note that the citric acid has a sour taste and is predominantly used as a flavoring and a preserving agent in the lemon ginger flavored Kava liquid dietary supplement.

[131] The lemon ginger flavored Kava liquid dietary supplement contains approximately 0.460 grams (approximately 0.5 grams) of Stevia extract, which makes up approximately 0.12923 % (approximately 0.1%) of the lemon ginger flavored Kava liquid dietary supplement. Note that Stevia is natural, unlike other sugar substitutes. It is made from a leaf related to popular garden flowers like asters and chrysanthemums.

[132] To provide the lemon ginger flavored Kava liquid dietary supplement with its lemon ginger flavor, flavors are added to the base recipe. In the example of the lemon ginger flavored Kava liquid dietary supplement, approximately 1.1 grams which is about 0.32g (approximately 0.3g), which makes up approximately 0.08990% (approximately 0.1%) of the lemon flavor and 0.780g (approximately 0.8g) which makes up approximately 0.21913% (approximately 0.2%) of the ginger flavor, of the lemon ginger flavoring that is added to the base formula of the Kava liquid dietary supplement. The pH of the lemon ginger flavored liquid dietary supplement is approximately 0.32 and the Brix is approximately 0.78.

TABLE 5

Kava liquid dietary supplement, lemon ginger flavor

[133] Table 6 shows an example formula for a Kava-containing liquid dietary supplement having a lite (low sugar or no sugar) pineapple coconut mango flavor in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. The lite pineapple coconut mango flavored Kava liquid dietary supplement contains 349.846 grams of water and makes up 98.5920% (approximately 99%) of the lite pineapple coconut mango flavored Kava liquid dietary supplement. Thus, much of the lite pineapple coconut mango flavored Kava liquid dietary supplement is water. This formulation may be particularly applicable to the methods which include the use of a homogenizer for processing. It is notable that the use of the homogenizer reduces the need for a stabilizer such as gellan gum or the like. [134] The lite pineapple coconut mango flavored Kava liquid dietary supplement contains 0.461 grams of liquid stevia extract and makes up 0.1299% (approximately 0.1%) of the lite pineapple coconut mango flavored Kava liquid dietary supplement. Note that Stevia is natural, unlike other sugar substitutes. It is made from a leaf related to popular garden flowers like asters and chrysanthemums. [135] The lite pineapple coconut mango flavored Kava liquid dietary supplement contains 0.75 grams of Kava Kava root extract, which makes up approximately 0.2114% (approximately 0.2%) of the lite pineapple coconut mango flavored Kava liquid dietary supplement. Kava Kava roots are known for their medicinal properties. For example, the Kava Kava root may be used in treating anxiety disorders, benzodiazepine withdrawal, common cold/upper respiratory tract infections, depression, epilepsy, headaches/migraines, insomnia, musculoskeletal pain, psychosis, and stress.

[136] The lite pineapple coconut mango flavored Kava liquid dietary supplement contains approximately 1.110 grams (approximately 1 gram) of a vitamin and mineral blend, which makes up 0.3100% of the lite pineapple coconut mango flavored Kava liquid dietary supplement. The vitamins and mineral blend may vary depending upon the application or use of the lite pineapple coconut mango flavored Kava liquid dietary supplement.

[137] The lite pineapple coconut mango flavored Kava liquid dietary supplement contains approximately 1.419 grams (approximately 1.4 grams) of citric acid, which makes up approximately 0.3999% (approximately 0.4%) of lite pineapple coconut mango flavored Kava liquid dietary supplement. Note that the citric acid has a sour taste and is predominantly used as a flavoring and a preserving agent in the lite pineapple coconut mango flavored Kava liquid dietary supplement.

[138] The pineapple coconut mango flavored Kava liquid dietary supplement contains approximately 0.106 grams (approximately 0.1 grams) of Monkfruit extract, which makes up approximately 0.0299 % (approximately 0.03%) of the pineapple coconut mango flavored Kava liquid dietary supplement.

[139] To provide a lite (low sugar or no sugar) pineapple coconut mango flavored Kava liquid dietary supplement with its pineapple coconut mango flavor, flavors are added to the lite base recipe. In the example of the pineapple coconut mango flavored Kava liquid dietary supplement, approximately 0.882 grams (1.0 grams), which is about 0.410g or 0.1155% of the pineapple flavor, 0.224g or 0.21913% of the coconut flavor, and 0.248g or 0.0699% of the mango flavor, of the pineapple coconut mango flavoring that is added to the base formula of the Kava liquid dietary supplement. The pH of the pineapple coconut mango flavored liquid dietary supplement is approximately 3.54 and the Brix is approximately 1.1.

TABLE 6

Kava liquid dietary supplement, lite pineapple coconut mango flavor

[140] All of the above proportions and quantities of ingredients should not be considered limiting as to the scope of the disclosed embodiments as they are provided by way of example only. For instance, in an embodiment, the present invention comprises a dietary supplement (for instance in liquid form) comprising, consisting essentially of, or consisting of a slurry prepared according to the present invention. In an embodiment, the liquid dietary supplement further comprises, consists essentially of, or consists of: about 1-99% water, including for instance about 50-99% water or about 85-99% water or about 95-99% or 95-98% water; and optionally about 0.1-10% cane sugar, including for instance about 1-5% or 2-3% cane sugar; and optionally about 0-0.04% stabilizer, including for instance about 0.001-0.005% stabilizer; and optionally about 0.1-1.0% citric acid, including for instance about 0.2-0.6%; and optionally about 0.01-1.0% vitamins/vitamin blend/mix, including for instance about 0.02-0.8%; and optionally about 0.01-0.5% stevia, including for instance about 0.02-0.2%; and optionally about 0.1-2% flavor, including for instance about 0.25%-l%; and optionally about 0.01-1% color, for instance about 0.1-0.2%; and optionally about 0.01-1% salt, including for instance about 0.02-0.3%. In an embodiment, said liquid dietary supplement comprises about 0.1-1%, for instance about 0.2-0.3%, kava kava root extract (having about 30% kavalactones). In an embodiment, the present invention is a liquid dietary supplement of any one of Examples 1-6 and Tables 1-6, and as otherwise described throughout the application. In an embodiment, a dietary supplement of this invention may comprise ranges of ingredients presented in Tables 1-6 and Examples 1-6. In an embodiment, a dietary supplement of this invention may be in solid form, for instance in the percentages described above, but with a water content of 0-8% or otherwise low enough water content to be in solid form.

[141] In some instances, one or more components may be referred to herein as “configured to,” “configured by,” “configurable to,” “operable/operative to,” “adapted/adaptable,” “able to,” “conformable/conformed to,” etc. Those skilled in the art will recognize that such terms (e.g., “configured to”) generally encompass active-state components and/or inactive-state components and/or standby-state components, unless context requires otherwise.

[142] While particular aspects of the present subject matter described herein have been shown and described, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that, based upon the teachings herein, changes and modifications may be made without departing from the subject matter described herein and its broader aspects and, therefore, the appended claims are to encompass within their scope all such changes and modifications as are within the true spirit and scope of the subject matter described herein.

[143] It will be understood by those within the art that, in general, terms used herein, and especially in the appended claims (e.g., bodies of the appended claims) are generally intended as “open” terms (e.g., the term “including” should be interpreted as “including but not limited to,” the term “having” should be interpreted as “having at least,” the term “includes” should be interpreted as “includes but is not limited to,” etc.). It will be further understood by those within the art that if a specific number of an introduced claim recitation is intended, such an intent will be explicitly recited in the claim, and in the absence of such recitation no such intent is present. For example, as an aid to understanding, the following appended claims may contain usage of the introductory phrases “at least one” and “one or more” to introduce claim recitations. However, the use of such phrases should not be construed to imply that the introduction of a claim recitation by the indefinite articles “a” or “an” limits any particular claim containing such introduced claim recitation to claims containing only one such recitation, even when the same claim includes the introductory phrases “one or more” or “at least one” and indefinite articles such as “a” or “an” (e.g., “a” and/or “an” should typically be interpreted to mean “at least one” or “one or more”); the same holds true for the use of definite articles used to introduce claim recitations. In addition, even if a specific number of an introduced claim recitation is explicitly recited, those skilled in the art will recognize that such recitation should typically be interpreted to mean at least the recited number (e.g., the bare recitation of “two recitations,” without other modifiers, typically means at least two recitations, or two or more recitations). Furthermore, in those instances where a convention analogous to “at least one of A, B, and C, etc.” is used, in general such a construction is intended in the sense one having skill in the art would understand the convention (e.g., “ a system having at least one of A, B, and C” would include but not be limited to systems that have A alone, B alone, C alone, A and B together, A and C together, B and C together, and/or A, B, and C together, etc.). It will be further understood by those within the art that typically a disjunctive word and/or phrase presenting two or more alternative terms, whether in the description, claims, or drawings, should be understood to contemplate the possibilities of including one of the terms, either of the terms, or both terms unless context dictates otherwise. For example, the phrase “A or B” will be typically understood to include the possibilities of “A” or “B” or “A and B.”

[144] With respect to the appended claims, those skilled in the art will appreciate that recited operations therein may generally be performed in any order. Also, although various operational flows are presented in a sequence(s), it should be understood that the various operations may be performed in other orders than those which are illustrated or may be performed concurrently. Examples of such alternate orderings may include overlapping, interleaved, interrupted, reordered, incremental, preparatory, supplemental, simultaneous, reverse, or other variant orderings, unless context dictates otherwise. Furthermore, terms like “responsive to,” “related to,” or other past- tense adjectives are generally not intended to exclude such variants, unless context dictates otherwise.

[145] While the disclosed subject matter has been described in terms of illustrative embodiments, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various modifications can be made thereto without departing from the scope of the claimed subject matter as set forth in the claims.