With growing interest in herbal solutions for discomfort and mood management, two names often come up: kava and kratom. Both have attracted the natural wellness-loving community seeking natural alternatives for relaxation and wellness. You will find them online and in specialty stores. Revered for their mood-altering and sedative properties, kava and kratom plants are used to manufacture various product types.
However, many believe that kava and kratom are similar, which they are not. In this blog post, we will explore how they compare and give you insights to help you figure out which one is best for your needs.
What Is Kava?
Piper methysticum, generally known as kava, is a plant native to the South Pacific islands like Samoa, Tonga, Fiji, and Vanuatu. For centuries, it has been used traditionally in Polynesian cultures for various ceremonies and rituals; the plant’s roots were used to make a drink.
Kava has an earthy and slightly bitter taste. Its effects can be anywhere from mildly relaxing to sedating, depending on the dose. The plant’s potential sedative and anesthetic properties are believed to interact with the brain’s neurotransmitter gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), making you feel sedated or relaxed.
What is Kratom?
Mitragyna speciosa, or kratom, is a tropical tree native to Southeast Asian regions like Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand, and Papua New Guinea. Kratom leaves have been used for centuries for medicinal purposes.
Kratom leaves are said to contain various active compounds, such as mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine. The leaves are dried and ground to make powders, which can be mixed into food or drinks or encapsulated for convenience.
Kratom has different types, and each has its own set of effects. Its specialty is its stimulating and sedative effects, which depend on the dosage. Kratom leaves have been traditionally used to manage discomfort and fatigue and boost vitality.
Kava and Kratom: Similarities
- Natural Agitation Relievers: Both kava and kratom have been said to alleviate feelings of agitation and sensory overload.
- Relaxation Stimulants: Both are believed to have muscle-relaxing effects that may ease fatigue and soothe sore joints.
Kava vs. Kratom: Differences
- How They Work: Kava typically works on GABA receptors to produce calming effects, while kratom interacts with the brain’s opioid receptors.
- Influence on Sleep: Kava is used to enhance restful nights, as it may reduce agitation and promote relaxation. Kratom, at lower doses, works as a stimulant, which can keep you up if taken before bedtime.
Kava and kratom are two different herbs with different effects. Kava is mainly used to relax and achieve mental clarity. Some use it for restful nights. Kratom, on the other hand, stimulates the mind in low doses and sedates it in higher doses. It may also help reduce physical discomfort.
How to Take Kava and Kratom?
You can take kava and kratom however you like. If you have no issues with earthy, bitter-tasting kratom powder, you may opt for that. If you’re looking for a more convenient, hassle-free way to enjoy the benefits boosted with delicious flavors, try our Stick Pack Drink Mixes. They come in a wide variety of your favorite flowers and are easy to pour, stir, and enjoy in drinks.
Now, let’s talk about dosage.
Kava: There is no specific serving size for every individual, but the recommended daily dosage for kava is usually between 70 and 250 mg of kavalactones. Starting with the lowest dose and adjusting as needed is the best way to go. This works best for those who want kava for resting or getting rid of agitation. Our Kava Stick Packs contain a balanced, safe dose to help you unwind.
Kratom: Kratom necessitates consumption in moderation and periodically. For low doses, you may go with 1-5 grams, which will offer stimulating effects. If you seek sedation, higher doses of 5-15 grams will do the trick. Our Kratom Stick Packs offer quick, mess-free relief with pre-measured doses—just tear, mix, and sip anytime.
Conclusion
Kava and kratom have been shown to possess promising wellness benefits, even though many use them recreationally. However, they haven’t been approved for medical use nor regulated, so it is recommended to use them moderately. You may even consult your healthcare provider before adding them to your routine.
