Kratom and Kava are herbal supplements extracted from plants and have soothing effects on the brain. People throughout the world are using Kratom and Kava interchangeably due to their similarities. However, despite having some similarities, there are vast differences between them. Kratom and Kava are extracted from plants, and they both can produce feelings of relaxation, reduce stress levels, and improve sleep abilities. Due to some similarities in their effects on human bodies, people are now wondering which one is better. This informational blog will shed details on Kratom and Kava and their potential benefits and risks.
What is Kratom?
Kratom is an herbal supplement that is extracted from the plant Mitragyna speciosa. People from Southeast Asia have been using this tree for centuries. People in the United States are using Kratom for self-treating pain and mood disorders. Mitragynine and 7-hydroxy mitragynine are considered to be the main pharmacological active components. They have effects similar to those of morphine and heroin.
What is Kratom Used For?
Although not approved by the US Food and Drug Administration in some US states, people are utilizing Kratom to manage drug withdrawal symptoms, cravings, and mental health problems. ® In addition, people around the world are also using Kratom to treat gastrointestinal issues, including stomach and intestine infections.
Many people have reported that Kratom also aids in reducing muscle and joint pain. Not only this, but it also helps increase sexual libido. Moreover, Kratom is also used as a numbing agent for treating wounds and lacerations. However, it is suggested that you seek a consultation with your doctor before using it for any purpose.
Note: All the products on our Kratom website are for research purposes only. They are not for human or animal use.
What is Kava?
Kava is a beverage extracted from the ground roots of the plant Piper Methysticum. This plant belongs to the family of peppers, including black pepper. People from the South Pacific have been using Kava for centuries as a drink or as a supplement. Kava contains a group of substances known as Kavalactones. They bind to GABA receptors in our brain, which helps reduce anxiety.
What is Kava Used For?
People in the Pacific have been using kava as a ceremonial drink for centuries. Some people have also reported that Kava has an almost similar test to alcohol. It elevates the mood and produces a feeling of relaxation.
In addition, various studies have also found that it can be effective if used for treating symptoms associated with anxiety. Similarly, one study found that after one week of using Kava, the anxiety patients’ condition improved. ( R)
On the other side, some reports have also suggested that Kava has increased liver toxicity. However, it has not been medically proven yet and needs more studies to clarify things
Consult your doctor before using Kava for any purposes.
What are the differences between Kratom and Kava?
Origin
Traditionally, people from the South Pacific have been using Kava as a ceremonial drink and for gathering. While people from Southeast Asia use Kratom as a stimulant and pain reliever.
Pharmacological
Another key difference between Kratom and Kava is that Kratom is addictive, while Kava is not. This difference is because of their interaction with the brain and their pharmacology. The alkaloids in Kratom, along with some other receptors, also react with the brain opioid receptor. This reaction affects the brain’s activities regarding how it responds to pain. Just like morphine, they act as opiate receptor agonists. Although the alkaloids in Kratom are not opiates, they have similar effects to opiate drugs.
The pharmacology of Kava is quite different from Kratom. Kava contains kavalactones, which connect with GABA receptors in the brain and act as a nervous system depressant. Kava might have negative effects on the body if taken in combination with other psychoactive drugs. People who are constantly using Kava might face breathing difficulties.
Effects
Generally, Kava has sedative, anxiolytic, and muscle-relaxing effects on the body. In contrast, Kratom, if used in a low dosage, has stimulant effects, increasing energy and focus. On the other side, if Kratom is used in a high dosage, it has opioid-like effects of pain relief and drowsiness.
Risks
People who use Kava more frequently for a long time may face problems like sensitivity to light, liver damage, kidney damage, and appetite loss.
On the other side, Kratom has a higher risk of addiction and dependency. It can also cause withdrawal symptoms and respiratory problems.
Legality
While Kava remains legal and unregulated in all 50 US states, Kratom faces legal restrictions in several states. Here is a list to check the legality of Kratom in different US States.
Kratom or Kava: Which one is better?
It is quite difficult to answer this question in a single word. Both Kratom and Kava have their benefits and risks. To be on the safe side, whether Kratom is better or Kava depends on individual needs and priorities. But before using either Kratom or Kava for medical purposes, it is better to get a consultation from a health professional.
What is the Most active form of Kava?
Kava exists in various forms, like powder, extracts, and tea. Kava with a high amount of Kavalactones is considered the most active form of Kava. Fresh green kava is considered the most potent form of kava as it contains kavalactones up to 18%.
Kratom or Kava—which one is better for pain relief?
Determining whether Kratom is better for pain relief or Kava depends on the type of pain. Traditionally, people use Kava for pain, muscle aches, tension headaches, and general migraines. Conversely, Kratom is generally used as a stimulant and acute pain reliever. Before using Kratom or Kava for pain relief, you should better consult with a medical professor.
How long do the Kava Drinks effects last on our bodies?
The effects of Kava drinks on our bodies depend on the type of Kava drink you prepare and how you prepare it. Generally speaking, the euphoric effects of Kava can be felt from 1 to 3 hours. ®
Can I Take Kava every night?
Experts generally recommend that you not take more than 250 milligrams of Kava per day. In addition, they also advise that a person should not use it for more than 3 months daily. This is because they consider that frequently taking Kava might damage the liver.
Note: Seek help from your medical professional before using Kava.
Is kava better for your liver than alcohol?
The comparison of the effects of Kava and alcohol on the liver is not something white and black. Kava, when used in moderate quantities, is somewhat less harmful than drinking alcohol. Similarly, Kava extracted through water is generally considered safer than acetonic or alcoholic-based Kava. Can you become addicted to Kava and Kratom?
Kava is considered safe, and no evidence shows its addictive effects. However, people with a history of substance abuse and those who take high doses of Kratom are at risk of addiction to Kratom.
Final Thoughts
Kratom and Kava both have benefits and side effects. People around the world have been using these products for centuries. Due to concerns about Kratom’s addictive effects, some countries around the world have banned its use. Whether you are using Kratom and Kava for sleeping or some other purposes, you should first contact your doctor for better use.
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