Guide to Kava and Kratom. What is the Difference Between Kava vs Kratom?

What Is Kratom?

In Western Countries like the US, Kratom is sold as an herbal supplement. This supplement takes the form of powders or liquid extracts. But, in Southeast Asia — where Kratom is originally from — the leaves are brewed into tea or chewed on like tobacco.

People say Kratom might ease withdrawal, primarily from opioids. However, the US FDA has not given its official nod for Kratom to be used this way. Still, you can find Kratom being sold legally in some US states, hanging out on the shelves labeled as an herbal supplement. It can also sometimes be found in specialty smoke shops.

The current lack of research has placed Kratom in the category of being unpredictable and unreliable. Picture it as a scientific puzzle with some missing pieces.

Some states in the US have taken a cautious stance. They have set up specific rules and restrictions on the buying and selling of Kratom, like a regulatory safety net.

Meanwhile, other states have taken a more decisive step, choosing to ban Kratom outright, perhaps opting for the “better safe than sorry” approach in the absence of complete scientific certainty. It’s like a cautious response to the unknowns, with regulators taking steps until we have a clearer picture of what Kratom does and its potential risks.

What Is Kava?

Kava, derived from the kava plant’s roots, originates from the pepper family and is indigenous to regions in the Pacific Islands, such as Fiji and Indonesia. People use the kava root to craft various teas and juices. Restaurants and bars blend it with water or coconut milk to produce beverages enjoyed socially or recreationally.

Kava is a significant component of ceremonial rituals in its native regions. It is also utilized as a medicinal herb in those communities.

In the United States, Kava is commonly consumed as a tea, a supplement, or an added ingredient in specific baked goods. Those grappling with anxiety or insomnia often turn to kava for relief because of its soothing effects.

Difference Between Kava And Kratom

Is Kava And Kratom The Same Thing?

Ultimately, Kava and Kratom are two entirely separate plants and drugs. Do not let their similarities confuse you.

• Plant species and family: Kratom, part of the coffee family, is a tree with the scientific name Mitragyna speciosa. On the other hand, Kava, belonging to the pepper family, is a shrub known as Piper methysticum.
• Focal part of the plant: Each supplement’s main ingredient focuses on the different parts of these plants. For Kratom, it’s all about the leaves—they go through a process to create the supplement. On the flip side, Kava takes things underground, literally. The key player is the shrub’s roots used to make the supplement.
• General Usage:

Kava And Kratom Effects

Kratom Effects

Kratom is thought to have opioid-like effects due to the way Kratom’s chemical compounds interact with the human body. This interaction usually produces an overall soothing effect. As mentioned above, research is still being done to confirm and explore the effects of Kratom.

• Pain Relief.
• Mood Enhancement.
• Stimulation.
• Relaxation and Sedation.
• Improved Focus and Concentration.
• Euphoria.
• Appetite Suppression.

Kava Effects

As a depressant, Kava is distinct. Instead of heightening alertness or inducing hallucinations, Kava promotes relaxation. It’s akin to hitting the brakes on the hyperactivity of the nervous system, leading to a state of calmness without the stimulating effects associated with other drug categories.

• Relaxation.
• Mood Enhancement.
• Anxiety Reduction.
• Improved Sleep.
• Social Relaxation.
• Mild Sedation.
• Enhanced Sociability.
• Mental Clarity.

Learn More:

• Is Kratom Legal? Kratom Legality And Where It Is Legal.
• Is Kratom Safe? Benefits And Risks Of Using Kratom.
• Kratom Side Effects Long-Term And Short-Term Side Effects.
• How Long Does Kratom Last In Your System? Kratom Half Life.
• Is Kratom An Opioid? Can You Use Kratom For Opioid Withdrawal?
• Risks And Effects Of Kratom Addiction. Is Kratom Addictive?
• Kratom Withdrawal Symptoms, Timeline, Dangers, And Detox
• Kratom Overdose Symptoms, Factors, And Treatment.
• Kratom And Alcohol. Can You Mix Kratom And Alcohol?

Dangers of Kratom

Kratom stands as a unique yet potentially risky player. This botanical substance is known for its opiate-like effects, but the allure of relief comes hand-in-hand with notable risks. From the potential for dependency to concerns about liver issues, Kratom comes with a set of complexities that one should be aware of.

• Risk of Dependency.
• General And Liver Health Concerns.
• Lack of Regulation.
• Interaction with Medications.
• Cognitive Effects.
• Gastrointestinal Issues.
• Respiratory Issues
• Negative Effects On Mental Health.
• Contaminated Batches.
• Legal Issues Within and Outside the US.

Dangers of Kava

Kava has found cultural use as a calming beverage. Still, simplicity doesn’t necessarily mean safety. Beneath its laid-back reputation are potential risks like liver damage.

• Potential for Hepatotoxicity (In the liver).
• Quality and Source Concerns.
• Interaction with Medications.
• Allergic Reactions.
• Sedation and Impaired Reflexes.
• Pregnancy Concerns.
• Central Nervous System Depression.
• Legal Restrictions in Different Countries.