ASHWAGANDHA AND KRATOM: THE SIMILARITIES, DIFFERENCES, AND POSSIBLE INTERACTIONS

Public awareness of herbal treatments is growing, with more natural options available for wellness support. Many of these plants are even used together to complement each other’s effects. Ashwagandha and Kratom are two such herbs that may work well when combined.

What is kratom?

Kratom spent plenty of time in the public eye in recent decades. Not all attention was positive, either: there were many misconceptions and false accusations surrounding the herb. So, let’s start with a clean slate and introduce it from scratch.

Kratom is an evergreen tree from the Southeast Asian coffee family. It originates from Indonesia, Thailand, Myanmar, Malaysia, and Papua New Guinea. Its official biology name is Mitragyna speciosa.

The leaves contain alkaloids that interact with the body, giving them a bitter, herbal aroma. These alkaloids contribute to Kratom’s unique effects, which are often sought for energy, relaxation, and general well-being.

Ancient users chewed the leaves or brewed them into tea. The dried leaf is also available to Western shoppers, as well as kratom capsules and powders.

Due to its double-duty properties, kratom is potentially valuable to various demographics. Let’s explore the effects in more depth.

Kratom effects

Kratom’s effects vary depending on the strain and amount used.

• Lower amounts tend to be more stimulating, similar to a strong cup of coffee. Users report increased focus, energy, and alertness.
• Higher amounts may provide relaxation and a sense of ease. Some report feeling more calm, uplifted, or relieved from daily stress.

Different types of kratom also influence the experience. For example, Maeng Da is considered fast-acting, while Sumatra strains are often described as milder and more gradual.

What does science say about kratom? Research is still scarce, but here are some potential applications:

• Combating stress and the blues. Animal studies show this plant has uplifting and stress-busting properties. Mice exhibited lower stress hormone levels after consuming mitragynine (the primary kratom alkaloid).
• Relieving physical discomfort. Kratom reduces people’s perception of aches and tension for several hours. This effect is comparable to opium and valuable to people with various health issues.
• Assisting withdrawal. A 2008 case study showed kratom reduced withdrawal intensity more than prescription drugs.

In-depth studies are yet to come. Meanwhile, kratom is relatively accessible and getting more popular by the day.

Kratom benefits

Kratom has gained popularity due to its diverse effects, various consumption methods, and potential to support overall well-being.

Many people enjoy incorporating this plant into their daily routines. Its effects typically last between 2–6 hours and may suit various scenarios.

Some users prefer smaller servings to support focus and motivation before activities such as social gatherings, hobbies, or exercise. Others may choose to incorporate it into their work or study sessions for an added boost in productivity.

Larger servings are often chosen to help with relaxation after a long day. Many find it useful for unwinding at home in the evenings or during leisurely weekend afternoons.

Kratom is available in multiple convenient forms for easy consumption. You can take capsules on the go, brew teas as part of your morning or evening ritual, or mix powders into your preferred beverages.

Because of its varied effects, kratom may suit different needs at different times of the day. Some people find a single strain useful for both energizing and relaxing properties, reducing the need to purchase multiple varieties.

What is ashwagandha?

Before comparing ashwagandha and kratom, let’s explore this well-known herbal supplement. What is it, how did it gain popularity, and why do wellness enthusiasts appreciate it?

Ashwagandha is an evergreen shrub native to India, the Middle East, and parts of Africa. Its botanical name is Withania somnifera, and it is also known as "Indian ginseng" or "winter cherry." The name derives from Sanskrit, meaning "smell of the horse," referencing both its distinct aroma and traditional associations with strength.

The shrub produces orange-red fruit and roots with a bitter, earthy taste. People have used both parts for centuries in various wellness traditions.

Notably, ashwagandha is a key herb in Ayurveda, a traditional Indian wellness system. It has been valued for its ability to support focus, energy, and relaxation. It is also considered a Rasayana, a substance believed to promote longevity and vitality.

Today, ashwagandha is classified as an adaptogen, meaning it may support the body's resilience to stress and help maintain balance.

Traditional use involved brewing ashwagandha root into tea. Today, it is available in various forms, including capsules, powders, and even infused into oils and creams.

What is ashwagandha used for?

People incorporate ashwagandha into their wellness routines for various reasons, including managing daily stress, promoting relaxation, and supporting overall well-being. Let’s explore what research suggests about its traditional use.

Some studies indicate that ashwagandha may have properties that support cognitive function and relaxation. Research into its effects is ongoing, with some findings based on preliminary studies.

Most studies have been conducted on animals or at the cellular level, so further research is needed to understand how this herb interacts with the human body. Here are some areas where ashwagandha has been studied:

• Managing stress levels: A 2000 study suggested that ashwagandha may influence cortisol levels, a hormone associated with stress response.

• Supporting sleep quality: Research suggests this plant may contribute to better rest for some individuals, possibly due to its calming properties.

• Comfort and relaxation: Some studies indicate that ashwagandha may influence certain pathways in the body that contribute to relaxation.

• Cognitive function: A 2017 study suggested that ashwagandha may play a role in supporting memory and information processing.

• Physical performance: A 2015 study in humans indicated that ashwagandha may have a role in supporting endurance and overall vitality.

While some of these studies show promising results, more research is necessary to fully understand how ashwagandha works and its potential applications. As always, individuals interested in incorporating ashwagandha into their routine should consider consulting a healthcare professional for personalized guidance.

In summary, ashwagandha continues to gain interest for its potential role in supporting overall wellness. Let’s explore why it has become a popular choice and how it might fit into different lifestyles.

Ashwagandha benefits

The above list of ashwagandha applications seems impressive, but it’s not uncommon. Many natural substances gain interest as research explores their properties. What makes this particular herb unique?

Ashwagandha has become a favorite due to its long history of use, accessibility, and versatility in various wellness routines.

Studies suggest ashwagandha is generally well-tolerated, with mild side effects such as stomach discomfort, drowsiness, or digestive issues that typically subside when use is discontinued.

Despite its widespread use, pregnant individuals and those taking medications should consult with a healthcare professional before incorporating it into their routine.

Ashwagandha is available in various forms, including supplements, powders, capsules, and teas, making it convenient to use. Many people experiment with different serving sizes and times of day to find what works best for them.

Its effects are gradual, often requiring consistent use over several weeks for noticeable results.

Ashwagandha and kratom similarities

Before comparing ashwagandha and kratom, let’s explore their similarities:

• Centuries of traditional use: Both plants have a long history in traditional wellness practices, where they were valued for their natural properties.

• Alkaloid-rich composition: Both contain alkaloids, which contribute to their unique characteristics and effects.

• Stress support: Many users turn to these plants as part of their relaxation and wellness routines.

• Distinct herbal flavors: Both have earthy, bitter notes, which some people appreciate in teas and other preparations.

• Convenient consumption methods: Available in powder and capsule form, both herbs are easy to incorporate into daily routines.

While these similarities exist, they don’t tell the full story. Let’s examine their key differences.

Ashwagandha vs. kratom

Although both are popular natural supplements, kratom and ashwagandha have distinct traits:

• Timeframe of effects: Kratom’s effects typically appear within 45 minutes and last for several hours, whereas ashwagandha’s benefits may take weeks of consistent use to become noticeable.

• Serving size variation: Ashwagandha is generally consumed in smaller servings, while kratom’s effects can vary based on strain and quantity.

• Strain variety: Ashwagandha is a single species with predictable properties, whereas kratom strains differ depending on the region and harvesting process, allowing for varied effects.

• Legal considerations: Ashwagandha is widely available, while kratom’s legal status varies by location. Always check local laws before purchasing.

Is it a good idea to take ashwagandha and kratom together?

The comparison above isn’t meant to help you choose one over the other—they serve different purposes and may complement each other.

Some people incorporate both into their routines, finding that ashwagandha’s long-term benefits pair well with kratom’s more immediate effects.

Before combining them, it’s best to try each separately to understand their individual influences. Start with a minimal serving and adjust as needed based on personal preference and experience.

Here’s why moderation is key:

• Some users find ashwagandha enhances their kratom experience, particularly when seeking relaxation.

• Overuse of either may lead to unwanted effects, such as increased drowsiness when taken in larger quantities.

• Individual responses vary, so a cautious approach is recommended.

Those considering long-term use should consult a healthcare professional before combining these supplements.

Ashwagandha and kratom: A powerful combination

Both plants have deep-rooted histories and remain popular today. Many users appreciate their unique qualities, whether taken individually or together as part of a wellness routine.

Ashwagandha is available at most health stores, and you can easily purchase it locally. Since Mitragyna speciosa is less regulated, buy quality-tested kratom from reputable online shops to reap its benefits and stay safe.