Kratom vs CBD: A Real Look at Benefits and Key Differences

As natural wellness options like kratom vs CBD grow in popularity worldwide, these botanicals each have a following of dedicated users. While both are derived from plants and used to enhance health and well-being, this is where their similarities end.

How do they compare in terms of benefits, effects, and safety profiles? Real Botanicals is here to help you understand their differences. 

Let’s take a closer look at the kratom vs CBD debate and learn more about each of these plant-based wellness substances so you can make informed decisions about using them.

What Are the Key Differences Between Kratom and CBD?

Kratom and CBD have both been used for centuries as a way to feel better, but in different ways. While one (kratom) is known more for its effects on energy, mood, and relief, the other (CBD) is used to provide support to various bodily systems. Shortly put:

• Kratom is often used for a boost (+ relief). 

• Kratom product effects are often felt quickly.

• CBD is often used for balance (+ relief).

• CBD is considered to continually build up without general immediate effects.

Through different pathways in the body, each of these botanical substances affects the way we feel and how our body operates. These differences shape the way we can use the two for our well-being. 

1. Pain Management: Neither kratom nor CBD is currently approved for pain management, but both botanicals have large followings of users who testify to their efficacy.

2. Mental Effects: Both CBD and Kratom are celebrated for their effects on how you feel. Kratom has a slight edge here, providing both relaxation and energy, depending on which strain and how much you take. This makes Kratom more versatile for those looking to improve mental health, mood, or energy levels.
   

3. Dose Dependency Differs: Kratom is more dose-dependent than CBD, meaning its effects change depending on dosage. CBD is more consistent with higher doses providing higher benefit, albeit with possible sleepiness at doses that are too high.

4. Side Effects & Addiction Potential Differ: Both kratom and CBD have some side effects that can be worse at higher doses. Side effects like dry mouth and nausea can correlate to sensitivity, dosage, and product quality. Kratom itself may have a higher addiction potential when misused. 

* The FDA has approved Epidiolex, a prescription CBD product, to treat seizure frequency in children suffering from Dravet Syndrome. Promising studies have also demonstrated its use for managing TSC (Tuberous Sclerosis Complex).

Benefits of CBD 

For centuries, people have turned to cannabis to help what ails them, from sleeplessness to stress and pain. It wasn’t until the discovery of CBD (cannabidiol) in cannabis that we had a clearer picture of how it works. This non-psychotropic cannabinoid is thought to be responsible for much of cannabis’ therapeutic potential. By sticking to federal limits on THC content (less than 0.3%), CBD’s true potential rises to the forefront in wellness care. 

What Are the Potential Benefits of CBD Oil?

Here are some of the most riveting benefits of using CBD, which help explain its wide-scale popularity. 

• Discomfort Relief: Precise connections between CBD and discomfort relief are an unfolding field of study worldwide. CBD’s interaction with the body’s endocannabinoid receptors and its potential as a relaxant agent in the body are cited, though a more direct mechanism may be uncovered via ongoing research. Pain management is one of the most common reasons people turn to CBD for help.   

• Better Mental Health: Many CBD users report improvements in their mood and cognitive function. While the exact mechanisms in the body to explain these results are mysterious, stress relief and better mood regulation are popular reasons people adopt a regular CBD regimen.

• Neuroprotection: CBD is generally thought to have neuroprotective properties and potential anxiolytic effects. Animal studies suggest CBD may promote hippocampal neurogenesis, potentially aiding recovery from stress-related damage and improving resilience.

• Addiction Support: Some research also supports the evidence that using CBD may be beneficial in helping to lower tobacco and heroin addiction. 

How Do People Use CBD Products?

A wide variety of CBD products are now available on the market. CBD can be used as-needed (like during stressful situations or on a particularly restless night) or as a twice-daily CBD regimen. Regular use may deliver more potential therapeutic support. You may find CBD in tincture drops or oils, capsules, edibles, vapes, and in topical lotions and creams.

What Are the Benefits of Kratom?

The use of kratom (a member of the kratom and coffee family) may help people live more comfortably and with a more positive outlook. Kratom use began centuries ago with field hands who needed a boost to get through long days of manual labor. Modern users enjoy kratom as a way to relax, unwind, or get things done. Kratom’s versatility is one of its biggest selling points in the wellness world.

What Are the Potential Benefits of Kratom Use?

Kratom may be beneficial for improving overall health and well-being, thanks to the alkaloid content, which provides the highly sought-after effects. Here are some potential benefits of kratom use:   

• Discomfort Relief: For centuries, people have been using kratom. Modern kratom users attest to its help and celebrate having a non-opioid option for general discomfort. Kratom’s action at the opioid receptors in the brain may explain these analgesic effects.

• Opioid Withdrawal Support: Kratom’s active ingredients (mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine) interact with the opioid receptors in the brain, much like opioids do. This is why people turn to kratom as a way to reduce the severity and duration of opioid withdrawal. It’s recommended to do this with medical supervision.

• Mental Health: Kratom may improve mood by reducing lingering signs of stress and easing mental distress symptoms. While these aren't proven uses through medical studies, many kratom users attest to kratom improving their mood and mental fortitude.

• Immune-boosting Properties: Kratom may inhibit the release of pro-inflammatory mediators; this may provide anti-inflammatory responses in the body, combined with immune-boosting perks. 

Did You Know—Different types of kratom produce different effects? 

How Does Kratom Work Compared to CBD?

Kratom’s two main active components—mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine—along with other minor alkaloids, interact with your body’s opioid receptors found in the brain and body. Because of its strong affinity for these receptors, the alkaloids may deliver similar analgesic effects, providing relief.

But that’s not all kratom does. It also gives a boost to stamina and mood, promoting pleasant feelings in the user with just one kratom capsules dose, or a bit of the powder in your coffee.

This dual interaction in the body is unique to kratom, and what makes it so versatile for your well-being. At low doses, kratom products can be stimulating, while at higher doses, the effects are more relaxing and potentially analgesic.  

CBD interacts with different receptors, notably the CB1 and CB2 receptors in the body’s endocannabinoid system. This system is responsible for the regulation of physiological responses such as sleep, mood, pain perception, stress, and appetite. 

Are There Legal Considerations for Kratom and CBD?

Both CBD and kratom have faced legal battles and public misconceptions. The legal status of kratom includes bans in some areas, and is largely governed in the US at the state level. Some states have already passed Kratom Consumer Protection Acts to govern kratom use and sales in their state.

CBD is a bit more mainstream due to its well-known history, larger body of medical studies, and an evolving public perception trending supportive. 

Depending on where you live, you may have to be a certain age to buy kratom or CBD.

How to Choose Between CBD and Kratom Products

After understanding the basic differences and common similarities between kratom and CBD, it is important to consider several factors when deciding what's best for your health and wellness. Before selecting your products, consider your preferences, needs, lifestyle, and the risk profile for both CBD and kratom. 

What Should You Consider When Deciding Between Kratom vs CBD?

In comparing kratom vs CBD for your own life, consider these three important factors: 

• Reason for Use: Are you looking for discomfort relief? Mental wellness support? Do you want a versatile product like kratom that you can use for both? Or do you want a low-key CBD regimen? Either kratom or CBD may align best with your needs, so do give this some thought.  

• Risk & Safe Tolerance: For managing everyday stress, discomfort, and sleep troubles, CBD is generally well-tolerated with no risk of dependence. However, kratom may offer more notable relief while boosting your natural energy levels. 

• Personal Sensitivities: If you take medications or supplements, speak with your primary doctor before beginning a kratom or CBD regimen. If you're sensitive to plant materials, begin with a low dosage and monitor any side effects you may have. 

Try our 7-hydroxymitragynine products for sale for a powerful boost of concentrated, beneficial properties associated with all of our kratom products! 

Can I Use Kratom and CBD Together?

You may not have to choose between CBD vs kratom. Certain botanicals seem to pair well with kratom. For example, some kratom comes with kava—like these kratom and kava shots— in the formula to give a boost to social ease and relaxation. Many users attest to complementary effects when they take kratom and CBD together.

Both botanicals may help provide balance and relief in different yet symbiotic ways. You may experience a positive and calm mood, generalized support for your discomforts (both stress and physical discomfort), and more restorative sleep. 

When you understand how each of them works, you can design a well-being regimen that works for you. If you want to learn more about kratom vs CBD, stay tuned to Real Botanicals' blog and visit our kratom shop for lab-tested, clean kratom options you'll love using!

Frequently Asked Questions About Kratom and CBD

What is Kratom CBD?

Kratom and CBD are two different plant-based supplements often confused due to their overlapping effects. While some effects are similar, they are achieved by different chemical compositions and pathways in the body.  Both are versatile, natural options to support your health and wellness. 

Is Kratom Safe to Use Compared to CBD?

Kratom is a traditional product that has been used for centuries to enhance energy levels, improve focus, and relieve stress. Though it is a more potent compound as compared to CBD, with moderate doses and responsible methods, kratom can help while minimizing side effects. Product quality is one of the most important factors in the safety and efficacy of any botanical product. Real Botanicals uses Chromapure extraction to ensure a safe and high-end kratom product.

What Should I Know Before Trying Kratom or CBD?

Here are some tips to consider before trying either kratom or CBD: 

• Only purchase from reputable vendors who lab-test all products for safety and purity. 

• Speak with your medical doctor who knows your medications and current health issues before trying CBD or kratom (to avoid side effects or complications). 

• Check the legal status of kratom vs CBD in your state. 

• Always start with a low dose and work your way up, as needed.

What is the difference between Kratom and CBD?

There are many differences between kratom and CBD. For instance, powdered kratom leaves are sourced from Mitragyna speciosa, while CBD is extracted from the cannabis (hemp) plant. They work differently, too. Kratom interacts with the opioid receptors of the brain while CBD works with your body's endocannabinoid system. Dosage for each will vary by product and user, but the effects of kratom may feel more substantial due to higher psychoactive effects. Both kratom and CBD come in a variety of strengths and product forms for versatile use. Depending on where you live, there may be legal differences between the two, as well. 

Learn more about proper kratom dosage here