Kava root and Kratom both are useful plants for contrast studies. Both of them are famous for recreational and euphoric effects. They reduce the stress and help in pain management.
They are historically significant, but the recent research proved their potential in detail. These studies helped the world to know the benefits they offer.
With recent advancements, use of herbal products has become popular. People regard all organic solutions as safe and risk-free.
Kava and Kratom both provide many benefits with similarities and differences. The choice of using one is a difficult decision. People often confuse these two.
This article will provide a detailed explanation of both plants so that you can understand the functioning of each one.
What is kava?
Kava, also known as Kava-Kava is a plant root which is known as Piper methysticum botanically. It is a native species of South Pacific Islands i.e. Polynesia, Micronesia, Fiji, etc.
The people of these islands are using it in medicines and celebratory drinks for long.
A moderate amount of Kava produces the mild stimulant effect. This feeling is same as that of diazepam (valium).
The calming effect also prevents convulsions and release muscular strain. It is not addictive like other drugs.
The effect becomes higher with the increase in quantity. Kava is available in the form of tincture, powder and dietary supplements (capsules).
What is kratom?
Kratom is another beneficial plant. It is called Mitragyna speciosa in scientific language, and it belongs to the coffee family.
Kratom grows naturally in Indonesia, Malaysia and some other parts of Southeast Asia.
Kratom leaves have a high alkaloid count which makes it potential. It initiates mild calming and euphoric effects. These effects are less than opiates.
The only high dosage of Kratom can induce these effects. In minor quantity, it initiates analgesic and relaxing effects.
Kava vs. Kratom – which one is better?
Studying the differences and similarities between Kratom and Kava is important. So that one can analyze the most appropriate herb for himself.
Similarities between kratom and kava
- Similar type
Kratom is a tropical evergreen tree which belongs to the coffee family. Chewing its leaves stimulate relaxing effects.
The raw leaf is used to process and make Kratom powered and dietary supplements for oral use only.
Kava is a plant from pepper family. Kava Root makes a delicious and heavenly drink which is popular for its effects.
- Similar effects
Kava and Kratom both have soothing effects and both are used to make festive drinks. These drinks are the healthy alternative to alcohol with fewer side effects.
- Dosage dependency
In minor/ lower quantities, both Kava and Kratom can help to ease pain and elevate energy levels. At higher dosage, they initiate stimulating effects. It suggests that both of these plants are dosage dependent for their effects.
Differences between kratom and kava
Kava and Kratom both have same effects but there are some differences too.
- Pharmacological differences
Kratom has many alkaloids such as mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine which interact with the opioid system of the brain. This opioid system controls the pain sensations. So alkaloids of Kratom work as morphine for the body.
Pharmacologically, Kratom is not an opiate, but it can produce similar effects in high dosage. This higher dosage can be addictive.
Kava is a less studied plant, and there is as such no research study available on it.
The main ingredients of Kava are Kavalactones. These Kavalactones can interact with the limbic system.
The limbic system is the part of the human brain which controls emotions and feelings. It is also responsible for stress, depression, and anxiety.
Kavalactones are not opiate, and there is absolutely no addiction of Kava reported.
- Different mode of action
Kratom targets Opioid receptors to help in pain. It also stimulates serotonin and norepinephrine receptors. Kava only stimulates dopamine receptors.
- The legal status
Kratom is a heated topic of discussion among people worldwide. The sedative effects face criticism by some of the people. It faces a ban in some countries. It was not legal in Thailand for more than 70 years.
In 2011, around 13,000 people were a victim of Kratom related crimes, e.g., illegal cultivation, trade, etc.
The recent years have removed this ban, and people started knowing the benefits of it.
On the other hand, Kava is a traditional herb around the world. It is known as a safe herb.
There is no linkage between law and Kava; even it is popular in the US without any legal ban.
Combination of kratom and kava
Kratom and Kava use the different mode of action, but they can provide same results. Both of them target different regions of the brain. Combining both will lead into a high profile stimulant.
The effect will increase by double. But the dosage is a risky thing. One should always be careful when combining two potential herbs.
How to make a selection?
Kava and Kratom both are highly potential plants. A standard comparison is obvious when we talk about the strengths and perspective of both these herbs. They are equally appealing and useful.
Kratom tea is a popular drink across the globe. Kava drink is famous for mood improvement and boosting sociability.
Both have a different mechanism of action. Because of this, some individuals experiment between two and by combining it.
To make a selection from Kava and Kratom, one should know the details of both. The purpose for which you require them is also important.
Dosage, regularity, and frequency of usage are also a few measure which decides a suitable herb for you.
An extensive study before using any herb is helpful to decide the best for you.
The final word
Kava and Kratom are equally beneficial in multiple ways. The selection between two is usually a personal preference, however, one must study the details of each plant before trying it. It will not only help to make a right choice but also tell you the working of it.
