Kava vs Kratom: How Different Are They?
Kava and kratom are often compared because of their relaxing effects. But they are very different in how they work, their risks, and their benefits.
One comes from the Pacific Islands. The other comes from Southeast Asia. One is legal everywhere in the U.S. The other faces bans in several states.
If you’ve ever wondered about the difference between kava and kratom, this blog will break it all down.
What is Kava?
The Piper methysticum plant produces kava which extraction occurs from its roots. Kava Plant has its native origins in Pacific Island territories such as Fiji and Vanuatu and Tonga.
People on islands have practiced kava usage for their ceremonies and public social occasions for centuries. People acknowledge this substance for it reduces stress and creates a calming effect.
How People Use Kava
Most people enjoy kava as an oral beverage. The ground Kava root powder is mixed with either coconut milk or water. Others choose to take kava through capsules along with extracts when taking supplements.
Kava serves as a social beverage throughout American kava bars because consumers use it to relax without creating the same intoxicating impact of alcohol.
Effects of Kava
People commonly consume Kava because it creates relaxation while reducing stress and improving their ability to sleep better. The supplement interacts with the brain to loop in with neurotransmitter processes like standard anti-anxiety medications do.
People often report feeling:
- Calm and relaxed
- Less anxious
- The intake of high doses may lead to sleepiness and drowsiness.
Is Kava Safe?
The use of kava remains safe for most individuals when consumed in moderate amounts. Excessive consumption of Kava or taking high doses might lead to liver problems. Some users also report:
- Nausea
- Dizziness
- Dry skin (with frequent use)
Using kava properly together with avoiding alcohol consumption and medication is the safest approach to ensure protection.
What is Kratom?
The Mitragyna speciosa tree exists in Southeast Asia as the natural source of Kratom. The leaves of this plant contain substances which modify brain function.
At different levels of consumption kratom functions as either a stimulant or sedative agent.
How People Use Kratom
The different use forms of kratom include the mixture of powder with both juice and water and the use of capsules and tablets along with tea preparation and liquid extract brewing. People use kratom to manage their pain needs and others depend on its energizing properties for daily activities. A top-level dose of kratom functions as a relaxing substance that produces euphoria alongside sedation.
Effects of Kratom
Kratom’s effects vary with dosage. In low doses, it boosts energy, focus, and alertness, similar to coffee. Medium doses create mild euphoria and pain relief. High doses lead to sedation and opioid-like effects, making users feel deeply relaxed. The impact depends on the strain, individual tolerance, and overall usage.
Is Kratom Safe?
Kratom is controversial because of its potential risks. While some people use it for pain or anxiety, others develop dependence.
Possible side effects include:
- Nausea
- Dizziness
- Constipation
- Increased urination
- Addiction and withdrawal symptoms
Kratom is also linked to overdose cases, especially when mixed with other substances.
Key Differences Between Kava and Kratom
| Feature | Kava | Kratom |
|---|---|---|
| Plant Type | Root of a pepper plant | Leaves of a tree |
| Origin | Pacific Islands | Southeast Asia |
| Effects | Relaxing, calming, anti-anxiety | Stimulant at low doses, sedative at high doses |
| Uses | Social drink, stress relief, sleep aid | Pain relief, energy boost, relaxation |
| Legal Status | Legal everywhere in the U.S. | Banned in some states |
| Addiction Risk | Very low | Can be addictive |
| Side Effects | Liver concerns (long-term use), nausea, dizziness | Nausea, dizziness, withdrawal symptoms, potential for overdose |
Why People Choose Kava Over Kratom
Many people choose kava over kratom because it offers relaxation without the risk of addiction. Unlike kratom, kava is non-addictive, widely legal, and primarily used for stress relief and anxiety reduction.
1. Safer and Natural Relaxation
Kava naturally promotes relaxation without clouding your mind. You stay in control, and there’s no risk of serious side effects.
2. No Risk of Dependence
Unlike kratom, kava does not affect opioid receptors. This means no risk of addiction. You can enjoy it without worrying about withdrawal.
3. Traditional and Social
Kava has a rich cultural history. It has been used for centuries to bring people together. At Green Turtle Kava, we continue this tradition.
4. Better for Everyday Use
You can drink kava and still go about your day. It won’t make you overly tired or wired. It’s perfect for unwinding without losing focus.
Conclusion
Both kava and kratom come from plants, but their effects and risks are very different. Kava is a traditional drink used for relaxation and social bonding. It has fewer risks but should be used in moderation. Kratom is more potent and acts on the brain in a way similar to opioids. It has a higher potential for dependence and side effects.
If you’re considering either, make sure to do your research and choose what aligns best with your health and wellness goals.
Want to experience the relaxing benefits of kava? Visit Green Turtle Kava today!
Frequently Asked Questions
What drug is kava similar to?
Kava is similar to benzodiazepines in its calming effects, but it works differently. It promotes relaxation and reduces anxiety without causing strong sedation or addiction.
Does kava get you stoned?
Kava does not produce a stoned feeling like cannabis. Instead, it creates mild euphoria, relaxation, and reduced anxiety without impairing cognitive function or coordination.
What is the most euphoric kava?
Noble kava strains, like Borogu or Vanuatu kava, are considered the most euphoric. They provide relaxation, mood enhancement, and mental clarity without excessive sedation.
Is kava worse for the liver than alcohol?
Kava can cause liver issues in rare cases, but alcohol is more damaging long-term. Heavy alcohol use leads to liver disease, while moderate kava use is generally safer.
Can I drink kava daily?
Daily kava consumption is possible in moderate amounts. However, excessive use may cause liver stress, so it’s best to take breaks and monitor health effects.