Kratom vs CBD: The Differences between These 2 “Grey Area” Products
When you embark on researching about health effects of products like Kratom and CBD, most likely you are wondering what the difference between them is. This post sets the record straight by revealing in a clear manner the difference between these two plant-based products.
Origins
CBD oil is derived from a hemp plant, which is usually abundantly found in countries like Central China and several parts across Mediterranean Europe. On the other hand, Kratom is extracted from a tropical tree that belongs to the coffee family. The tree is most commonly found in South East Asia and especially in countries like Indonesia, Thailand, Malaysia, Papua New Guinea, and Myanmar.
- Active Ingredients
CBD (or cannabidiol) is a health-promoting substance commonly present in the hemp plant, and it’s the main active ingredient in the CBD oil products. It works primarily to create a perfect equilibrium in our body by interacting with the endocannabinoid system. The good majority of CBD oil products are full-spectrum, which simply means that they are composed of all compounds present in the hemp plant. All these compounds work synergistically in enhancing their effects. They include the following:
- CBDA (or cannabidiol acid): Turns to CBD when it’s exposed to sunlight and heat.
- CBG (cannabigerol): A cannabinoid same as CBD. It is present in trace amounts in the hemp plant. Currently, it’s being studied for its antifungal and antibacterial properties.
- CBN (cannabinol): A non-intoxicating cannabinoid that is found in small amounts in the hemp plant. It has so far shown the potential of having anti-inflammatory properties.
- THC (or tetrahydrocannabinol): Famed for its intoxicating properties, especially in marijuana. But it is present in very small percentages of hemp-based products.
Kratom has two main active ingredients, 7-hydroxy mitragynine, and mitragynine, both of which interact with the opioid receptors of the body similar to codeine and morphine.
- Mitragynine: This is the main active ingredient in Kratom.
- 7-hydroxy mitragynine: Has intoxicating properties.
Compared to CBD, Kratom is less researched, something that continues to limit its reach. But the increasing public research about the plant is undoubted. This is sure to open doors in the future for more studies. Early evidence points to the fact that it may help in relaxation and boost immune function.
Also, Kratom shows potential to treat opioid addiction and is also believed to contain antidepressant properties. To buy quality Kratom, you may want to check out KratomCrazy.com. Besides the quality, they do offer also the best prices.
Side Effects
CBD is deemed extremely safe and non-addictive. However, its most common side effect has been found to be mild drowsiness.
While Kratom may be effective in relaxation and feelings of well-being, using it regularly can cause addiction. According to a 2014 study, a large majority of users exhibited signs of addiction after using it for more than 6 months. In addition, Kratom may also cause itching, dry mouth, loss of appetite and nausea.
Legality
Hemp products are not classified under Schedule I drugs anymore, according to the 2018 Farm bill. This means that hemp-derived products, CBD oil included, can be produced, sold and used in all 50 states in the United States without any legal problems.
Kratom is only legal in some US states. In fact, the DEA had in 2006 showed the intention of classifying Kratom as a schedule I drug, thereby outlawing its use along with other drugs like heroin and marijuana. But due to public outrage, the drug remains legal in certain states.
Bottom-line
While there is no doubt that both CBD and Kratom are herbal remedies, the truth is that they are quite different. CBD provides much better therapeutic remedy due to its wide usage and lack of side effects. Kratom is effective in relaxation and helps keep focus. However, it’s associated with greater risk, more so when used excessively. So, CBD is much more accessible and continues to be a popular holistic medication and even used for more mainstream applications