Is kava a drug?

Could you please clarify for me whether kava should be categorized as a drug? I've heard varying opinions about this matter and I'm genuinely interested in understanding the truth. From my limited understanding, kava seems to be used for relaxation and social occasions, but does this automatically make it a drug? I'm also curious about its potential side effects and whether it's safe for long-term use. Could you provide some insight into these questions? Thank you in advance for your assistance.