Kratom and Kava: What You Need to Know
If you’re unfamiliar with botanicals, you may be surprised at the number of plants that can impact our physical and emotional health. Two such plants that have gained popularity in recent years are Kratom and Kava.
While both are derived from herbal substances, they have very different effects and histories. In this article, we’ll explore what Kratom and Kava are, how they work, the different types available, and how they are consumed.
What is Kratom? Kratom, also known as Mitragyna speciosa, is a tropical evergreen tree native to Southeast Asia.
It is a distant relative of the coffee plant and has been used for centuries in traditional medicine practices. Kratom’s leaves contain psychoactive compounds called alkaloids, with the most notable being Mitragynine and 7-hydroxy Mitragynine.
These alkaloids interact with opioid receptors in the brain, providing sedation, pleasure, and pain relief. Kratom has both opioid and stimulant properties that vary depending on the dosage and strain.
Different Types of Kratom
Kratom leaves come in three main varieties: Red Vein, White Vein, and Green Vein. The vein color refers to the color of the leaf vein, not the leaf itself.
Red Vein is the most popular type of Kratom and has a higher potency for pain relief and sedation. White Vein is known for its potent stimulant effects and is often used for increased energy and focus.
Lastly, Green Vein is a balance between the two, providing moderate pain relief and stimulation. Is Kratom Addictive?
Like opioids, Kratom can lead to addiction, dependence, and tolerance. Long-term use of Kratom can result in withdrawal symptoms, including seizures, hallucinations, and muscle aches, making it difficult for users to quit.
Those with a history of opioid addiction should use caution when taking Kratom and consult with a healthcare provider. What is Kava?
Kava, or Piper methysticum, is a plant belonging to the pepper family and primarily cultivated in the Western Pacific Islands. Kava has been used traditionally for its medicinal and therapeutic properties, as well as in religious ceremonies.
The roots of the kava plant are used in supplements and beverages. Kava’s primary active ingredients are kavalactones, which produce psychoactive effects.
How Does Kava Work? Kava’s kavalactones exhibit muscle relaxant and depressant properties that interact with the GABA receptors in the brain.
It enhances the release of dopamine, providing a euphoric and stress-relieving effect. Kava has a sedative effect that promotes relaxation and calmness, making it a popular choice for those looking for natural stress relief.
Different Types of Kava
There are three main types of Kava: Heady Kava, Heavy Kava, and Balanced Kava. Heady Kava has a higher concentration of kavalactones that provide a mood-boosting and energizing effect.
Heavy Kava has a stronger sedative effect, making it ideal for those with insomnia or anxiety. Balanced Kava is a mix of both heady and heavy Kava, providing an overall sense of calmness and relaxation.
Kava vs. Kratom: How Are They Consumed?
Kratom is primarily consumed as a powder or pill, but it can also be brewed as a tea, tincture, or extract. Some users also chew the leaves directly, following traditional methods.
Kava, on the other hand, is commonly consumed as a beverage. Kava can be purchased in powdered form, mixed with water, and strained to create a traditional kava drink.
Kava supplements, such as pills and tinctures, are also available for those who prefer not to drink the beverage.
In Conclusion
Kratom and Kava are unique botanicals that have gained popularity in recent years. While both have their benefits, it is crucial to understand the different types available, how they work, and the potential side effects.
It is strongly recommended that you speak with a healthcare professional before using any botanical substance, especially if you are taking medication or have pre-existing health conditions. While Kratom and Kava can provide many benefits, it is essential to use them responsibly.
Risks and Side Effects of Kratom and Kava
As with any substance, Kratom and Kava can pose risks and side effects. While these botanicals have gained popularity for their therapeutic benefits, it is essential to consider the potential adverse effects before using them.
In this article, we will explore the risks and side effects of Kratom and Kava, including potential interactions, dosage concerns, and the opinions of advocates in both communities.
Kratom Risks
Kratom can be addictive when used excessively or for long periods of time. Dependence and abuse of Kratom can lead to withdrawal symptoms such as anxiety, irritability, and nausea.
There have also been reports of hallucinations and seizures linked to Kratom use. The drug also has a tenuous legal status, which can lead to unregulated products that pose safety concerns for users.
Long-term Kratom use has been linked to liver damage, which is a severe health concern that can result in long-term complications.
Kava Risks
Unlike Kratom, Kava has a more severe safety profile. There have been reports of liver failure and death associated with chronic Kava use.
Raw kava root contains compounds that are toxic to liver cells, which can cause inflammation and, in some cases, lead to severe liver damage. While rare cases of liver failure have been reported, studies suggest that consuming high amounts of Kava over a long period of time may damage the liver.
Therefore, regular use of Kava should be monitored closely, and users should follow recommended dosages to avoid potential long-term health consequences. Kratom vs.
Kava: Potential Side Effects
Both Kratom and Kava can cause adverse effects, especially when used in high doses or consumed for long periods. At low to moderate doses, both botanicals tend to have stimulating effects and provide a gentle buzz.
However, when consumed in higher quantities, they can cause sedation and relaxation effects. Side effects of Kratom include nausea, itching, sweating, dry mouth, impaired coordination, diarrhea, headache, and drowsiness.
In contrast, Kava’s side effects include headache, drowsiness, reduced appetite, and impaired coordination. In addition, consuming Kratom or Kava with alcohol or other drugs can be harmful.
Combining these substances can increase the risk of negative side effects and interactions, leading to potential health concerns. Users must monitor their use of these botanicals and avoid consuming them with other drugs, including alcohol.
Kratom vs. Kava: What do Advocates Say?
Advocates for Kratom and Kava argue that these substances can provide a safe alternative to prescription opioids and anti-anxiety medications. Many users have found Kratom to be helpful in managing pain, fibromyalgia, and PTSD.
Advocates also claim that Kratom can be used responsibly in moderation and is often only addictive in excessive amounts or with long-term use. In contrast, Kava advocates claim that Kava has a long history of use in traditional cultures and is not addictive.
Studies suggest that Kava can help alleviate anxiety and stress naturally. They argue that the cases of liver damage have been rare and often linked to the ingestion of commercial-grade products.
Can Sober People Consume Kratom or Kava? While Kratom and Kava are legal in many parts of the world, there are concerns about using them while in sobriety.
Some argue that consuming these substances can be a slippery slope towards relapse, as they can alter mood and provide an escape. Additionally, there is concern about liver damage and potential addiction with long-term use.
However, proponents of Kratom and Kava argue that these botanicals can be used responsibly in moderation, and short-term use does not pose significant risks to overall health.
In Conclusion
Both Kratom and Kava offer potential benefits for those seeking natural alternatives to prescription opioids and anxiety medications. However, users must recognize the potential risks and side effects of using these botanicals.
It is essential to avoid consuming these substances with alcohol or other drugs and to follow recommended dosages to avoid adverse effects in the short and long-term. It is always recommended that you speak with a healthcare professional before using any substance, especially if you have a history of addiction or liver damage.
While Kratom and Kava can provide many benefits, it is essential to use them responsibly.