CBD, Kratom, and Kava are all herbal remedies with a long history of use for promoting health and wellness. These ancient remedies offer a natural solution to pain, anxiety, and insomnia.
Kratom and Kava are known for their mood-lifting and relaxing properties. These plant-based supplements can be consumed in various forms, including raw leaves or processed items. However, despite their similar effects, kratom and kava are distinct and come from different plants, working differently to produce their products. In this article, we will talk about Kratom vs CBD vs Kava and what are their differences.
What Is CBD?
The enigmatic cannabis sativa plant holds within its leaves a treasure trove of potent alkaloids, among which CBD and THC stand out. While THC is infamous for its mind-altering effects, CBD has been making waves in the wellness community for its ability to offer therapeutic benefits without any psychotropic side effects.
Most CBD available today comes from the hemp plant, which undergoes extraction and processing before being transformed into a range of products such as tinctures, capsules, ointments, and even infused edibles. Whether seeking an alternative to THC or a new way to promote wellness, CBD promises to deliver a unique experience.
What Is Kava?
Kava, also known simply as “kava,” is a plant native. In the U.S., it is enjoyed in various forms such as tea, tincture, supplement, and even food. Its properties are known to be non-alcoholic yet mildly psychoactive, thanks to the active ingredient kavalactones, which provides feelings of happiness, calmness, and relaxation.
Kava is used for its relaxing properties, making it a popular alternative to alcohol and marijuana in social settings. It does not make you feel high or drunk but is relatively relaxed, comfortable, and content.
Higher doses of kava can even bring a feeling of euphoria. Additionally, kava has therapeutic benefits, particularly for managing anxiety and insomnia, and works through similar mechanisms as prescription sedatives and anxiolytics, but with much less risk of addiction.
What Is Kratom?
Kratom, a plant belonging to the coffee family, is native to Southeast Asia and has a rich history in traditional culture, where it was often chewed raw to combat exhaustion, relieve pain, and enhance mood. Its botanical name is Mitragyna speciosa.
The leaves of this evergreen tree have been used for centuries to treat various ailments, from physical pain to stomach problems and opioid addiction.
In modern times, kratom is purchased in capsules, powder form, energy drinks, or caffeine. It is also available as a highly concentrated liquid extract and is easy to consume in high doses.
People in the United States and other countries often use kratom recreationally to promote relaxation or medicinally to help with physical and mental health issues and improve well-being.
Despite some concerns about its potential addiction, kratom continues to be exported and sold commercially as a nutritional supplement. The powder form is sometimes made into a tea or mixed into beverages, while the capsule form is preferred by many due to the strong taste of kratom powder.
Legality
Kava and CBD legality vary by jurisdiction, with kava being legal as a supplement in the US but restricted in some states and CBD from hemp being legal under federal law but with potential restrictions at the state level.
Kratom is illegal in the US as a Schedule I substance, but its legal status may change. It’s essential to stay informed of the laws surrounding these substances.
CBD
Cannabidiol, commonly known as CBD, is a naturally occurring compound in the cannabis plant. CBD has gained widespread popularity recently due to its potential health benefits, including reducing anxiety and improving sleep. However, the legality of CBD is a complex and often confusing topic.
In the United States, the legality of CBD is determined by the source of the product. CBD derived from hemp plants is legal under the 2018 Farm Bill, which removed hemp-derived products with a THC concentration of less than 0.3% from the Controlled Substances Act. However, CBD derived from marijuana plants is still illegal under federal law.
Additionally, the legality of CBD can vary from state to state. Some states have legalized marijuana for medical and recreational use, while others have only legalized medical use. Furthermore, some states have enacted laws regarding the sale and use of hemp-derived CBD, creating a patchwork of regulations.
KAVA
Kava, also known as kava-kava, is a plant native to the Pacific. Its root is traditionally used to make a popular drink for its soothing and relaxing effects.
In recent years, kava has gained popularity as a dietary supplement and alternative treatment for anxiety, insomnia, and other conditions. However, the legality of kava can vary depending on the country or jurisdiction in question.
In some countries, kava is legal and readily available in stores and online. For example, kava is considered a dietary supplement in the United States and can be sold without a prescription.
In Australia, kava is classified as a controlled substance and is only available with a prescription from a doctor. In other countries, such as the United Kingdom and Germany, kava is banned outright and cannot be sold or imported for any reason.
KRATOM
Kratom, also known as Mitragyna speciosa, is a plant native to Southeast Asia that has been used for its medicinal properties for centuries. Despite its widespread use in its native region, the legality of kratom has been a subject of much debate in recent years.
In the United States, kratom is currently classified as a “Drug of Concern” by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), meaning that it has the potential for abuse and no accepted medical use. However, kratom has not been banned at the federal level, and its legality varies from state to state.
Some states, such as Alabama, Arkansas, Indiana, Tennessee, and Wisconsin, have banned selling and possessing kratom. In contrast, others, such as Florida, New York, and North Carolina, have no restrictions on its use. In some states, such as California, kratom is legal for adults over 18, but its sale is restricted to certain businesses.
Effects
In today’s fast-paced world, people constantly seek natural alternatives for various physical and mental health concerns. From ancient times to the modern day, plants have been a source of relief and rejuvenation for humans.
Kratom, Kava, and CBD are three plants recently recognized for their unique properties and effects. Kratom is a tropical tree originating from Southeast Asia, Kava is a root grown in the South Pacific, and CBD is found in the hemp plant.
Each of these substances has distinct effects on the body and mind, making them popular choices for those seeking a more natural approach to wellness.
CBD
Cannabidiol, commonly known as CBD, is a natural compound in the hemp plant that has gained popularity due to its therapeutic effects. CBD does not produce the “high” commonly associated with cannabis use. Instead, it offers a range of health benefits that have been shown to improve many people’s lives.
One of the most significant effects of CBD is its ability to reduce anxiety and promote relaxation. This is due to its interaction with the body’s endocannabinoid system, which regulates many processes, including mood, sleep, and appetite.
In clinical studies, CBD has been shown to reduce symptoms of anxiety disorders such as generalized anxiety disorder, social anxiety disorder, and post-traumatic stress disorder.
In addition to its anxiolytic effects, CBD has been shown to have pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory properties. This makes it an effective treatment for various conditions such as arthritis, multiple sclerosis, and chronic pain. CBD works by interacting with the body’s endocannabinoid system to reduce the perception of pain and also by suppressing inflammation at the source.
Another key benefit of CBD is its ability to promote sleep and combat insomnia. This is because it promotes relaxation and reduces anxiety, two key factors contributing to sleep disturbances. By helping people get a better night’s sleep, CBD can improve their overall quality of life and reduce the risk of developing sleep-related conditions such as sleep apnea.
KAVA
Kava, also known as kava-kava, is a beverage or extract made from the kava plant’s roots, which are indigenous to the Pacific. The effects of kava are unique and have been used for centuries in traditional cultures for their calming and relaxing properties.
Consuming kava can relax, calm, and contentment and decrease anxiety, stress, and muscle tension. The active compounds in kava, called kavalactones, are believed to be responsible for these effects. Unlike alcohol or other drugs, kava does not impair cognitive function or motor skills, making it a popular alternative for those seeking to relax without losing control.
Kava has also been found to have mild analgesic properties, making it helpful in managing mild to moderate pain. Some people also report using kava as a sleep aid, as it can promote feelings of drowsiness and improve the quality of sleep.
KRATOM
Kratom, or Mitragyna speciosa, is a tropical evergreen tree native to Southeast Asia. Its leaves have been used for centuries for their potent medicinal properties, including as a pain reliever, mood enhancer, and means of overcoming addiction.
One of the unique effects of Kratom is its ability to act as both a stimulant and a sedative, depending on the dose consumed. Kratom can boost energy, improve mental alertness, and increase sociability in small amounts. It can produce a calming effect in larger quantities, helping to alleviate anxiety, stress, and even depression.
Kratom is also known for its pain-relieving effects. Its active compounds, including mitragynine and 7-hydroxy mitragynine, interact with the brain’s opioid receptors to produce a natural analgesic effect. This makes Kratom a popular alternative for those seeking relief from chronic pain, arthritis, and other conditions.
What are the Dangers of Using CBD, KAVA, and KRATOM?
Herbal supplements like CBD, kratom, and kava are commonly perceived as safe and natural simply because they are derived from plants and are legal. However, it is essential to remember that these products are not without risks and come with specific warnings.
These supplements belong to an unregulated and under-researched industry. So, it’s crucial to be vigilant when purchasing, selling, or trading these products and carefully evaluate their safety and legal advisories. Also, be cautious about sourcing raw materials to prevent contamination, fraudulent products, and regulatory fines.
Kratom, in particular, has garnered attention from the DEA and the FDA due to its potential for addiction and overdose. While kratom is derived from a plant, it is an opioid-like substance.
A recent CDC analysis revealed 91 cases of kratom-related deaths in a sample of 27,000, a significant increase from previous data reported by the FDA. The risk of overdose is also believed to escalate when kratom is combined with other illicit drugs. Unfortunately, the FDA does not regulate kratom, so its purity is uncertain. Other adverse effects of kratom use include hallucinations, seizures, sweating, dry mouth, constipation, increased urination, and nausea.
Differences Between Kratom vs CBD, CBD vs Kava
Regarding therapeutic remedies, Kratom and CBD are often mentioned in the same breath. Both have been used to address various health issues, from drug use to withdrawal symptoms.
However, there’s a significant difference in how these two remedies interact with the body. While CBD works primarily with the endocannabinoid system, Kratom affects the opioid receptors in the brain. It’s worth noting that Kratom’s effects on the brain make it both impairing and addictive, whereas CBD has been proven to be non-addictive and non-psychotropic.
While Kratom does have therapeutic benefits, the lack of research on the plant makes it difficult to support these claims.
On the other hand, CBD has a wealth of scientifically backed evidence, thanks in part to the surge of interest following the 2018 Farm Bill. In contrast, Kratom’s legal status has limited research on the plant.
In terms of usage, Kratom and Kava have different purposes. Kratom is often used as a stimulant or pain reliever, while Kava is more commonly used for relaxation, stress relief, and insomnia.
Both are considered legal at a federal level, but some states have banned Kratom, making it illegal to sell, grow, possess, or use. Meanwhile, Kava is legal in all 50 states and is widely available in grocery stores and pharmacies.
While the two remedies share some similarities, they differ in their origin and the way they produce effects. Kratom and Kava come from different plant families and interact with the brain differently.
This is due to the unique chemical makeup of the two remedies. Kratom contains alkaloids, which interact with the opioid systems in the brain and can cause similar effects to opiate drugs, making it potentially addictive. On the other hand, Kava contains kavalactones, which interact with the limbic system and do not pose the risk of addiction.
Can You Get Addicted to CBD, Kava, and Kratom?
Addiction is a complex issue that can arise from using various substances, including some natural remedies like CBD, kava, and kratom. While these substances are often marketed as safe and effective alternatives to traditional medications, they can still have addictive properties and lead to negative consequences when abused.
CBD, or cannabidiol, is a compound found in the hemp plant that has been touted for its potential benefits for anxiety, pain, and other health conditions. However, some people can become addicted to CBD, mainly if they use high doses or take it regularly for extended periods. Symptoms of CBD addiction can include irritability, restlessness, and difficulty sleeping.
Kava, a plant native to the South Pacific, is commonly used as a natural remedy for anxiety, stress, and insomnia. While kava has been traditionally used for medicinal purposes for centuries, it can be addictive when consumed in large amounts. Symptoms of kava addiction include cravings, withdrawal symptoms, and impaired judgment.
Kratom, a plant native to Southeast Asia, is commonly used as a natural remedy for pain, anxiety, and depression. It works by altering the brain’s opioid receptors, which can lead to feelings of euphoria and relaxation. However, like other substances that target opioid receptors, kratom can be addictive. Symptoms of kratom addiction include cravings, withdrawal symptoms, and decreased overall quality of life.
Conclusion
As the interest in alternative health solutions like kava, CBD, and kratom continues to grow, there is hope that further research into their long-term effects will be conducted. Of these, kratom holds great potential, as it may soon become a common sight on pharmacies and store shelves.
If you’re considering starting a business selling kratom, finding a merchant service provider with experience working with high-risk industries is essential.
When choosing between kava and kratom, it’s essential to understand their differences. Kratom, unfortunately, can be addictive, and its use is becoming increasingly regulated in the U.S. On the other hand, kava is not addictive, and there are no restrictions on its active ingredients. For this reason, we recommend choosing kava over kratom.
