King Charles guzzles shamanic psychoactive brew to become new ‘High Chief’

There’s a new “Tui Taumeasina” (High Chief) in the Samoan village of Moata’a, and it’s none other than King Charles. Not content with his titles as Monarch of the United Kingdom, King of Canada, Defender of the Faith, and Head of the Commonwealth, Charles now adds “High Chief” of Moata’a to his growing list of honors. And yes, this honor was sealed with a potent dose of kava, a traditional Samoan ceremonial drink with mildly psychoactive effects.

During the ceremony, King Charles was given kava prepared traditionally by the chief’s daughter, served in a polished half-coconut shell. In line with custom, a Samoan man let out a ritual shout as Charles lifted the drink. Then, with a hearty “God bless this ava!” the King downed it — perhaps getting more than he bargained for from this Pacific island rite.

Kava’s effects are well-documented on sites like Erowid, with users often reporting sensations of physical relaxation, mild euphoria, and a bit of disorientation. Some describe feeling “glued to the bed,” while others say it leaves them feeling a bit like “a zombie.” For Charles, it was all in stride, and he carried on with a spirited discussion with local chief Lenatai Victor Tamapua about climate change and its effects on local mangrove ecosystems.

Following the ceremony, Charles, slightly kava-sedated but unfazed, met with local students and continued his official duties. Rumors that ambient music drifted from his room after the event remain unconfirmed.

Charles’ kava adventure comes as part of his three-day trip to Samoa, following a lively six-day visit to Australia that included some memorable moments, like getting startled by an alpaca and a brisk 10-minute departure from an event. Despite his brush with kava’s effects, it seems the king’s new chiefdom and cross-cultural experience were met with applause from both the Samoan locals and Queen Camilla, who cheered him on through his latest title as “high chief” of Moata’a.