KAVA VS. KRATOM: COMPARING THE REALMS

Both herbs create a sense of well-being, and enthusiasts commonly use them interchangeably. They’re also widely known among wellness circles. What are their effects? Can you use them together?

What is kava?

Kava is a natural plant traditionally used by locals on the Pacific Islands for ceremonial and cultural purposes. The botanical is from the pepper family, and people typically mix its root with water to make a drink.

This beverage is known for its calming properties, making it a popular choice for those looking to unwind or relax. It may also help ease muscle tension or support a more restful mindset. Kava isn’t considered psychoactive and doesn’t produce the same kind of effects as alcohol or other substances.

The plant is available in various forms, including capsules, tablets, and liquid extracts. Kava holds cultural significance for many communities across the Pacific Islands.

What is kratom?

Kratom is a naturally occurring herb native to Southeast Asia. It’s part of the Rubiaceae family, which also includes coffee and gardenia.

People use the leaves of the kratom tree for their stimulating or calming effects, depending on the serving size. In Southeast Asia, locals have traditionally used the botanical to support energy, stamina, and focus.

Enthusiasts often chew the fresh leaves, take it in capsule form, or brew ground powder into tea.

Kratom and kava similarities

Reports suggest it’s difficult to identify kava and kratom in their raw plant form—and even harder once both are processed into powder.

Users who consume these herbs as tea often describe similar experiences over time.

According to some reports, kava or kratom may support relaxation, feelings of contentment, and a more balanced mindset.

What’s the difference between kava and kratom?

In our kava and kratom comparison, both may offer similar qualities, but kratom is often described as having a broader range of effects.

Though frequently used in similar ways, these botanicals are distinct. Here’s how they differ:

Origins

Kava and kratom are natural plant derivatives from different geographical and biological origins. The former is scientifically known as Piper methysticum, belonging to the pepper species of plants.

Kava is a small-sized tree that grows natively in the Pacific Islands, particularly in Vanuatu, Papua New Guinea, Fiji, and Tonga. The final product is derived from its root, but some think it’s an extract from the plant’s leaves.

Kratom, also known as Mitragyna speciosa, is a natural tropical evergreen tree native to Southeast Asia. The herb mainly grows in Malaysia, Thailand, and Myanmar, but it also thrives in other regions.

Mature kratom trees at their peak can grow to about 80+ feet tall. Like kava, people often take Mitragyna speciosa in powder form.

The local farmers harvest the leaves at different growth cycle stages to produce strains with different vein colors.

Active ingredients

 These two herbal supplements contain different active compounds that contribute to their unique characteristics.

Kratom capsules and other forms contain naturally occurring alkaloids, primarily mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine (7-OH). These compounds are known to interact with certain receptors in the body and are the most studied components of kratom leaves.

Kava, on the other hand, contains kavalactones—its primary active compounds. While there are several types of kavalactones, six are known to make up the majority of the plant’s profile.

The specific composition of these compounds can vary based on the variety of the herb, influenced by what’s known as its chemotype. Kava’s kavalactones are thought to interact with areas of the brain associated with mood and emotional response.

Unlike kratom’s alkaloids, kavalactones do not interact with opioid receptors and are not classified in the same category of compounds.

Effects

Does kava feel like kratom? The answer isn’t straightforward. These two natural plants influence the body and mind in different ways. While some users report overlapping experiences, the effects can vary widely between individuals.

Kava contains compounds known as kavapyrones, which are said to promote calming sensations. Some users report a sense of ease, contentment, or mild euphoria after use.

Kratom, depending on the variety and serving size, may be described as either energizing or relaxing. Users who consume lower amounts often report a sense of focus and clarity, while higher amounts are typically associated with more calming experiences.

Serving Considerations

Kava is commonly consumed in servings between 0.009–0.025 oz. It's often recommended to stay within the lower end of that range for regular use. Capsules may contain anywhere from 0.0035–0.0176 oz. per piece.

Kratom can be taken as powder, capsules, or tinctures. A serving of about 0.177 oz. is considered a starting point by many users. Those with more experience may use between 0.177–0.535 oz., depending on personal preference and tolerance.

It’s important to remember that serving size can vary based on factors such as body weight, metabolism, and frequency of use. Always start low and go slow, especially when trying a new product.

Possible Side effects

Kava has been the subject of ongoing discussions. While many people report positive experiences, there are also reports of temporary discomfort such as indigestion, fatigue, or skin irritation. These may occur with both occasional and frequent use.

With kratom, some users note that effects may begin within minutes and last for a few hours. While it’s commonly used for short-term purposes, regular use over time may be associated with challenges such as reduced appetite or digestive upset. Other reported side effects may include trouble sleeping, nausea, or skin discomfort.

As with any herbal product, responses vary from person to person. It’s best to consult a healthcare professional before using kratom or kava—especially if you’re taking medications or managing any existing health conditions.

Legal status

In the United States, kratom is legal in most states, though a few have enacted bans at the state or local level. These restrictions are often tied to concerns about unregulated products or the lack of comprehensive scientific research.

Advocacy groups like the American Kratom Association (AKA) work to support consumer access and promote safety standards within the industry. Their efforts include pushing for regulation through initiatives like the Kratom Consumer Protection Act, which encourages quality control and labeling requirements.

Before purchasing or using kratom, it’s important to check your local and state regulations, as laws can vary by region.

Kava is generally legal across the U.S. While some jurisdictions have raised concerns or proposed restrictions, no significant bans have been enacted to date. The herb remains widely available and is commonly used in wellness circles.

Can you use kava root and kratom together?

Some wellness enthusiasts wonder whether they can combine kava root with kratom-based products. Due to limited research on the interaction between the two, the answer remains uncertain.

Anecdotal reports vary—some users claim the combination works well for them, while others caution against mixing both due to the potential for strong effects.

Because both botanicals may influence the body and mind, it's essential to approach them responsibly. If you're considering trying them together, start with a small amount and monitor how your body responds. Always consult a healthcare professional before combining any herbal products.

The beneficial herb lowdown

Kava root and kratom leaf have been used for generations across different cultures for their unique properties and traditional applications.

At Kratom Country, you’ll find high-quality, lab-tested kratom products available in both powder and capsule form. If you're exploring natural botanicals as part of your wellness journey, these may be worth considering—just be sure to do so responsibly.

FAQs about kava and kratom

Do you still have questions about these popular herbs? Here are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions from wellness enthusiasts:

Are kava and kratom safe?

Kava and kratom are widely used, but like any botanical, they may cause side effects for some individuals. The key is to source your products from reputable vendors who offer lab-tested options. It's best to use them responsibly and be mindful of your own body’s response.

Can kava or kratom be habit-forming?

There are differing views on whether kava or kratom can lead to dependency. Some users report experiencing cravings or discomfort after stopping use, while others say they have no issues. Research is still ongoing, and no definitive conclusions have been reached.

Is kava better than kratom?

This comes down to personal preference and intended use. Kava is often associated with calming and relaxing effects, while kratom is commonly used for energy and focus. The experience may vary based on individual factors.

Is kava used to manage kratom withdrawal symptoms?

Some users have explored kava as a way to ease transitions from other botanicals, but scientific studies on this topic are limited. More research is needed to determine if kava plays a role in such applications.