We thought we’d examine the relative advantages of CBD and kratom because they’re both garnering a lot of attention.
CBD, a hemp-derived chemical, is probably familiar to you. It’s been the talk of the town in the alternative medicine world for a long time, and it’s earned a reputation as a natural way to treat a variety of ailments and symptoms.
But, in addition to hemp, there are a number of other herbs that are becoming increasingly popular due to their therapeutic benefits. In this post, we’ll look into kratom and see how it stacks up against CBD.
Some people believe kratom can be a good CBD alternative. Is this, however, truly accurate? They may appear to share some similar ground on the surface. As you learn more about them, it becomes clear that they are very different.
An introduction to CBD
CBD, or cannabidiol, is now widely available in a variety of products.
CBD is available in both classic forms such as tinctures and pills, as well as more innovative items such as CBD coffee. This compound’s primary function is to restore internal equilibrium by interacting with the body’s endocannabinoid system. CBD is unique in that it is not psychoactive, unlike THC, the major active element in psychoactive cannabis (also known as “marijuana”). CBD can help you boost your mood, manage with anxiety, and even support pain alleviation without causing you to lose control of your thoughts.
CBD has also been shown to have the ability to treat a variety of other critical conditions. Even traditional doctors are increasingly supporting the usage of cannabidiol as scientists perform more research.
What is kratom?
Kratom is a tree native to Southeast Asia that goes by the name “mitragyna speciosa.” Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, and Papua New Guinea are among the nations where it grows naturally. For thousands of years, people in these locations have consumed kratom. The leaves were chewed traditionally by locals for their stimulant-like qualities. Kratom has a long history of being used as an opium substitute and has recently gained popularity as a recreational substance.
Mitragynine and 7-Hydroxymitragynine are the major active components in the plant (7HMG). These two chemicals work by interacting with the opioid receptors in the body. The molecule mitragynine is assumed to be responsible for the medicinal effects, while 7HMG is supposed to be responsible for the psychedelic effects. Clinical research on kratom is still in its infancy. Kratom isn’t catching on like CBD because of a lack of study.
“Despite a vocal community of advocates and countless anecdotal testimonials of efficacy, these kratom-based therapy approaches have not been rigorously investigated as either safe or effective,” said Peter Grinspoon, M.D., a Harvard Medical School professor.
CBD vs. kratom: What’s the Difference?
CBD can be used for a variety of things. Anxiety, sleep difficulties, chronic pain, and inflammation are the most prevalent conditions for which it is prescribed.
Although many people use it to feel more relaxed and manage stress-related symptoms, it’s also gaining popularity in the fitness scene as a way to aid in recovery and pain management. Apart from its practical applications, CBD is being studied for its potential to cure more serious illnesses such as cancer, heart disease, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease, epilepsy, diabetes, and a variety of other conditions.
Kratom is mostly used to alleviate anxiety, pain, and opiate addiction. As the herb’s research appears to be in its early phases, no firm conclusions can be reached at this time.
Some of the touted advantages are likely true, based on user accounts and native peoples who have produced the herb for decades. Some people report it’s especially successful at breaking addictions to heavier opiates like heroin and oxycodone. More clinical trials are needed, however, before it can be acknowledged as a reliable treatment.
Related: Athletic Performance and CBD
CBD vs. Kratom: CBD and Kratom Side Effects
CBD is amazing not just because of its multiple benefits, but because CBD has few adverse effects. The versatile cannabinoid has been shown to be non-addictive and safe to eat in big amounts. There have been no reported CBD-related deaths to date. Nausea, dry mouth, and tiredness are some of the moderate side effects that users may encounter.
When we look at the adverse effects, though, Kratom starts to look a lot less enticing. Although it is marketed as an alternative to opiates, there is a risk of becoming addicted to kratom. Frequent use is generally discouraged since it increases the danger of addiction and exposes the consumer to other risks.
Vomiting, nausea, and constipation are some of the most typical kratom adverse effects. Seizures, psychosis, respiratory depression, liver toxicity, and elevated blood pressure are just a few of the more serious side effects that can occur as a result of kratom use. When all of these side effects are taken into account, the disadvantages may far outweigh the advantages.
CBD and kratom are both legal in moderation
The Drug Enforcement Administration was required to remove hemp-derived CBD from its list of prohibited medicines as a result of the 2018 Farm Bill. Industrial hemp with a THC value of 0.3 percent or less was formally authorised as an agricultural commodity rather than a restricted narcotic under the measure.
CBD is widely tolerated, and users are largely free of legal ramifications while using it, especially when it is extracted (CBD tinctures, gummies, capsules, etc). Misguided police actions against CBD users are exceedingly rare, and they are becoming increasingly rare.
The legality of kratom is a little less clear. Tennessee, Indiana, Alabama, Wisconsin, Vermont, and Washington, D.C. have all passed laws prohibiting the use of kratom. The DEA threatened to label kratom a schedule I substance in 2016. The Department of Health and Human Services recommended for a kratom prohibition in 2018.
That prohibition has yet to be implemented. This could be due in part to a major public outcry over the impending prohibition, which was sparked by kratom proponents. Even still, the administration hasn’t completely surrendered.
While we oppose the war on drugs, users should be informed that their access to this supplement could be revoked with little notice.
“Using something for pain or addiction that is about to become less available and less safe is generally not a good choice,” Grinspoon said.
Even the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued a statement warning of the dangers of kratom. In 2017, the FDA reported 36 deaths linked to kratom (FDA warns of ‘deadly risks’ of the herb kratom, citing 36 deaths). In 2018, a salmonella outbreak linked to kratom products spread across many states, affecting 199 people. The national outcry prompted a big recall and once again cast an unfavourable light on the plant, possibly leading to its prohibition on a larger scale.
Final Words
Just because a medicine is made from plants doesn’t mean it’s safe. To use them safely, consumers require study and education.
While some people equate kratom and CBD to herbal supplements, they’re not the same thing. CBD is a lot more well-known, with a lot of user testimonials and scientific evidence to back it up. It’s also exceedingly unlikely to have any negative consequences.
The United States may ban kratom before it gains mainstream adoption due to a lack of study and a growing list of issues. Without more research, consumer education, and greater quality control, kratom cannot be considered safe, according to Dr. Grinspoon. Although CBD has some similar difficulties, the possible effects are far more serious.
While we don’t believe natural chemicals should be illegal, consumers of kratom should be aware of the risk of addiction and other possibly hazardous side effects. While some of the hazards of kratom are due to drug prohibition and tainted goods rather than the plant itself, people should still be cautious before trying it.
