While kratom vs kava may look similar and be sold alongside each other at kava bars and online, it is important for buyers and consumers to know the difference between these two plants. While they both can promote a sense of relaxation, they have different pharmacological effects on the body and mind.

Kratom, scientifically known as Mitragyna speciosa, is a tropical evergreen plant that has been used in Southeast Asia for centuries as a pain reliever, mood enhancer and social lubricant. Its leaves can be chewed, brewed into tea or sucked on as a powder or extract. When consumed at a low dosage, kratom is stimulating and can boost energy levels, increase motivation, decrease anxiety and promote sleep. At higher dosages, kratom acts as a sedative to ease stress and pain and can produce feelings of euphoria and enlightenment.

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Kava, on the other hand, is a root-based herbal remedy that is commonly taken as a drink. Kava root has a number of calming effects including decreased anxiety, improved sleep and reduced muscle tension. It also has mild analgesic properties and can help promote drowsiness during sleep.

Kava’s alkaloids interact with the limbic system in the brain, which is the same mechanism that addictive drugs use to provide their effects. This makes kava less likely to cause addiction than kratom, which can be very addictive when taken in high doses.