3 Things You Need to Know About Kratom vs. Kava

If you’re familiar with kava, then you’ve probably heard the word ‘kratom’ pop up at kava bars and stores. Kratom is the buzz word that is prevalent in kava culture.

Maybe both of these names are new to you, but you’ve seen the trends towards these plants rise and you’re interested in knowing more.

Here you’ll learn everything about kratom vs kava.

Kratom and Kava Explained

These plants share some similar qualities but are quite different. Let’s dive deeper into the differences between the kava root and the kratom leaves that have become popular for holistic use.

Kratom

Kratom is an evergreen tree in the coffee family that is native to Southeast Asia. For thousands of years, the plant has been entrenched in traditional cultures and rituals as a mood enhancer.

Traditionally it’s consumed through chewing, however more recently it is available in tea, powder, capsules, and more.

Nowadays, kratom is used recreationally for improved relaxation or for a variety of mental and physical health issues. Kratom is illegal in a couple of states and is on the DEA ‘drugs of concern’ list.

Check out The Kratom Connection to explore kratom products.

Kava

Kava is a plant of the pepper family that is native to the Western Pacific. It is traditionally consumed during religious rituals and ceremonies. The tea comes from the root of the plant but is available in the U.S in powder and capsules.

Increasing research has shown kava to be effective in reducing stress, anxiety, and managing pain. Kava is legal in the U.S. and can be purchased online or at a number of specialty stores.

Kava vs Kratom High

Both of these plants are ground into tea and have historically been used during celebrations to produce a euphoric effect. Both kava and kratom can increase energy levels and reduce stress.

Kava stimulates the dopamine receptors and can result in reduced social inhibitions and a sense of euphoria.

The three categories of Kava have different effects. Heady varieties create a calming effect and increased energy levels. Heavy kavas work more like a sedative and balanced kavas have a mixed effect.

Kratom, on the other hand, stimulates the mu and delta-opioid receptors producing a morphine-like effect. This is akin to an opioid high and it has psychoactive consequences.

In small doses, it makes people more talkative and socially hyperactive. In larger doses, it leads to a sedated, dream-like state. Kratom is an addictive substance whereas kava is not.

Mixing Kratom and Kava

Drinking the two together creates a strong effect of intense euphoria and can work to reduce anxiety and improve cognition.

However, excessive dosages can cause serious health complications. It is not advised to drink a high dose of kratom and kava mix.

Mixing the two plants can have serious, and sometimes lethal, consequences that don’t outweigh the benefits of taking the two together.

Kratom vs Kava: Know the Difference

They’re both derived from plant sources, have similar-sounding names and ancient histories.

When looking at kratom vs kava, you can see that kava seems to be a healthier, non-addictive plant source for calming an anxiety-reducing effects. Kratom acts more like a sedative and can be addictive.

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