Both kratom and CBD have gone viral in popularity as natural supplements that are expected to have some wellness potential. Although they have some things in common (they are both of vegetable origin, etc.), they are essentially different compounds with different effects, mechanisms, and legality.
In this blog, we’ll discuss the main differences between kratom and CBD, disadvantages, possible side effects, and concerns of using CBD kratom products or mixing the two.
What Is Kratom and CBD?
1. Kratom
Kratom consists of an herb taken from the leaves of the tree called Mitragyna speciosa, indigenous to Southeast Asia. People of local origins have traditionally been chewing kratom leaves or making tea out of this substance as a source of energy, a painkiller, and a mood booster.
Kratom includes over 40 alkaloids, of which the most remarkable are mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine, which are known to attach to the opioid receptors in the brain.
The outcomes of using Kratom correspond to dose: in case of admission on small doses, stimulating effects are observed, and on large doses, a sedative and analgesic effect is characteristic. It is often applied in acute cases to improve mood or to cope with the ill effects of opioid withdrawal.
2. CBD (Cannabidiol)
CBD is a cannabinoid that is mainly obtained using the hemp plant, which is a type of cannabis, but with minimal amounts of the psychoactive substance- THC.
CBD binds with the endocannabinoid system (ECS) of the body to control arousal, rest, mood, and pain. In contrast to THC, CBD is not intoxicating, and it is not psychoactive (gives a high).
CBD is popular in cases of chronic pain, anxiety, inflammation, and sleeping disorders. It comes as oils, capsules, edible oils, and creams.
How Do Kratom and CBD Work?
Kratom’s Mechanism of Action
Kratom alkaloids bind mostly to the opioid receptors (mu, delta, and kappa) and their effects are similar to those of opioids, though milder in general. Moreover, the drug also has stimulant and mood-lifting effects, assisted by influencing the adrenergic, serotonin, and dopamine receptors.
Its stimulant qualities are dose-dependent and also strain-dependent, where white veined kratom is energizing and red-veined strains are relaxing.
CBD’s Mechanism of Action
CBD influences the endocannabinoid system by stimulating CB1 and CB2 receptors, indirectly raising the levels of the body’s natural cannabinoids such as anandamide. It also affects serotonin receptors (5-HT1A), which might be the reason why it helps eliminate anxiety and antidepressant features.
When compared with kratom, CBD does not directly link with the opioid receptors, and it does not stimulate or sedate.
Key Differences Between Kratom and CBD
| Feature | Kratom | CBD |
| Source | Mitragyna speciosa tree (Southeast Asia) | Hemp or cannabis plant |
| Primary Active Compounds | Mitragynine, 7-hydroxymitragynine (alkaloids) | Cannabidiol (cannabinoid) |
| Mechanism | Opioid, adrenergic, and serotonin receptors | Endocannabinoid system, serotonin receptors |
| Effects | Dose-dependent stimulant or sedative, pain relief | Relaxation, anti-inflammatory, and anxiety relief |
| Psychoactivity | Mildly intoxicating at high doses | Non-intoxicating |
| Legal Status (US) | Legal but unregulated in many states | Legal federally if hemp-derived, regulated |
| Uses | Acute pain, energy, opioid withdrawal support | Chronic pain, anxiety, inflammation, and sleep |
Benefits of Kratom and CBD
Kratom Benefits
- Acute Pain Relief: Kratom’s opioid receptor activity makes it effective for short-term pain management.
- Energy and Focus: At low doses, kratom can enhance alertness and concentration.
- Mood Enhancement: Supports relaxation and reduces anxiety at moderate doses.
- Opioid Withdrawal Aid: Some use kratom to ease withdrawal symptoms, though more research is needed.
CBD Benefits
- Chronic Pain and Inflammation: CBD’s anti-inflammatory properties help manage long-term pain conditions.
- Anxiety and Depression: CBD modulates serotonin receptors, contributing to mood stabilization.
- Sleep Improvement: Many users find CBD helpful for insomnia and sleep quality.
- Neuroprotection: Emerging research suggests potential benefits for brain health.
Can You Take CBD and Kratom Together?
Many users wonder if combining CBD and kratom is safe or beneficial. While there is limited scientific research on their combined use, some anecdotal reports suggest potential complementary effects:
- Synergistic Pain Relief: The combination of the anti-inflammatory effect of CBD and the effect on the opioid receptors by kratom can offer a better pain control effect.
- Balanced Energy and Relaxation: Low-dose kratom stimulation release can be counteracted by the sedative effects associated with CBD.
- Reduced Side Effects: It may be possible that CBD hampers particular antagonistic effects of kratom, such as anxiety or jitters.
Caution: Both drugs influence the cytochrome P450 system in the liver, which metabolizes most medicines. The combination may change the way your body processes drugs or any of the two compounds to make them more likely to have side effects or be poisonous.
Recommendation: Before taking CBD and kratom together, speak to a healthcare professional, particularly when you are taking certain medicines or have certain diseases.
Side Effects and Safety Considerations
Kratom Side Effects
- Nausea, constipation, dry mouth
- Dizziness or sedation at high doses
- Potential for dependence and withdrawal with long-term use
- Possible interactions with other sedatives or opioids
CBD Side Effects
- Fatigue or drowsiness in some users
- Dry mouth
- Diarrhea at high doses
- Potential drug interactions, especially with blood thinners
Regulatory Status and Quality Control
Both kratom and CBD are widely accepted and approved by the FDA in most of their applications, and neither of the markets is well-regulated. This may cause inconsistency in the quality of the product, potency, and purity.
Never buy brands that are not reputable and cannot offer third-party laboratory testing for safety and consistency.
Which One Is Right for You?
Choosing between kratom and CBD depends on your specific needs and health goals:
- For acute pain or energy: Kratom may be more effective.
- For chronic pain, inflammation, anxiety, or sleep: CBD is often preferred.
- For opioid withdrawal support: Kratom has anecdotal use, but medical supervision is essential.
- For minimal psychoactivity and safety: CBD is generally safer and less intoxicating.
Final Thoughts
Although kratom and CBD seem to have great potential as pain relievers, mood lifters, and general wellness products, their origins, mechanisms, effects, and safety are significantly different. Learning about these differences can assist you in the process of making an informed choice regarding your lifestyle and health-based supplement.
Taking CBD kratom products together or combining the substances is likely to have complementary effects, but is subject to caution or overall professional advice.
The development of research will remain essential to keep people aware of and able to make safe decisions using high-quality products with the potential advantages of using these natural botanicals.
More Readings:
